Aftercare

Your artist’s instructions come first

Follow the aftercare instructions Keoni gives you at your session. If anything here conflicts with them, his instructions win.

[Keoni to confirm his first-day routine, timing and the products he recommends.]

Initial aftercare (day 1)

Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry.

Apply a thin layer of your recommended aftercare ointment.

Days 2 to 14

Wash the tattoo 2 to 3 times daily with mild soap, then apply a thin layer of aftercare product after washing.

Avoid soaking the tattoo: no swimming, baths or hot tubs. Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds.

Do not pick or scratch at scabs or flaking skin. Wear loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo.

Healing time

The surface of a tattoo typically heals in 2 to 4 weeks. Complete healing takes 2 to 3 months.

Recommended products

Fragrance-free, antibacterial soap (such as Dr. Bronner’s or Dove Sensitive).

Aftercare ointment (such as A&D ointment or Aquaphor).

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer after the first week.

SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, once fully healed.

Products to avoid

Scented lotions or soaps.

Petroleum-based products after the initial healing phase.

Alcohol-based products or witch hazel.

Neosporin or similar antibiotic ointments, which can cause a reaction.

Long-term care

Once healed, always apply SPF 30+ when the tattoo is exposed to the sun.

Keep the skin moisturized regularly and avoid harsh chemicals directly on the tattoo.

Touch-ups may be needed over time. [Keoni to confirm his touch-up terms.]

Warning signs

Excessive redness that spreads beyond the tattoo.

Skin around the tattoo that is warm or hot to the touch.

Swelling that increases rather than decreases.

Pus or a foul odor from the tattoo.

Fever or chills.

If you notice any of these, contact Keoni and seek medical attention.