Prep Instructions

  1. DRESS FOR THE DAY:

    Put on clean, comfortable clothing that can be easily moved or removed to give your artist access to the area of your body that will be tattooed. Wear pasties if you are concerned with staying covered. Clothing can get stained with ink near the tattoo. Don't wear tight clothing that is going to rub against your fresh tattoo, this will be very uncomfortable for you and could damage the tattoo or slow the healing process.

  2. FEELING SICK:

    If you are feeling ill reschedule as soon as possible, come in well rested and relaxed.

  3. MOISTUREIZE:

    Try to moisturize your skin daily for at least a week leading up to your tattoo. DO NOT moisturize the day of the tattoo.

  4. NO DRINKING:

    Do not drink within the 24 hours leading up to your tattoo. Stay well hydrated by drink water before your tattoo.

  5. EATING:

    Eat before you get to your appointment. You can bring in a few snacks and drinks to consume during breaks in the tattoo session.

  6. BANDAGE:

    Plan on leaving with a bandage on, do not remove it before your artist tells you to.

Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the healing and longevity of your tattoo. Follow these instructions to keep your tattoo looking vibrant and to prevent any complications:

  1. LEAVE THE BANDAGE ON FOR A FEW HOURS:

    Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo with a sterile bandage or plastic wrap. Leave it on for about two hours to protect the tattoo from bacteria and irritation.

  2. GENTLY WASH:

    After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattooed area with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Make sure you wash your hands prior to washing the tattooed area. Avoid scrubbing the tattoo. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. DO NOT USE A CLOTH TOWEL!

  3. APPLY A THIN LAYER OF AFTERCARE OINTMENT:

    Using clean hands, apply a thin layer off unseated lotion or tattoo branded balm to the tattooed area. Avoid over-applying; a little goes a long way.

  4. THE FIRST NIGHT:

    The first night before bed make sure to wash your tattoo with clean hands and DO NOT put any type of ointment on the tattoo. Wrap your tattoo with cling film/plastic wrap. THIS IS FOR THE FIRST NIGHT ONLY!

  5. KEEP IT CLEAN AND MOISTURIZED:

    Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day and apply the aftercare ointment or lotion.

  6. AVOID PICKING AND SCRATCHING:

    Resist the urge to scratch or pick at it. Scratching can cause damage. Instead, lightly tap or pat the itchy area with clean hands.

  7. AVOID DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND SWIMMING:

    Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade the colors and damage the skin. If going outside, cover your new tattoo. Avoid swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, and excessive sweating until your tattoo is fully healed.

  8. ANIMALS:

    Avoid direct and indirect contact with animals and your tattoo it is fully healed.

  9. TOUCH UP POLICY:

    Touch up work is performed at the discretion of the tattoo artist. We offer on free touch up within a 6 month period. You must come in to schedule a touch up.

  10. HOW TO REPORT A GRIEVANCE:

    Please report any issues to the artist or the shop manager so we can try to resolve the issue first.

DEHEC OFFICE HEALTH LICENSING

2600 Bull St.

Columbia, S.C. 29201

(803) 545-4370