Thank you for getting a tattoo! Please follow these aftercare instructions closely for the best healed results.
Healing Tattoo With Second Skin
If you've chosen to use a second skin bandage, the bandage will likely fill up with plasma during the first 24 hours. This is completely normal and will not harm the healing process. This plasma will gradually be reabsorbed into the skin and will dry out under the bandage. This is also normal and can be left alone. If the second skin leaks at all, please remove it as soon as possible so that debris and bacteria doesn't enter the bandaged area. Your tattoo is most susceptible to infection during the first 72 hours so it's critical to keep the area clean. To remove the bandage, wash your hands, then slowly pull the bandage parallel to the skin. Avoid peeling the second skin up and away from your tattoo as this can damage and irritate skin. Gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented, preferably antibacterial liquid soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and let dry completely. Apply a new second skin bandage and leave in place for up to 6 days. You may take showers while second skin is in place but avoid submerging your tattoo.
Take it easy during the initial healing phase. Many factors can effect how your tattoo heals. Avoid heavy sweating or strenuous activities while the second skin is in place as sweat can accumulate underneath the bandage. If your tattoo is in a mobile area of the body such as areas near elbow crease or knee ditch, refrain from bending these areas as much as possible.
When you're ready to remove the second skin, repeat the removal and cleansing process explained above. Once washed and completely dry, apply a thin layer of light unscented lotion with clean hands. Avoid heavy lotions or ointments while your new tattoo is healing to allow skin to breathe. repeat this cleansing and moisturizing process twice a day until your tattoo is completely healed. Wear clean, loose fitting clothing that covers your tattoo to protect from dirt and bacteria during the healing process. You may take quick showers but avoid submerging the tattoo in water until it is fully healed.
During these first couple weeks, your tattoo may flake or lightly scab. Do not itch, scratch, or peel your heeling tattoo as this can result in ink loss. Your tattoo may temporarily appear uneven or blurred during this time, and color may change, darken, or fade, this is perfectly normal and part of the healing process. Things will even out as your tattoo heals. Continue to apply a thin layer of unscented lotion when your tattoo feels dry to aid in the healing process for a full month.
When your tattoo is all healed up, I recommend using a gentle exfoliant and moisturizer on your tattoo daily to keep it looking fresh, and most importantly always apply an SPF when tattoo is exposed to the sun.
If you have any questions or concerns about your healing process, please dont hesitate to reach out.
If your tattoo ever needs a touch up to restore color please reach out and we’ll setup a free touch up appointment.
Healing With Traditional Bandage Dressings
Leave the initial dressing on your new tattoo on for at least 2 to 3 hours to let the plasma seep out. Once removed wash with liquid soap, pat dry with a paper towel and replace with a new bandage. Leave this bandage on overnight. When you remove the bandage, begin the routine of washing your tattoo with a mild liquid (preferably antibacterial) soap at least twice a day or after any raised risk of contamination. Pat dry with a paper towel and let dry completely before applying a thin layer of light unscented lotion. Heavy creams and ointments are not recommended, especially over flakey or scabby areas. Wear clean loose fitting clothing that will cover your tattoo during the initial healing phase. Your tattoo is most vulnerable for infection within the first 72 hours, so be extra mindful of cleanliness during this period.
If your tattoo is in a mobile area of the body such as areas near elbow crease or knee ditch, refrain from bending these areas as much as possible. Do not submerge your new tattoo in water for the first 2 weeks. Quick showers are perfectly fine!
During these first couple weeks, your tattoo may scab or flake. your tattoo may temporarily appear uneven or blurred during this time, and color may change, darken, or fade, this is perfectly normal and part of the healing process. Things will even out as your tattoo heals. Continue to apply a thin layer of unscented lotion when your tattoo feels dry to aid in the healing process for a full month.
Do not itch, scratch, or purposefully peel your heeling tattoo. This can result in ink loss and permanent scarring.
When your tattoo is all healed up, I recommend using a gentle exfoliant and moisturizer on your tattoo daily to keep it looking fresh, and most importantly always apply an SPF when tattoo is exposed to the sun.
If you have any questions or concerns about your healing process, please dont hesitate to reach out.
If your tattoo ever needs a touch up to restore color please reach out and we’ll setup a free touch up appointment.