Aftercare makes all the difference

Tattoo Aftercare

  • Step 1: Cover

    Wear bandage/wrap overnight and remove in the morning. Should it be stuck to any surface of the body, it can sometimes be easier to remove it in the shower where it won't effect the surface of the skin.

    Step 2: Clean

    Wash tattooed area with an unscented, antibacterial, liquid, hand soap. While I do recommend Gold Dial, there are plenty of functional options in the hottest possible water.

    Step 4: Dry

    Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or newly laundered towel/washcloth. Do not wipe it across the surface as this can cause irritation to the tattooed area.

    Step 5: Frequency

    Clean once every morning until peeling begins. When you experience your new tattoo is dirty: repeat steps 2 and 3.

    Step 6: Peeling Begins

    Within 3-6 days your new tattoo should begin to peel. This is a positive sign for healing!

    Do not pick or scratch at your tattoo during this time! It is a crucial time in the healing process and you should be aware during this time.

    Step 8: Time

    It should still take approximately 2-4 weeks for your tattoo to heal. Even after the initial peel, remember to treat it gingerly for this time period.

    Precautions:

    It is important to remember that your new tattoo is still healing and can be effected negatively by various things. Pet hair/dander/saliva, dust, smoke, standing bodies of water (bath tubs, hot tubs, pools, ocean, etc.) and other environmental contagions can cause complications in healing and should be avoided.

    If you have questions regarding what should/should not be avoided, or regarding anything related to healing, please reach out here.

  • Surface healing typically takes approximately 2.5–4 weeks.

    During this time, some flaking, dryness, and mild sensitivity are normal.

    Once surface healing is complete, you may begin regular use of:

    • A high-quality moisturizer

    • Broad-spectrum sunscreen

    Consistent hydration and sun protection are essential for preserving contrast, saturation, and long-term clarity.

  • To ensure the cleanest possible heal, please avoid:

    • Pet dander (sleeping with animals, direct contact with fur)

    • Standing or untreated water (baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans)

    • Prolonged submersion of any kind

    • Excess sun exposure

    • Environmental contaminants, including:

      • Dirt or dust

      • Gym equipment contacting the tattoo

      • Tight or abrasive clothing over the area

  • Josaline provides care packages for all clients after tattoo sessions. These packages include everything you need to properly heal your tattoos including:

    • Soap

    • Moisturizer

    • Extra Bandages (especially for traveling clients)

    • Contact Information

    • Small Candies for Sugar

    • Stickers! (When Available)

  • If you’re looking for a potential touch-up of your tattoo, please reach out via email at:

    📩Info@GreenTattooing.com

    Josaline will discuss what you’re looking to touch up, as well as potential options for scheduling and pricing (if any).

  • Healing looks different for every body.

    If at any point you have questions, concerns, or simply want reassurance, you’re always welcome to reach out.

    📩 info@greentattooing.com

Josaline Green specializes in heavy blackwork, abstract and cyber tattoos. She currently works out of Darkwater Ink in Berkeley, California in the San Francisco Bay Area. She also services Oakland, CA and occasionally travels to do guest spots. Especially in Fort Collins, CO and the Denver Area, as well as Salem, MA.