If you have been wrapped with black pads and cohesive bandage wrap:
Keep the bandage on for the time period I recommend at your appointment (this varies)
When it’s time to remove the bandage, wash your hands, remove the wrap, and wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. (Dial gold is my best recommendation)
Pat your tattoo dry with a paper towel
Do not re-wrap the tattoo, just let her breathe!
Keep the tattoo clean, and moisturize with an unscented/unmedicated white lotion AS NEEDED. (Usually it takes 3-4 days until the tattoo starts to dry out enough to need a thin layer of lotion)
Please note that your tattoo may peel like a sunburn or even have slight scabbing. Do your best not to pick or peel at it, as this could cause poor healing. Plastic-wrapped ice packs can help with the discomfort!
Keep the tattoo out of the sun for 3 weeks, and avoid submerging it in water (i.e., baths, pools)
Remember that your body knows how to heal wounds, so less is more. Just keep the tattoo clean and slightly moisturized, and you should be golden.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions during the healing process. The internet has a lot of information about aftercare, only some of which is helpful.