Aftercare
make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching your new tattoo.
after removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo in lukewarm water with antibacterial soap (unscented is preferable). rinse with cold water to close pores and to help prevent “weep”
pat dry (do not rub) with a clean paper towel. avoid cloth towels if possible because they may harbor bacteria. Allow your tattoo to air dry completely.
when dry, apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor® or another unmedicated aftercare product. note - if your tattoo looks shiny or greasy, then too much product has been used. (it should be just enough to hydrate your skin and keep your tattoo from becoming dry and cracking.)
repeat this process daily or if made dirty
after 3 days of steps 1-3, you can switch to unscented lotion
As Your Tattoo Heals …
If you are worried that your new hand poked tattoo looks a little gray or faded in the first few days of healing, have no fear! Hand poked tattoos darken once fully healed (after about two weeks)
THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR
do not allow your new tattoo to soak in water (this includes baths, swimming pools, the river, etc.)
avoid picking at or scratching your new tattoo.
try to wear soft, breathable fabrics, and avoid tight-fitting clothing that could rub and irritate your new tattoo.
finally, be sure to keep your new tattoo protected from the sun, especially while it’s healing, but also afterwards to avoid fading.