Leave the bandage on your tattoo for 12 hours. Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with A&D ointment or petroleum jelly and wrap it with plastic wrap or a non-stick pad. While the bandage may feel a bit slimy and uncomfortable, leaving it on overnight protects it from contact with clothing and bedding that can cause irritation or infection.
Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and warm water. Peel off the bandage and wash your tattoo with the same antibacterial soap, using only your fingertips. Never scrub your tattoo with a washcloth, which can lead to ink loss.
Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Bath towels can harbor bacteria. Use a fresh paper towel every time you wash your tattoo.
Cover your tattoo with a thin layer of A&D ointment or a tattoo healing ointment purchased from your artist. Reapply the ointment if your tattoo starts to feel dry, but do not use so much that your skin feels sticky.
Switch to unscented lotion after three days. Continue using lotion on your tattoo until the healing is complete.