What's the best aftercare methods for a new tattoo?

I got a new tattoo recently on my forearm. it seems to be healing up nicely but i have a scab on part of it, yes i know that's normal. but the thing that concers me is the shading on the tattoo seems to make my skin look a little odd. it was peeling for about two days and i don't see any signs of peeling as of this morning. my artist told me a few things different than what've i've been reading online. she told me keep the bandage on for 24 hours and i did, wash it with warm water and soap using my hand right after i remove the bandage and i did.. but this is where things seem to go a little different. she told me to keep it as dry as possible for the next two weeks and only use the lotion she gave me when it starts iching so badly i can't stand not to scratch it. i've been reading online about using a scent, dye, and oil free lotion for a few weeks to keep it moisturized. not sure if i should go out and buy some lotion or just wait a little longer and see how it looks in a about a week. tell me what you think! :)