Aftercare
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
A lot of effort and care have been invested into the application of your artwork.
Now it's up to you to complete the process.
Aftercare is not too difficult.
Just be sure to follow these guidelines;
If you prefer the "traditional" method of healing your tattoo;
1) Remove the bandage after a minimum of 4 hours (but not more than 24 hours). Do not rebandage.
2) Wash the tattoo gently with warm water and mild soap. Always use your hands when washing your tattoo, not a washcloth or scrub brush. And always make sure to wash your hands before and after touching your healing tattoo at any time.
3) Pat dry with a clean towel.
4) Apply a very small amount of Aquaphor to the tattoo and work into the skin. Do not leave a thick layer of ointment sitting on top of the tattoo.
5) Repeat the washing and ointment process 2-4 times a day for the first 2 days.
6) After 2 days, stop using the ointment and switch to a fragrance free lotion.
7) Gently wash the tattoo several times a day and apply lotion whenever the tattoo feels dry or tight.
8) After a few days the tattoo will start to peel and may develop a light scab. Itching will occur towards the end of the healing process. DO NOT pick or scratch at the flaking skin or scabs. Picking will pull out color and can cause scarring.
9) Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight, chlorinated water, lakes, oceans, etc. during the healing process (at least 2 weeks). Use a good sunblock (+30spf) after healing to keep things looking good.
10) Keep the tattoo away from dirt, pet hair, tight clothing, etc. while healing.
11) Any questions or concerns about your healing tattoo? Please don't hesitate to let me know.
If you prefer healing your tattoo with "Saniderm" or other plastic medical adhesive film;
1) Once your tattoo is finished, it will be thoroughly cleaned and blotted dry. Then a clear, semi-permeable film will be applied over the fresh artwork.
2) Do your best to keep the film in place for 5-7 days. It will retain some fluid and towards the end of the process will get kind of crusty looking. This is totally normal and nothing to worry about. You can shower regularly. But do not soak the tattoo.
3) You will be given a small, extra piece of film to cover any areas that may become exposed during the healing process. Or to patch any fluid leaks.
4) After 5-7 days, gently peel the dressing off and wash the tattooed area thoroughly. Dry with a clean towel and apply a moisturizing lotion.
5) There may be some dry skin and peeling for a few days after. DO NOT PICK AT IT!
6) Moisturize as needed and use a good sunblock (+30spf) when exposing the tattoo to direct sunlight.
7) If, during the initial healing stage, you notice excessive fluid buildup or rash-like bumps under the film, gently peel the film off, wash the tattoo and start with step 6) of the traditional healing method above.
8) Any questions or concerns about your healing tattoo? Please don't hesitate to let me know.