After Care Instructions
Main Steps To Follow:
1. When the tattoo is finished, I will wrap your tattoo with absorbent bandaging to prevent leaking and moisture buildup.
2. Leave the bandage on overnight and gently remove the following morning. MAKE SURE to wash your tattoo thoroughly after removing the bandaging. This can be done in the shower.
3. Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel (regular towels have more chance to carry bacteria). It is best practice to wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day for the first week.
4. Wait to apply moisturizer for at least 8 hours after removing the bandage. This will allow your tattoo to breathe and begin forming a natural barrier.
5. When it is time to apply moisturizer, wash your hands well and make sure to apply a modest amount fully messaging into skin with no left over residue. It is important to allow the moisturizer to fully soak-in and for the skin to feel dry before re-applying.
RULES for the First 2 Weeks:
* Wash your hands ANYTIME you touch your tattoo.
* Keep your showers under 10 minutes. Wash your tattoo in the shower but don't soak it.
* Your tattoo will peel like a sunburn. Allow the flakes of skin to fall off on their own without rubbing or picking them off.
* It is recommended that you avoid activities that are dusty or dirty.
* Do not submerge the tattoo in water. This includes a swimming pool, lake, ocean, bath and sink.
* Avoid the sauna and workouts that involve heavy sweating.
What products can I use on my new tattoo?
- Unscented moisturizer, unscented gentle soap or tattoo related after care products.
- Clean, gentle, loose-fit clothing. Always ensure the clothing is fresh and clean.
What products are NOT allowed?
- Vaseline or petroleum based products can result in clogged pores, pimples and ink loss.
- Do not use polysporin or similar products.
- Wrapping your tattoo with plastic will cause ink loss.
- Scented products can cause rash and irritation.
- Sunscreen can not be used for the first 2 weeks of the healing period so instead cover the tattoo with clean comfortable clothing and limit the amount of moisturizer being used so that your tattoo does not stick to your clothing.
What does an infection look like?
Large red areas, open sores, yellow scabs, painful throbbing.
If you are concerned your tattoo may be infected consult with a doctor and antibiotics or topical treatment may be required. Infections can be cleared up easily if treated right away.
What does the healing process look like?
The first day:
The tattoo is wrapped with dressing until the following morning.
2-4 days:
The tattoo may be tender and the area may have some swelling.
Allow the tattoo to dry out so that the body can begin to create a natural barrier.
You may take IBuprofen to reduce the swelling.
4-9 days:
The tattoo will begin to peel like a sunburn and feel itchy. During this time you may use moisturizer or lightly slap the tattoo to relieve itching.
9-14 days:
By this time your tattoo is close to being healed!
You may still have some dry skin or scabs, be patient and continue to care for your tattoo. Remember everyone's body is different and these are general guidelines to help but are not the same for everyone.
Tattoos take 3-5 weeks to be fully settled and if you feel that you may need a touchup after this time period, let me know