Grade A Tattoos
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Everything you need to know about your tattoo or piercing — from aftercare and healing to allergic reactions, our locations, and how to reach our team. Your answers are right here.
How to care for your new tattoo
Tattoo Aftercare
Your Tattoo Is an Investment — Let's Protect It
At Grade A Tattoos, every piece we create is a collaboration between artist and client. Our artists pour their skill and passion into your tattoo — and proper aftercare is how you protect that work for a lifetime. A well-cared-for tattoo heals faster, retains sharper lines, holds more vibrant color, and stays beautiful for decades.
We take aftercare seriously because we've seen the difference it makes. Over 25 years and 200,000+ tattoos, we've refined our aftercare approach based on real healing outcomes. Every client leaves our shop with clear, personalized aftercare instructions from their artist — because no two tattoos heal exactly the same way.
The questions below cover the most common aftercare concerns our clients have. Whether this is your first tattoo or your fiftieth, this is the information you need to heal right. For the full step-by-step timeline from Day 1 through complete healing, check out our detailed Tattoo Aftercare Guide.
Common questions
How long should I leave the bandage on after getting my tattoo?
Leave the bandage on for 2–4 hours after your session, or as specifically directed by your artist. Some artists use adhesive film wraps (like Saniderm or Tegaderm) that should stay on for 24–72 hours. Always follow your individual artist's instructions — they may adjust based on the size and placement of your tattoo.
How do I wash my new tattoo for the first time?
Wash your hands thoroughly first. Then gently remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap (like Dial Gold or Dr. Bronner's unscented). Use your fingertips — never a washcloth or sponge. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Never rub or use cloth towels, which can harbor bacteria.
What moisturizer should I use on my healing tattoo?
Apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturizer such as Lubriderm, Eucerin, Aveeno, or Aquaphor (healing ointment, not petroleum jelly). Your artist may recommend a specific product — always defer to their guidance. Apply 2–3 times daily after washing. Less is more — a thick layer can suffocate the skin and slow healing.
My tattoo is peeling and flaking — is that normal?
Absolutely. Peeling and flaking typically begins around day 4–7 and can last up to two weeks. This is a completely normal part of the healing process. Do NOT pick, peel, or scratch the flaking skin. Let it fall off naturally. The tattoo may look cloudy or dull during this phase — the color and clarity will return once the new skin fully forms underneath.
How long does a tattoo take to fully heal?
The outer layer of skin typically heals within 2–3 weeks. However, the deeper layers of skin take 4–6 weeks to fully heal. During this entire period, continue to moisturize, avoid sun exposure, and refrain from submerging the tattoo in water (no pools, baths, hot tubs, or ocean). After healing, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect your tattoo from UV damage.
Can I work out after getting a tattoo?
We recommend avoiding intense exercise for the first 48 hours. Sweat, friction from clothing, and stretching of the skin can irritate a fresh tattoo and increase infection risk. After 48 hours, light exercise is okay — just keep the tattoo clean and dry afterward. Avoid activities like swimming and heavy lifting that directly stress the tattooed area until fully healed.
Do you offer touch-ups if my tattoo doesn't heal perfectly?
Yes! Many of our artists offer complimentary touch-ups within the first year for areas that may have healed unevenly. Contact your artist directly or reach out to the shop where you were tattooed to schedule a follow-up. Touch-ups are a normal part of the tattoo process and nothing to worry about.
Where can I find the full tattoo aftercare guide?
We have a comprehensive step-by-step tattoo aftercare guide on our website. It covers everything from Day 1 through full healing, including do's and don'ts, long-term care, and when to contact your artist.
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Why Grade A
The Grade Adifference.
Hospital-Grade Safety
Strict sterilization protocols and single-use equipment at every location.
12+ Years Voted Best
Voted Fort Wayne's best tattoo shop for over a decade running.
Vetted Artists
Every artist undergoes extensive portfolio review and working interviews.
Premium Jewelry Only
Implant-grade titanium and solid gold — included with every piercing.
We're herefor you.
From your first consultation to long-term aftercare, the Grade A team is with you every step of the way.