How to Care For a Tattoo

Thinking about getting your first tattoo? Any ink enthusiast will tell you that there are a lot of rules to consider — it's not something you do on a whim. Getting the exact artwork you want is a process that starts long before you arrive at the parlor. So we've created this comprehensive calendar. It includes everything you need to know: tips for finding the right artist, safety measures to follow, and aftercare instructions. Once you've studied this time line, browse some of our endless photos for tattoo inspiration.