Tattoo Aftercare
Having a tattoo procedure always has risks.
No matter how well you take care of your new tattoo, there is always a risk of an allergic reaction, infection, and scarring.
These risks are solely your responsibility. Following these instructions carefully minimizes that risk. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me immediately by using the information provided in your aftercare tattoo kit.
Do not consult a friend or the internet for advice.
Ask me if you have any questions or concerns about your new tattoo,
or you may consult your physician (at your own cost).
All tattoo artists have their own systems of aftercare due to their way of tattooing.
For the health of your body and the longevity of your new piece of art,
please use my aftercare instructions and the provided products.
Tattoo Aftercare Kit
I will provide you with everything you will need to take care of your new tattoo.
I believe tattoo artists should provide their customers with everything they need for their new tattoo to have the best chances of healing correctly. Doing so will also ensure a low to no-risk chance of an allergic reaction, infection, and scarring. Included in the minimum tattoo procedure fee, you will get an aftercare kit that includes:
• Aftercare Lotion
• Aftercare Soap
• Aftercare Instruction Pamphlet
I will also email you timely aftercare updates and instructions after your tattoo procedure. These updates will explain what to expect during the healing process and reminders of care and upkeep of your healing tattoo.
Aftercare Instructions
Step One - Bandage Removal
Non-Stick Sterile Dressing
A non-stick sterile dressing is available for those with adhesive sensitivities.
WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly, then remove this bandage 1-2 hours after tattoo.
DO NOT re-bandage.
Rinse the tattoo with warm water. Then proceed with the washing instructions.
Bleeding, swelling, slight redness, and soreness are normal.
Transparent Film Dressing
Transparent film dressing is applied to those who DO NOT have an adhesive sensitivity.
Leave this film dressing on the tattoo for 24 - 48 hours.
To remove the film dressing, first, start by WASHING YOUR HANDS thoroughly.
Step into a shower and let warm water run on the film and slowly peel the film from the tattoo.
Then proceed with the washing instructions.
There may be a lot of fluid that builds up in the film; that's okay as long as nothing leaks in or out of the film.
The film is showerproof, but be careful that no water gets inside. If fluid leaks out or water leaks in,
you must remove the bandage immediately and proceed with the washing instructions.
Step Two - Washing Instructions
You will wash your tattoo three times a day for the first seven days.
Before you wash your tattoo (or touch), you must WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly!
First, rinse the tattoo with WARM water.
The warm water will open your pores and allow the tattoo to drain excess plasma.
Second, with a small amount of *soap, wash your tattoo with WARM water and clean hands.
The warm water will open the pores of your tattoo and allow the tattoo to drain excess plasma.
DO NOT use a washrag, loofah, body pouf, or other cleaning items that can hold bacteria.
Third, rinse the tattoo thoroughly with COOL water. The cold water will close up your pores, plus the cold water will soothe the tattoo.
I recommend that you wash your tattoo with Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint soap or clear antibacterial hand soap.
Step Three - Applying Lotion
You will apply lotion to your tattoo every 1-3 hours for 14 days or until the tattoo has fully healed.
Before applying lotion to your tattoo, make sure you WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly
or use a hand sanitizer. Cleaning or sanitizing your hands will reduce your risk of infection.
To apply lotion, place a small bead of lotion on the tip of your finger and work it from the center of the tattoo to the edges. Make sure NO extra lotion stays on top of the tattoo.
It is normal to experience dryness, itchiness, scabbing, peeling (like a sunburn) and flaking.
It is important to NEVER SCRATCH, PICK or RUB a healing tattoo.
I recommend that you ONLY use a fragrance-free lotion or Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint lotion for your tattoo. Lotions with chemical fragrances will cause your tattoo to burn.
Important Reminders
DO NOT let anyone else touch your tattoo!
That includes children and pets.
Do not let your tattoo come into contact with any public surface.
(like gym equipment, keyboards, doors, etc.)
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NO scratching, rubbing, or picking your tattoo!
Avoid scratching or picking at scabs if they form. Scratching, rubbing, or picking will irritate the tattoo. It will also prolong the healing process, as well as cause scarring and loss of ink.
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Wear soft and loose-fitting clothing over your tattoo!
Allow your tattoo to breathe. Make sure clothing does not rub against your tattoo.
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STAY OUT of the sun!
Allow your tattoo to fully heal before being in the sun or applying sunscreen, typically 6-8 weeks.
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NO swimming or soaking your tattoo!
No soaking in water, baths, hot tubs, ocean, sauna, surfing, etc., until the tattoo is fully healed, typically 6-8 weeks.
