Tattoo artists have had to recommend a variety of products available from local drug stores. These products were intended to prevent cuts, burns, scrapes, and abrasions from becoming infected and not for the healing of new tattoos. The majority of these products contain petroleum or lanolin which, when applied to a new tattoo, can clog skin pores and actually retard the body's healing process. There is also the possibility of allergic reactions to these products, and application to a new tattoo can cause skin reactions leading to loss of ink and permanent damage to a tattoo.

In the last few years, cosmetic and pharmaceutical aftercare products have been developed for the tattoo world. These products are safe, efficient, and dermatologically tested. Most tattoo artists recommend and sell them. A more natural way of healing is the use of the aloe plant, a very popular tattoo healing method in southern united states. It promotes healing without any unnatural chemicals, keeps the tattoo from drying up (a very important thing to avoid) and the lack of oil in the aloe helps the skin retain ink.

New tattoos are wounds which must be looked after properly. Immediately after completing the tattoo, most tattooists will cover the area to keep out dirt and keep the tattoo from oozing into clothes; sometimes the area is wrapped in clingfilm, paper towels, or gauze. We recommend leaving the covering on for up to an hour or until the bleeding stops, and then gently wash the area. Japanese people commonly soak the tattoo in hot water to clean it.

A tattoo may bleed a bit at first but it will stop within a couple of hours. Most artists recommend the tattoo be kept bandaged for at least an hour. If the covering sticks to the skin, soak the area with cold water until the covering loosens, then remove carefully.

Once the tattoo is exposed, wash it carefully in cold water, gently applying antibacterial soap with fingers (never use a cloth) to remove all surface blood. Rinse with cold water, pat dry with a clean towel, and air-dry for 15 minutes. Then, gently and sparingly apply a thin layer of COCOA BUTTER. Repeat 3 or 4 times a day for approx. 7 days.

After 5 to 14 days, the tattoo may start to peel and scab. DO NOT pick or peel the skin away. Let it fall off naturally during washing. Fresh skin will soon replace the dead skin. Colours may fade during the process, but will return when healing is completed.

Cocoa butter helps to keep your tattoos from drying and the skin areas soft and moist. Always apply sparingly. Too much prevents the skin/tattoo from breathing, and can cause leaching of the colours. If this happens, discontinue use, wash the tattoo, pat dry, and consult your tattoo artist at your earliest convenience.

After a few weeks, all scabbing should be gone, but the area may still be sensitive. Continue regular cleaning for proper aftercare of your tattoo.