How to Prepare for Your Tattoo

  1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Rest up!

  2. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: No substances before or during your session.

  3. Eat Beforehand: A good meal helps you stay comfortable.

  4. Bring Snacks & Water: Essential for longer sessions.

  5. Dress Smart: Wear comfy, dark-colored clothes you don’t mind staining.

  6. No Fake Tan or Sunburns: Keep your skin in its natural state.

  7. Be On Time: Check the address in your email and plan to arrive early.

  8. Discuss Numbing Cream Ahead: Let me know if you plan to use it (details below).

During Your Session

  • Use the restroom as needed.

  • Communicate! Your comfort and well-being are my priority.

  • Privacy screens are available for tattoos in intimate areas.

What to Bring

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Day 1

Ideally leave your tattoo wrapped for 2-3 hours. The clingfilm acts as a covering to keep dirt and bacteria out of it for the first couple of hours. This also allows time for the tattoo to stop oozing or bleeding. Remove the bandage with clean washed hands. The tattoo will be covered in blood, plasma (clear part of blood) and extra ink. Your skin might also be sore and warm to the touch. This is normal. Wash with warm water and fragrance free soap (or without soap is great too). Pat dry with clean towel, soft cloth or air dry. Apply a thin consistent layer of tattoo aftercare cream or oil. Rub it in, it shouldn’t be clumped up on your skin. You want to make sure you’re not using anything too heavy like pawpaw or vaseline. Aftercare intended for tattoos are available online or at the shop. Tattoo Natural alternatives like coconut oil or jojoba oil work well too. Do not rewrap your tattoo. Wear loose clothes to bed and if you don’t want to get your sheets dirty put down a towel or two to protect them. You might also be feeling under the weather after a big session this is normal, take it easy for the next day or two.Keep your tattoo wrapped for 2–3 hours.

Day 2

Wash your tattoo again and apply tattoo aftercare ointment. If you need to repeat this step again then do so. Tattoos vary in size and shading so some need more care than others. Apply aftercare ointment twice a day or as needed for the following 2 weeks. Only do so with clean hands.

Days 5–13

The timing of this varies. Almost all tattoos go through what I like to call “the ugly phase”, but no stress this is temporary. Your tattoo will be pretty dry at this point. A thin layer of flaking skin or light scabbing will form. Sometimes they are raised too. Do not pick at them (not even a little bit) otherwise it will result in scarring or drop out. Your tattoo might also feel itchy. Apply cream to relieve the itch or gently pat the tattoo. If your tattoo is still red and swollen after a week or if you think the tattoo is infected please contact me immediately by email graceaudreytattoo@gmail.com or message me on instagram @graceaudreytattoo.

Day 14+

Your tattoo should be in the final stages of healing. Most of the flakes and scabs should be gone. The tattoo will still be shiny and it will stay this way for 2-4 months. Personally I feel like mine take months to feel like they’re part of my skin. Don’t stress just keep it moisturised if it’s looking dry. Now that the tattoo is not an open wound you can apply sunscreen but make sure you keep it out of the sun. If it needs a touch up send me a photo. I always offer free touch ups to my clients.

Healing Reminders

Think of your new tattoo as an open wound. You just went through pain to get it and spent money so you don’t want to damage it. I want you to care for it so it can look it’s best for years to come.

  • Keep it clean

  • Don’t pick or scratch

  • Avoid scented products (lotions and soaps)

  • Avoid covering with sunscreen until healed

  • Avoid exposure to the sun

  • Avoid tight clothing

  • Don’t go swimming or sun baking for 3 weeks (Showering is okay)

  • Don’t soak in water for 2 - 4 weeks (spa or baths)

  • Only touch with clean hands

  • Avoid getting it sweaty (no gym or sports for the first week)

  • Clean it asap if it gets sweaty or dirty

  • Keep pets away from it in at least the first week

  • Don’t apply too much cream (a thin layer is enough for each application)

  • Don’t dry your tattoo with a dirty or shared towel (you can also with paper towel)

    If any of this is confusing or if you have any questions feel free to contact me at any point.

Booking Your Appointment

  • Online Bookings: Click Here.

  • In-Person Consultations: Available for large/complex designs (e.g., sleeves, chest, or back pieces).

  • Deposits: Required to secure your spot. Non-refundable if you cancel within a week of your appointment.

    I also post on my instagram for last minute spots.

Tattoo Costs

  • Shop Minimum: $200.

  • Hourly Rate: $200 for large pieces (e.g., back, sleeve, chest).

  • Smaller Pieces: Priced individually based on size, detail, and placement.

FAQs

Can I Use Numbing Cream?

Yes, but we must discuss it beforehand. Only use reputable brands and apply it correctly. Check this link to purchase in advance.

Can I Bring a Friend?

Yes, but please let me know ahead of time.