Aftercare Overview

Even if you’re covered in ink, each new piece can heal different than the last. Treat each new tattoo with a little extra TLC to ensure they all have a solid heal. These steps are a good general guide for an average heal.

Second Skin/Derm shield (Preferred Method)

1

  • Right after appointment:

    • I provide an initial second skin bandage for all my clients. Except for when tattoos are in highly sensitive areas such as inner biceps or upper inner thighs. For clients that have adverse reactions to adhesive the traditional healing method will need to be used.

    • If you purchase your own second skin you can replace the initial bandage after 24 hours of your tattoo appointment. Be sure to throughly wash and pat dry the tattoo before applying a new bandage.

    • Leave the initial/replacement bandage on for up to 6/7 days. During that time your tattoo is an open wound and will continue to bleed/release plasma that will be trapped under the bandage. This does not hurt the tattoo.

      • Do not puncture or push the liquid to the edge of the bandage. Doing so will create an opening for bacteria to enter. If you spring a leak remove the bandage immediately.

  • Second skin removal

    • To remove the second skin bandage I recommend running it under warm/hot water to help the adhesive release from your skin.

      • I find doing this in the shower is easiest.

      • Always pull the bandage down, never away from your skin

      • Slow and steady wins the race!

      • Immediately clean the tattoo with antibacterial soap

  • After removal

    • Gently clean the tattoo 2-3 times a day or as needed.

      • Apply a thin layer of tattoo balm/ointment after each wash and as needed to avoid the tattoo drying out.

    • Once your skin starts to flake start using unscented lotion.

      • minimum of 2-3 weeks

      • Unscented lotion typically has less alcohol in the formula which will cause less dry out/itching

    • Avoid direct sun exposure for 1 month

Traditional Healing

2

  • Right after appointment:

    • A non-adhesive bandage will be applied

    • Leave bandage on for a minimum of 6 hours but no longer than 24 hours.

    • Throughly clean tattoo with antibacterial soap and pat dry. Allow tattoo to rest 10 minutes before applying ointment.

  • After removal

    • Gently clean the tattoo 2-3 times a day or as needed.

      • Apply a thin layer of tattoo balm/ointment after each wash and as needed to avoid the tattoo drying out.

    • Once your skin starts to flake start using unscented lotion.

      • minimum of 2-3 weeks

      • Unscented lotion typically has less alcohol in the formula which will cause less dry out/itching

    • Avoid direct sun exposure for 1 month

After my appointment Dos and Don’ts

3

  • Do:

    • Wait till tattoo is fully healed to swim

    • Use SPF products after tattoo is healed

      • Sunburns will permanently damage your tattoo

    • Apply moisturizer daily and stay hydrated

      • Your skin is your biggest organ. Take care of it!

    • Show off your new ink to everyone you know!

  • Don’t

    • Soak or submerge a healing tattoo

      • No swimming or baths

      • Keep showers brief

    • No direct UV exposure

      • No tanning beds, beach days, or pool side lounges

    • Avoid heavy work outs

      • I love that you work out…maybe just a little break for your new investment?