Self Care & Whole Body Healing
Self care and positive body habits are cornerstones of our wellbeing
We believe that the process of healing involves caring for the body beyond the direct site of the tattoo.
We have found that while the pain can be mitigated during the tattoo process (see our FAQ),
healing a tattoo starts before the client sits in the chair.
Getting a tattoo is a stressful event for the body’s systems.
Before getting tattooed we recommend considering your lifestyle and events surrounding your appointment time.
Events such as sporting events, stressful life events, injury or illness can impact the length and ease of your healing process.
Simple and easy habits can greatly improve your healing and even the condition your skin comes to us in, resulting in more beautiful and long-lasting imagery and art.
We have found that in the weeks leading up to our own tattoos,
ensuring that we are feeding and watering our bodies inside and out is the key to the best experiences.
We recommend observing healthy and whole food and water consumption habits as much as possible but especially on the day of your appointment.
We have some basic do’s and don’ts below for before and after your visit with us.
We hope that our experience can help you keep your beautiful canvas and art in it’s best condition for as long as possible!
Pre
Please do not use heavy exfoliating products on the site of your tattoo for 5 days prior to your appointment,
your regular washing routine should be just fine. Please use a rich moisturizer daily leading up to and the day of your appointment.
Please take care to protect your skin from sun exposure, we cannot safely work on sun-damaged skin.
Please wear clothes you are comfortable in and that allow the artist comfortable access to your tattoo site.
Please avoid any numbing products you haven’t specifically spoken to our artists about.
If you have questions about less-painful tattooing please reach out! Getting a good nights rest,
staying hydrated and well fed will make your tattoo experience more comfortable.
We encourage you to bring snacks and drinks and have a small fridge and microwave for your convenience.
A private smoking area is available for your convenience.
Post
We use a breathable, waterproof bandage that we apply at the end of your session to cover your new tattoo.
Please keep the bandage in place for 3-5 days.
You may shower normally with the bandage in place but avoid submerging the bandaged area in water such as bathtubs, hot tubs or other swimming.
Please avoid sun exposure while the bandage is on. To remove it, gently pull a corner up and away from the skin at a slight angle.
Once removed please wash your tattoo once with a mild unscented soap and water.
Apply a rich unscented moisturizer or aftercare ointment to your tattoo 2-3 times daily for 3-4 weeks.
Once your bandage is removed you may continue to shower as usual but please carefully avoid scented or exfoliating products on your tattoo for at least a week after removing the bandage.
Avoid submerging the tattoo in water such as bathtubs, hot tubs, and other swimming for 3-4 additional weeks, or until the skin is no longer peeling.
Sun damage is the number one factor in poorly aged tattoos. Please avoid sun exposure on your new tattoo completely for at least 2 weeks, thereafter apply spf 50+ when going outside even when covered with clothing or shade.
Proper protection and care will extend the life of your tattoo indefinitely. These practices are the result of the many years of experience our artists have helping clients heal the art they create. Ultimately, you know your body best, and should use products and methods that feel right for you.