Aftercare
Aftercare is one of the most important steps in getting a new tattoo. Below are helpful tips and information that can help you through your tattoo healing process.
If you have any questions, please reach out to me via email.
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The First Day
At the end of your session, I will go over the aftercare process in depth with you. If you are a first time client, I will provide you with an aftercare pack (includes soap and ointment). I will also provide second skin for your new tattoo (optional, please visit "Info & FAQ" for more info). You will be sent home with an extra piece that will be switched out after 24 hours.
Second Skin
Once you are ready to switch to your new second skin, you will take the first piece off gently under running water. Please be gentle with your skin during this process; second skin is made with strong adhesive. Do NOT rip it off quickly; doing so could damage your skin and new tattoo.
Once you have removed the first piece, you will wash your tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap. Let the tattoo airdry, or pat dry with a paper towel. Once the tattoo is dry you can apply your fresh piece of second skin. This piece will stay on the tattoo for 3-5 days.*
The Next Two Weeks
After 3-5 days, remove your second bandage the same way you removed the first. Wash the area and allow to air dry or pat dry with a paper towel.
For the next two weeks, wash your tattoo twice a day (morning and night). After each wash, moisturize your tattoo using an unscented lotion or the ointment I provided for you. Avoid using heavy ointments like Aquaphor or Vaseline.
Along with moisturizing after each wash, moisturize the tattoo a few times throughout the day as well.
Other Info
Over the next two weeks your tattoo will start to peel. Do NOT pick at it. Allow the peeling skin to fall off on its own. Picking at a fresh tattoo can result in scarring and an uneven heal.
You may also experience an itchy phase with your new tattoo. Do NOT itch it. Itching a healing tattoo can result in scarring and an uneven heal. Lotion/ointment can help subside the itchiness you may experience.
During your two week healing period, keep your tattoo out of the sun. Do not use sunscreen on your tattoo until it is fully healed.
Avoid soaking your tattoo in water for 2-3 weeks. Your tattoo can get wet (showers are fine) but you should avoid submerging it (no swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, baths, etc.). Submerging your tattoo in water can lead to infection.
Your tattoo can take 2-4 weeks to fully heal. Once it has fully healed, continue to moisturize it for the rest of your life! Apply sunscreen any time your tattoo will be exposed to the sun.
*Avoid activities to the best of your abilities that will cause you to sweat while wearing second skin. Trapping sweat under the second skin can lead to infection.