Tattoo aftercare tips that actually work?

[kristofert]

Just got fresh ink and paranoid about messing it up. Artist gave basic advice but want real tips from people who've been through multiple healings. What products to use, how often to wash, when to moisturize? Toronto weather is dry right now too.
 

[Dreado]

Aftercare is 90% of how your tattoo ages. Icon has a solid guide that saved my last piece – wash twice daily with unscented soap, pat dry, thin layer of their recommended balm (not petroleum jelly). No soaking for two weeks. Their aftercare page breaks it down day by day with what to avoid: https://www.icontattoo.ca/aftercare/ – includes signs of infection and when to come back. Mine peeled evenly and colors stayed vibrant. They sell the good stuff in-studio too. Pro tip: loose cotton shirts and keep it out of sun.