1. The most important rule in taking care of your new tattoo is to use common sense.

2. Remove your bandage in 6 to 12 hours. Wash tattoo thoroughly with mild soap and cold water. DO NOT RE-BANDAGE!

3. Your new tattoo should form a scab that should not be disturbed until it is fully healed. In order to keep scabbing to a minimum you should apply a very small amount of lubriderm lotion, or pure cocoa butter on your tattoo 3 or 4 times daily. Rub lotion in thoroughly. Use sparingly as you must allow the skin to breathe.

4. Shower normally, but do not soak your new tattoo in a tub for at least 2 weeks. Gently blot tattoo dry with a towel instead of rubbing.

5. Itching will occur after several days. This is a normal sign of healing. The scab will fall off by itself usually in 7 to 10 days although occasionally healing may take up to 2 weeks. It is important that you DO NOT SCRATCH OR PICK YOUR NEW TATTOO!

6. No swimming or sunbathing (or tanning) for at least 2 weeks. NO EXCEPTIONS! Pools contain chlorine, lakes carry bacteria, and bright sunlight will fade your new tattoo.

Repeated heavy sun exposure over a period of years may effect the overall brightness of your tattoo. We suggest that you apply sunscreen to your tattoo to protect it from heavy sunlight.