With most of my tattoos (some heavy shading, some with just linework) The best results have been with: Once the tattoo is complete, clean with greensoap, spray a little bit of bactine, then wrap in saran wrap. Or just wash with greensoap, dry, then wrap. I leave the wrap on until the next morning. Once the wrap is taken off, I keep it clean and dry sometimes applying a small amount of A&D. I have never re-wrapped and don't plan to. On the third day or so I start using Lubriderm/aquaphor/curel etc. while still washing 2-3 times a day. Everyone heals differently so the one-size-fits-all aftercare instructions may not be the way to go. Whatever works for you the best. If someone is a tattoo virgin just listen to what the artist says. With my tattoos my simple linework tattoos take about two weeks tops to heal. Heavy shading pieces usually take around 3 weeks sometimes a little more to completely heal.