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Aftercare Instrcutions

Proper healing is part of the art. Follow these simple steps to keep your tattoo looking clean, sharp, and long-lasting

A NOTE FROM GEORGE

First, thank you for trusting me with your idea, your story, and your skin.Your tattoo isn’t just art — it’s something deeply personal, and I want it to heal perfectly so it stays beautiful for years to come.Tattooing is always a shared process: I focus on the craftsmanship and precision, and you take care of it afterward.Together, we make sure your piece heals clean, stays vibrant, and reflects exactly what we envisioned.Now that your session is complete, here’s how to care for your new tattoo.

DAY 1 — THE FIRST 24 HOURS
The first day is the most important part of healing.
 

  1. Remove the wrap when you get home.
    Do not keep the film or bandage on for long periods. Once removed, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm (not hot) water and mild, fragrance-free or antibacterial soap.

  2. Wash it several times within the first 24 hours.
    Gently clean it 2–3 times throughout the day to remove plasma or residue. Always use clean hands and pat dry with a soft towel or paper towel — never rub.

  3. Do not apply any ointment during the first day.
    Let the tattoo breathe naturally. Avoid touching it, and make sure nothing (clothes, pets, furniture) rubs against it for the first few hours. The skin needs to form its first protective layer on its own.

DAY 2 AND BEYOND — THE HEALING PHASE
From day 2 onward, your tattoo begins its healing journey.
 

  1. Start applying ointment.
    Apply a very thin layer of ointment 2–3 times a day — morning, mid-day, and before bed — for about two weeks.
    The goal is to keep the skin flexible and protected, not soaked or shiny.
    Recommended ointments: Aquaphor, Eucerin, Tattoo Goo, or Hustle Butter.

  2. Every skin heals differently.
    If your skin tends to dry quickly, you can apply the ointment more often — as long as it’s still just a thin layer.
    Too much moisture can slow healing or cause irritation.

  3. Keep your hands clean. Always.
    Remember, your tattoo is essentially an open wound. Wash your hands every time before applying ointment or touching the area.
    You wouldn’t clean a wound with dirty hands — the same rule applies here.

  4. No picking or scratching.
    It’s normal for your tattoo to flake or lightly peel as new skin forms. Never pick or peel those flakes — it can pull out ink and affect the final result.

  5. Avoid soaking or sweating heavily.
    Stay out of pools, rivers, lakes, jacuzzis, or the ocean. Avoid heavy workouts or tight clothing that causes friction for at least 10 days.

PRO NOTES & HEALING TIME

  • Hydration matters: Drink plenty of water; well-hydrated skin heals faster.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can fade ink and cause irritation. Once fully healed, use SPF 50+ sunscreen.

  • How long does a tattoo take to heal?

LONG-TERM CARE
Once your tattoo is healed:

  • Keep it moisturized with fragrance-free lotion.

  • Protect it from the sun — UV is the #1 reason tattoos fade over time.

  • Avoid harsh exfoliants or chemical peels on the area.
    With the right care, your tattoo will stay rich and detailed for years.

PRO NOTES & HEALING TIME

  • Hydration matters: Drink plenty of water; well-hydrated skin heals faster.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can fade ink and cause irritation. Once fully healed, use SPF 50+ sunscreen.

  • How long does a tattoo take to heal?
    On the surface, your tattoo takes about 2–3 weeks to heal — but it takes several months for the deeper layers of skin to fully regenerate. During that time, keep moisturizing and protecting it.

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If you ever notice excessive redness, swelling, or anything unusual — or if you’re just not sure whether something looks right — get in touch with me.You can always reach me through the Contact Form on my website.

PRO NOTES & HEALING TIME

  • Hydration matters: Drink plenty of water; well-hydrated skin heals faster.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can fade ink and cause irritation. Once fully healed, use SPF 50+ sunscreen.

  • How long does a tattoo take to heal?
    On the surface, your tattoo takes about 2–3 weeks to heal — but it takes several months for the deeper layers of skin to fully regenerate. During that time, keep moisturizing and protecting it.

​

Numbing Instructions

Numbing cream is not a one-size-fits-all solution!

DISCLAIMER
Numbing cream is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
I generally don’t recommend using it for “easier” areas like the arms or legs, since those spots are usually quite manageable without it.
The main reason is that I can’t verify the ingredients or quality of every product. Some creams contain chemicals that may irritate the skin or interfere with how tattoo pigment settles.
If you do choose to use one, follow the steps below carefully and let me know before your appointment so I can prepare the skin properly and ensure the best results.

WHEN TO APPLY
For numbing cream to work effectively, it must be applied about 1.5 hours before your appointment.
If applied too late, it may not activate fully — if left on too long, it can cause irritation or skin sensitivity.
The total contact time (including wrapping) should not exceed two hours.

STEP 1 - CLEAN THE SKIN
Take a shower or wash the tattoo area with glycerin or antibacterial soap.
Avoid scented or oily body washes — they can block absorption.
Pat the area dry gently with a clean towel.

STEP 2 - PREP THE SKIN
After drying, wipe the area with rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad.
Rub until the skin turns slightly pink — this opens the pores and helps absorption.
Apply a generous but even layer of numbing cream, pressing it lightly into the skin.
Do not rub it in completely — you should still see a thin layer sitting on the surface.

STEP 3 - WRAP AND WAIT
Cover the area with cling film (plastic wrap) to prevent drying and to keep the cream warm.
Keep the wrap on no longer than two hours total — extended exposure may cause redness or mild chemical burns.
When you arrive, I’ll remove the wrap, clean the skin, and prepare it for your tattoo.

WHAT TO EXPECT
Numbing creams reduce discomfort, but they don’t remove it entirely.
You may still feel vibration, pressure, or slight irritation.
The numbing effect typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on your skin type and the cream used.
It will gradually fade as your skin’s natural response returns — that’s completely normal.

🚫 WHEN NOT TO USE NUMBING CREAM
Avoid using numbing cream if:

  • You have allergies to lidocaine, prilocaine, or similar anesthetics.

  • The tattoo covers a large area (overuse can affect blood flow).

  • The skin is damaged, sunburned, or broken.

  • You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have heart or blood pressure issues (unless cleared by a doctor).

If you notice redness, itching, or burning after application, remove the cream immediately and wash the area with mild soap and cool water.

❌ COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

  • Applying too late (less than 1 hour before the session).

  • Leaving it on longer than two hours.

  • Using too much product — a thick layer can make the skin slippery.

  • Using cheap or unverified creams from unknown websites.

  • Not washing your hands afterward (avoid contact with your eyes or mouth).

  • Failing to test a small area of skin the day before use.


💊 RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
For best and safest results, use professional-grade numbing creams with 5% lidocaine.
Some trusted options:

  • Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream

  • Tattoo Numbing Cream Co.

  • Numb 27 (my top recommendation)

Always read labels carefully and avoid unknown or unbranded products.

💡 PRO NOTES

  • Every skin type reacts differently — dry or thicker skin may take longer to absorb.

  • If you have sensitive skin, test a small spot the day before.

  • Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying.

  • If your skin starts feeling irritated or hot while wrapped, remove the wrap early and wash the area immediately.

  • Let me know if you’ve used numbing cream — it helps me monitor your skin and adjust my prep process if needed.


💬 BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Keep the wrap on until you arrive.
Don’t remove it early (the cream will dry out) and don’t keep it on past two hours.
I’ll clean the area before we begin tattooing.

💬 IF YOU'RE UNSURE
If you’re uncertain about using numbing cream, or you’re not sure how your skin will react, please reach out through the Contact Form before your session.
I’ll gladly help you decide what’s best for your skin and the placement of your tattoo.

Are you #thirsty for ink?

Location

Main Street, South Shopping Village, 7500 Memorial Pkwy SW #129, Huntsville, AL 35802

Hours

Mon-Wed OFF

Thu-Sun 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm

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