Aftercare & Sterilization
The way you heal determines how your art looks forever. Learn how to care for your new ink & how we keep your session 100% sterile.
The 30-Day Roadmap
Phase 1: The Shield
Days 1–2
Leave the protective bandage (second skin) on. It will collect ink and plasma—this is completely normal. Do not touch or peel it.
Phase 2: The Big Reveal
Day 3
Remove the bandage under warm running water. Wash gently with unscented, antibacterial soap using only your clean hands. Pat dry with a fresh paper towel. Do not rub.
Phase 3: The Itchy Monster
Days 4–14
Your tattoo will start to peel and itch. Apply a very thin layer of our recommended aftercare ointment 2-3 times a day. NEVER scratch or pick at the flakes.
Phase 4: Settling In
Weeks 2–4
Switch to a lightweight, unscented lotion. Keep the area moisturized but don't drown it. The skin might look slightly cloudy as the deeper layers heal.
Phase 5: Forever Care
Month 1+
Your tattoo is fully healed! To keep the lines crisp and the black deep, always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen when exposed to the sun.
The Hell No List
- NO swimming or soaking in water (baths, hot tubs, lakes).
- NO direct sun exposure or tanning beds.
- NO picking, scratching, or peeling the tattoo.
- NO tight clothing rubbing against the fresh tattoo.
- NO heavy sweating or gym sessions for the first two weeks.
Our Sterilization Process
Your health, safety, and peace of mind are non-negotiable. Here is how Ink Me Toronto maintains hospital-grade cleanliness for every tattoo & piercing.
100% Single-Use Needles
Every tattoo cartridge and piercing needle is pre-sealed, EO-gas sterilized, and opened directly in front of you before your session begins.
Hospital-Grade Disinfection
All studio chairs, armrests, and work surfaces are sanitized between clients using CaviCide & Optim 33TB medical-grade tuberculocidal disinfectants.
Surgical Stainless Steel & Titanium
High-grade 316L surgical stainless steel jewelry comes standard with all piercings. Premium ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium is available upon request.
Cross-Contamination Barriers
Single-use protective barrier films wrap all machines, power supplies, cords, and furniture. Every barrier is discarded after each client.
Autoclave Sterilization & Logs
Reusable stainless steel grips undergo ultrasonic bath processing and medical autoclave steam sterilization with verified spore testing logs.
Peel Public Health Certified
Fully inspected, licensed, and certified compliant with Brampton & Ontario Ministry of Health personal service setting regulations.
Want a Tour of Our Studio Setup?
Have questions about our sterilization logs or jewelry metals? Sam and our team are happy to walk you through our equipment setup in person before your appointment.