Aftercare

After care WITH adhesive bandage

Adhesive bandages (Second Skin, Saniderm, and Tegaderm) are medical-grade, waterproof bandages that protect your new tattoo from barterica and infection. If you are using an adhesive bandage:

  • Leave your adhesive bandage on for 3-5 days. Plasma, ink and blood will likely build up underneath the bandage— this is completely normal and helps with the healing process. You can shower with your adhesive bandage on.

  • After 3-5 days, remove the bandage in a warm shower— this will help the adhesive bandage peel off easier. Peel off slowly in the direction of hair growth. Do NOT rip it off like a band-aid. Once your bandage is removed, clean your tattoo with anti-bacterial fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a single-use paper towel or clean bath towel. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to the tattoo. If using Vaseline or Aquaphor, be sure to apply a thin layer and fully rub it in. Remember to always wash your hands before touching and cleaning your tattoo!

  • Clean and moisturize 2x/day for the first two weeks after removing the bandage. Please avoid direct sun exposure, and soaking your tattoo in water (saunas, pools, hot tubs) during this time as well.

  • Please do not scratch your tattoo if it is itchy, you can pat it. Bacteria under your nails can impact the healing process of your new tattoo and picking scabs can cause pigment to fall out. Likewise be aware of pet dander as this can also impact the healing process.

  • Adhesive allergies can happen. An adhesive allergy can cause redness or irritation around or underneath the bandage covering the tattoo. If you are having an allergic reaction, remove the bandage, and begin caring for your tattoo as instructed above.

  • If at any point you feel like your tattoo has become infected please reach out to your artist and seek medical attention immediately.

After care WITHOUT adhesive bandage

If you are healing your tattoo without an adhesive bandage (Second Skin, Saniderm, and Tegaderm) leave the bandage (likely saran wrap) on for 4-6 hours post tattoo, remove the bandage and wash your tattoo gently with anti-bacterial fragrance free soapy water. Then let the tattoo dry out all the way (you may use a dry, clean paper towel) and apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to the tattoo. If using Vaseline or Aquaphor, be sure to apply a thin layer and fully rub it in.

  • Wash your tattoo 3 times a day for the following 5 days and apply a thin layer of unscented lotion once the tattoo has dried each time. After those 5 days switch to washing your tattoo morning and night and applying a thin layer of unscented lotion to the tattoo throughout the day 2-3 times as it feels dry.

  • Please avoid direct sun exposure, and soaking your tattoo in water (saunas, pools, hot tubs) for at least 2 weeks after the initial 5 days of cleaning.

  • Please do not scratch your tattoo if it is itchy, you can pat it. Bacteria under your nails can impact the healing process of your new tattoo, and picking scabs can cause pigment to fall out. Likewise be aware of pet dander as this can also impact the healing process.

  • If at any point you feel like your tattoo has become infected please reach out to your artist and seek medical attention immediately.