Tattoo Aftercare
Here’s what you need to know
Your tattoo is an open wound!
The first 3 days are the most important to keep it clean! Do not touch or put lotion on in this time.
To Do:
Bandages on over night (to avoid getting anything in the wound).
AM remove bandages, & jump in the shower, apply unscented soap to your hand and wash under warm water removing all debris from the tattoo.
Pat dry with a clean towel.
You can wash your tattoo once a day or as needed (you want it to start to dry so do not over wash)
In 3-5 days you will see scabbing start, with clean hands you apply a thin layer of unscented lotion like Cera Ve 2 times a day (NO COCONUT OIL!)
Apply lotion when itchy for relief.
You will start to see the scabbing flake, continue to lotion, do not pick!
Do Not:
EVER reapply any bandages.
DO NOT touch or put lotion on in this time, your skin needs to dry and scab in order to heal itself. (Remember this is a wound so by touching your tattoo you’re rubbing oils and dirt into it, putting lotion on too soon will create a wet environment for bacteria to grow).
DO NOT over lotion or apply to soon as it can cause rashes and excessive scabbing, touchups will not be covered in this case.
DO NOT pick scabs as you will create scar tissue and touch ups will not be covered.
NO baths, gym, tanning or spray tan, hot tubs, saunas, swimming pools for 2 weeks AS THIS CAN LEAD TO SERIOUS INFECTIONS
Make sure all sheets, clothing, towels are clean before touching your tattoo!
Keep your tattoo covered by clean loose clothing if working in a dirty environment.
Not following these instructions or using the recommended after care can lead to infection.
Second Skin Instructions
We do not always use second skin, but for the artists that do:
Leave second skin on for 9 days.
1. It is normal to see blood pooling, this will turn black and dry, Your tattoo is not smudging!
2. After 9 days remove bandage and wash with soap and water using only your clean hands
3. Allow your tattoo to dry for 1-2 days, then apply unscented lotion
If second skin starts peeling off before day 9 - just remove, wash the tattoo and let dry out for a few days before applying lotion.
If you have a sticky residue: use coconut oil and fingers to remove. (Do not use coconut oil as a moisturizer)
If you see any blistering: remove bandage, wash your tattoo and let it dry out