TATTOO AFTERCARE GUIDELINES
Everyone heals differently. Above all, listen to your body.
Your tattoo was applied with sterilized and/or disposable equipment. Extreme precaution was taken to ensure your tattoo was applied in a clean, safe manor. Your artist will apply a cream to the tattoo and cover it. The rest is in your hands...
Normal Healing
Your tattoo will bleed and release fluid (a gooey substance, not pus) after tattooing has seized; usually for no more than 24 hours. In the first 3-5 days, the skin will flake and scabbing will occur. Most clients complete this stage within 3-5 days. After that, your tattoo is healed (aprox. 6-10 days in total).
Heres what you have to do...
*Remember: your tattoo is an open wound; keep it clean, free of infection, and never touch it with unwashed hands.
STEP 1 WASH Remove cling wrap after about 3 hrs (if your session ended late, you can wait until morning). Wash the area gently with warm water and a non-perfume liquid soap. Bar soaps are a breeding ground for bacteria - don't use them. Do not use antibacterial soap or a washcloth. It's important to remove all excess fluid. If you do not, it will create a scab and may cause poor healing. Pat dry with clean paper towel. Do not use cloth towels. Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare or Bepanthen. Listen to your body; it may need air, or may be lacking moisture and need covering again.
STEP 2 Determine your day's activities. Are you going dirt biking or staying in? If you're going to be around dirt - keep the tattoo clean and covered. If your home - it's optional. If clothing is an issue, use a cling wrap covering to stop any friction for the first few days. Stay away from strenuous activity and excessive sweating. This is especially important for tattooed feet; the more you walk around, the more they will swell.
STEP 3 Apply tattoo aftercare 1-2 times daily until it is healed ensuring you do so with freshly washed hands. Do not over-moisturise or let it dry out. Listen to your body. Do not use moisturizers not intended for tattoos i.e. perfumed hand cream etc.
THE OTHER RULES...
- don't submerge the tattoo in water; i.e. ocean, lakes, pools, baths and spas. Shower as normal.
- don't expose your fresh tattoo to the sun.
- don't pick at your flaking/scabbing tattoo.
- come back and visit us! Seeing our work healed helps us become better artists.
- In the long term: cover it when possible from sunlight exposure and use lots of sunscreen. Thanks and enjoy your new art!
