How do I take care of my tattoo?

I suggest to wash it with warm water and unscented anti-bacterial soap at least 1-2 times a day. Never use a bar of soap or scented soaps because they could contain alcohol in them, or have bacteria growing on them. Also, never use your towel to dry it off, use something new such as paper towels instead. The goal with aftercare itself is merely to moisturize the skin. If scabs have occurred due to heavy saturation, then use something like Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E. Otherwise stick to unscented lotion such as Aveeno. When applying any lotion or balm to it, wash your hands first, and apply a small amount on the new tattoo itself. If shiny, wipe excess off with a dry paper towel.

Is it normal to for my arm to be bruised the day after of the tattoo?

Yes, this is normal. When stretching the skin, sometimes bruising can occur after a long tattoo session. Feel free to take some ibuprofen and ice it if needed.

Can I go swimming the week of the tattoo session?

No, when you first get your tattoo done, you do not want to submerge your new tattoo under water. Unknown bacterias have a possibility of getting underneath your skin and causing infection.

What do you suggest I do if my dog or cat scratched the tattoo?

If an animal has touched your tattoo at all, make sure to wash it right away. If the area itself ended up getting scratched to the point that you are bleeding, then please contact me for further instruction to rectify any issue that could potentially arise.