Aftercare
Looking after the work
Draft — pending approval
Every instruction on this page is placeholder guidance and must be replaced with the wording Rory and Sanctum Tattoo Co. actually use, including their bandage, washing, and product preferences.
The first day
Leave the covering on for as long as Rory tells you to. That window depends on the bandage used and the size of the piece, so follow his instruction rather than a general rule.
When you remove it, wash your hands first, then clean the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry with something clean. Do not scrub it.
The first two weeks
Keep the area clean and let it breathe. Apply only a thin layer of whatever aftercare product Rory recommends — more is not better, and a thick layer can trap moisture.
Do not pick, scratch, or peel flaking skin. Avoid soaking the tattoo: no baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, or ocean until it has fully closed.
Keep it out of direct sun while it heals, and avoid tight clothing or gear that rubs against it.
Long term
Sun is the main thing that ages a tattoo. Once healed, sunscreen on the area will keep heavy blackwork and black-and-grey rendering looking closer to how it went in.
Large pieces and dense blackwork can settle unevenly. If something looks patchy after it has fully healed, message Rory rather than assuming it needs to stay that way.
When to get help
Contact a medical professional if you have spreading redness, increasing pain, swelling that worsens after the first few days, discharge, a fever, or anything else that feels wrong. Do not wait to hear back from the studio first.
This is general information, not medical advice. Follow the instructions provided by Rory and the studio. Seek medical care for urgent or concerning symptoms.
Questions about your tattoo
Aftercare for a small filler and a full back piece are not the same conversation. For anything specific to your project, contact Rory directly for current details.