Piercing Aftercare

We’ve provided these helpful aftercare instructions to ensure the health of your piercing. Healing times may vary greatly from person to person though, in most cases, a well maintained piercing will feel and appear healed within about 4 weeks.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly prior to cleaning or touching your piercing for any reason.

  • Using mild (fragrance-free, alcohol-free) soap, gently lather around the piercing.

  • Rinse area thoroughly to remove all traces of soap from the piercing.

  • Use saline rinse 2 times daily during healing on the front and back of your piercing.

  • Refrain from unnecessary handling of the piercing.

  • For any questions, concerns, or continued care, reach out to us online, or walk-in to the shop.

  • When in doubt, wash and spray twice a day!

Tattoo Aftercare

We’ve provided these helpful aftercare instructions to ensure the health of your tattoo. Healing normally occurs within 1 to 2 weeks. Following these tattoo aftercare instructions will help to ensure its vibrance and quality as it heals. Please avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.

  • Following these tattoo aftercare instructions will help to ensure its vibrance and quality as it heals.

  • Wash hands thoroughly prior to touching your tattoo for any reason.

  • Pat dry with a clean cloth or towel.

  • Apply a small amount of ointment to tattoo for the first 4 days.

  • Continue this regiment until the tattoo is fully under the skin.

  • For any questions, concerns, or continued care, reach out to us online, or walk-in to the shop.

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions in Denver: How to Heal Your New Tattoo the Right Way

At The Hidden Hand  Tattoo & Piercing in  Denver, Colorado, we want your tattoo to look just as vibrant years from now as the day you get it. Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for healing, preventing infection, and keeping your new body art looking sharp.

Here’s a complete guide to tattoo aftercare instructions for Denver clients—including step-by-step care, healing expectations, and what to avoid during the process.


Why Tattoo Aftercare Is Important

Tattoos are a permanent investment in your body and your self-expression. While the procedure is safe in professional shops like ours, your skin is still healing from a wound. Without proper care, you risk infection, fading, or scarring. By following these steps, you’ll give your tattoo the best chance to heal beautifully.


Step 1: Removing Your Bandage

  • Keep your bandage on for about one hour after your session.

  • Remove the bandage carefully—do not re-bandage your tattoo.

  • Once removed, your tattoo is exposed, so proper cleaning is the next essential step.


Step 2: Cleaning Your Tattoo

Cleanliness is the foundation of tattoo healing:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

  • Gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.

  • Rinse well, then pat dry with a clean paper towel. Never rub.

  • Repeat this process 2–4 times daily for the first 3–5 days, or until the tattoo begins peeling.


Step 3: Ointment and Moisturizing

  • Apply a thin layer of ointment after cleaning and rub it in well.

  • Continue for the first 3–5 days. Never share ointment with anyone else.

  • Once your tattoo begins peeling, switch to unscented, dye-free lotion instead of ointment.

  • Apply lotion 1–3 times daily for about two weeks to keep your tattoo moisturized.


What to Avoid During Tattoo Healing

The Colorado climate is already dry, which can make tattoos heal slower without proper care. In addition to lotion, avoid these common mistakes:

  • 🚫 No hot tubs, pools, or lakes. Water can fade your tattoo and introduce bacteria.

  • 🚫 Don’t pick or scratch. Tattoos will peel, itch, and sometimes scab. Picking can cause infections or light spots in the healed design.

  • 🚫 Avoid direct sun exposure. Once healed, use sunscreen to protect your tattoo year-round in Denver’s high altitude.

  • 🚫 Dirty linens. Always use clean sheets and clothing during the healing process to avoid bacteria.


How Long Does a Tattoo Take to Heal?

The average healing time for a tattoo is 2–4 weeks, depending on the person and placement. Tattoos on areas with more movement or friction may take a little longer. Patience is key—your skin needs time to fully recover.


Watch for Warning Signs

If you notice excessive redness, swelling, itching, pain, or signs of infection, contact your artist at Neon Falcon Tattoo and consult your physician. A professional opinion is always best to ensure your body art heals properly.


Tattoo Aftercare Checklist

✔ Remove bandage after one hour (do not re-bandage).
✔ Wash with antibacterial soap and water, pat dry.
✔ Apply ointment for the first few days, then switch to lotion.
✔ Avoid pools, lakes, and hot tubs during healing.
✔ Don’t pick, scratch, or share ointments.
✔ Use clean linens and clothing.
✔ Apply sunscreen once healed to protect your tattoo long-term.


Keep Your Tattoo Looking Great for Years

At Neon Falcon Tattoo in Lakewood, just outside Denver, we believe a great tattoo isn’t just about the art—it’s about how well you care for it afterward. By following these tattoo aftercare instructions in Denver, you’ll ensure your new ink heals cleanly and stays vibrant.

📍 Find us at 1695 Wadsworth Blvd, Suite D & E, Lakewood, CO 80214
📞 Call us at (303) 502-3010 if you have questions about your tattoo aftercare or to schedule your next session.

Take good care of your tattoo today, and it will look incredible for years to come.

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