Aftercare

If your artist applied Adhesive Film (Saniderm, Tegaderm, etc.):

• Leave the bandage on for three to five days. It is expected to see ink and plasma under the bandage.

• If the bandage is sealed around the edges (the tattoo itself is not exposed), do not remove it before the allotted time.

• If the seal is broken (e.g., plasma is leaking out, or water is leaking in), remove the bandage and refer to the aftercare instructions below.

• Avoid the following: any activities that would cause you to sweat, long and/or hot showers, soaking your tattoo in any water (e.g., baths, swimming pools, etc.), and sun exposure.  

• Remove the bandage after the allotted time, preferably in the shower. Pull the bandage off over itself, not away from the skin.

• Upon removal, wash the area well with a mild, antibacterial soap (such as Dial Gold); pat dry with a clean, dry disposable (such as a paper towel), let air dry for twenty to thirty minutes, and then apply a fragrance-free aftercare product (such as Aquaphor)

• Wash the area at least twice daily with a mild, antibacterial soap and apply a fragrance-free aftercare product for at least seven days.

• If the area looks dry, apply a small amount of fragrance-free aftercare product with clean hands.

If your artist DID NOT apply Adhesive Film:

• Remove any bandages after one to two hours. All wounds need to breathe to heal correctly.

• Upon removal, wash the area well with a mild, antibacterial soap (such as Dial Gold); remove all traces of blood and plasma, as this will cause scabbing. Pat dry with a clean, dry disposable (such as a paper towel), let air dry for twenty to thirty minutes, and then apply a fragrance-free aftercare product (such as Aquaphor).

• Wash the area at least twice daily with a mild, antibacterial soap and apply a fragrance-free aftercare product for at least two weeks.

Things to AVOID during the Tattoo healing process:

• Avoid picking, scratching, or scrubbing your tattoo. This can cause ink to fall out or scar tissue.

• Avoid soaking your tattoo. No baths, swimming pools, lakes, oceans, etc., for at least three weeks after getting your tattoo.

• Avoid public gyms for at least three weeks after getting your tattoo.

• Wear clean, breathable cotton clothes if you must cover the tattoo. Also, make sure your bedsheets are clean.

• Avoid letting pets around your tattoo for at least three weeks after getting it. Pet hair, dander, and other contaminants can cause an infection.

• Do not over-apply a fragrance-free aftercare product (such as Aquaphor). Only a small, thin layer is needed to help heal the tattoo and to let the skin breathe.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the studio or your artist.