Dean McKee creates custom tattoos, cover-ups, vacation, memorial tattoos, and fine line work at Inside Ink Tattoo Studio in Largo, Florida.

Tattoo After Care Guide

The artist does half the job... the rest is up to you....

🖋️ You Just Got Inked — Now What? (Tattoo Aftercare Guide)

Getting a new tattoo is exciting — but how you care for it over the next few weeks makes all the difference.

At Inside Ink Tattoo Studio in Largo, Florida, we don’t just create tattoos — we create work that’s meant to last. Proper aftercare is what keeps your tattoo bold, clean, and vibrant for years to come.

Whether you're a local or visiting from Indian Rocks Beach, Clearwater, or anywhere in Pinellas County, here’s exactly what you need to know.

🕐 The First 24 Hours

Dean says this to every client before they walk out the door:

👉 “I do half the job — you do the other half.”

Your aftercare is what brings the tattoo to life.

Dean prefers to let your skin breathe whenever possible. However, if you're traveling or need protection from clothing, your tattoo may be covered with a wrap or bandage.

  • Leave the wrap on for 2–4 hours (or as directed)
  • Wash your hands first, then use just your hands — no washcloths or loofahs
  • Gently wash with lukewarm water + fragrance-free soap
  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel — don’t rub
  • Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor

❗ Don’t glob it on — your tattoo still needs to breathe

👉 Think: light, clean, simple

🔥 Days 2–7: The Healing Phase

This is where most people start to wonder if everything is okay — and it usually is.

Your tattoo may:

  • Feel sore
  • Look slightly dull
  • Start peeling, flaking or weeping

All of this is completely normal.

Follow this routine:

  • Wash gently 2–3 times a day
  • Use fragrance-free soap
  • Apply a light layer of Aquafor or tattoo aftercare balm
  • Avoid:
    • Pools
    • Hot tubs
    • Ocean water (especially important here near the beaches 🌊)
  • Stay out of direct sunlight
  • ❗ Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel

👉 Trust the process — this is where your tattoo settles in

☀️ Weeks 2–4: The Long Heal

Even if your tattoo looks healed, your skin is still repairing underneath.

  • Continue moisturizing daily
  • 100% Argon Oil is healing
  • Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen when exposed

👉 Sun damage is one of the biggest causes of fading — especially in Florida

⚠️ Signs of Infection to Watch For

Infections are rare when proper aftercare is followed, but it’s important to know what to look for:

  • Excessive redness
  • Increasing swelling
  • Pus or unusual discharge
  • Fever

If something feels off:
👉 Contact a medical professional
👉 Or reach out to us — we’re always here to help

🖤 Why Aftercare Matters (Our Philosophy)

At Inside Ink, every tattoo carries meaning.

Dean spent 30 years fighting for a second chance — and now puts that same level of intention into every piece he creates.

Taking care of your tattoo isn’t just about healing —
it’s about respecting the art, your body, and your story.

🖤 One More Thing…

We’ll say it again because it matters:

👉 Dean does half the job — you do the rest.

Follow these steps, trust the process, and your tattoo will heal exactly the way it was meant to.

📍 Ready for Your Next Tattoo?

Whether you're local to Largo or visiting from Indian Rocks Beach or Clearwater:

  • Walk-ins welcome (when available)
  • Custom tattoos designed just for you
  • Clean, professional, no-pressure environment

👉 Book your appointment today
👉 Or stop by the studio and talk with us

And don’t forget to check out our merch — wear the story between sessions.