I just got a tattoo this day and my artist gave me written instructions for how to take care of it.
He stated to leave it bandaged for 2-6 hours and then wash it, and put A&D ointment on it, twice a day for 3 days.

My question is, and I forgot to ask him this, do I put the bandage back on after I start putting the A&D ointment on? Or should it be left off?

Answer:
Should be left off. It's gotta air out.

Sometimes the first night or two I covered mine back up before I went to bed because my first tattoo left an imprint on my sheets. That never came out.

But it's up to you and during the day you should it off.

Oh yea and after reading some other answers people left. A&D is the best ointment to be used. But all my artists always said to only use it for maybe the first 2 or 3 days. Then switch to using the uncented Lubriderm lotion until the scabs all fall off. That's the lotion I ALWAYS use anyways.

Good luck.

Answer:
Leave it off. Your new tattoo needs to breathe in order to heal properly. Apply A&D whenever you feel your tattoo is getting too dry. The key to helping a new tattoo heal swiftly is a moist, germ-free environment.
Answer:
Leave it off, and I dunno about ointments but my artist told me to stay away from those, I've used unscented Lubriderm on all of my tattoos and they came out fine.
Answer:
My ideal friends mom got a tatto. you put the bandage back on.
Answer:
leave the bandage off.