Your lips may appear swollen, red, or bruised. To minimize this, put some ice in a clean ziplock bag and ice them for a good 15 mins, couple times a day to reduce swelling. Advil will also help. Swelling will subside within 48 hours.

Gently dab and remove the lymph fluid every minute for the next 2 hours on the first day after you leave the studio.

An ointment is provided and we ask that you regularly apply a thin layer with clean fingers or Q-tips to keep the tattoo moisturized, but please do not suffocate the tattoo. The skin needs to be able to “breathe” and properly heal.

Blot with damp gauze or napkin in the morning.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not apply pressure or excessive rubbing as it will cause unnecessary removal of scabs.

Moisturize with ointment provided, again you will only need a small amount so that the skin has room to breathe and recover/regenerate its cells to properly heal.

Remember if you have cold sores to continue your anti-viral medication 3-5 days after.

Do not scratch or pick the scabs that form; this can lead to scarring or loss of ink. When properly cared for, scabs fall off on their own.

Drink liquids with a straw for a week.

Avoid spicy or soupy foods for 2 days.

Do not use any Retin-A, Glycolic Acids, AHA/BHA or Neosporin on the tattooed area during or after healing.

Please avoid swimming or submerging the area in water for long periods of time during the first week. Proper aftercare will ensure the formation of thin scabs has more color retention. Keep out of the sun for 7 days after tattoo appointment.