161 Worthen St. Lowell MA 01854   (978)441-9292

Lowell Ink

Lowell Ink Custom Tattoo Studio

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) How long does it take for the tattoo to heal?
Healing time varies from one person to the next. Generally, your new tattoo should heal in 7-10 days.


2) My new tattoo is itching and/or peeling! is that normal?
Yes. DO NOT scratch your new tattoo, and DO NOT pick at scabs.


3) I just got a tattoo. can I go swimming or tanning?
NO.You should avoid sunburn, as well as contact with salt and chlorine (pool water), hot tubs, saunas and steam baths while your new tattoo is healing.


4) It's been over a week, but my tattoo doesn't seem to heal!
Are you still using Antibiotic ointment? After 3 days, you should switch to a fragrance free lotion. Also, don't over-apply. Lotion should be applied only 2-4 times a day.

General Aftercare Instructions:

  1. Treat your new tattoo as an open wound. Keep it clean. Do not touch healing tattoos with dirty hands.
    Before cleaning the tattooed area wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
  2. Carefully remove the gauze bandage and tape. If the gauze sticks, use a tiny bit of warm water to remove.
    DO NOT RIP OFF.
  3. Using mild soap and cool water, gently and carefully cleanse the area and pat it dry. Do not rub with wash cloth or towel.
  4. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin Neomycin-Polymixin) on the tattoo.
  5. Repeat cleansing and application of ointment 2-4 times a day, for 3 days.
  6. After the first 3 days, switch to a fragrance free lotion (such as Curel or Lubriderm).
  7. Healing usually takes 7-10 days, depending on the size of the tattoo. As it heals, expect peeling like sun burnt skin. DO NOT PICK AT SCABS! Avoid sunburn, salt and chlorine (pool water), hot tubs, saunas and steam baths while the tattoo is healing. Itching is to be expected. DO NOT SCRATCH THE TATTOO!

Consult a Healthcare Provider for...

  • unexpected redness, tenderness, or swelling of the site of the tattoo
  • Rash
  • Unexpected drainage of/from the site of the tattoo
  • Fever within 24 hours of the tattoo