Aftercare
So you've just gotten tattooed and now you have to take care of this thing!
Relax its not as difficult as you might think
Tattoos are just like any cut or scrape, but with color added
The most important rule during the healing process is not scratch or pick at your healing tattoo.
Also during the healing process do not go swimming or sunbathing. This includes tanning beds. Ultra violet light is very bad for your fresh tattoo and so is chlorine.
It is also important not to soak your new tattoo during the healing process. Showering is fine and recommended, but baths are not.
If you are allergic to second skin bandages please let me know before the end of the session. I normally use this type of bandage, but if you are allergic I have another kind that won't cause issues.
Keep your second skin bandage on for 24 hours. If you use another type of bandage due to allergies take it off in 3 to 6 hours.
Gently wash your tattoo with a mild soap after removing your bandage and dab dry with a clean towel.
If you had second skin make sure your tattoo and the area around it is dry and then apply the second piece you will be given to take home with you. If you are unable to apply the second bandage you can return to the shop and i can reapply it for you the day after your appointment. If you did not use a second skin bandage this does not apply to you. Don't cover your tattoo again.
Leave your second bandage on for 4 to 7 days after it has been applied. If it comes off sooner than that it will not harm the tattoo, but that is the recommended amount of time to keep it on for.
After removing the second bandage clean and dry it again the same as before.
After the bandage is removed the tattoo will begin to get dry and itchy.
Apply a small amount of unscented moisturizer to the tattoo 2 to 3 times a day.
Do not use Vaseline or Polysporin on your tattoo.
Brands like Lubriderm, Aquaphor, or Aveeno work just fine. If you want to use specific made for tattoo brands that is fine as well.
The entire healing process generally takes between 2 to 3 weeks to fully heal. sometimes this can be shorter or longer with different people.
If you didn't use a second skin bandage you will likely get some scabbing. if you did use one you likely will not.
after the scabbing has flaked off the skin will appear shiny for about 5 to 7 days longer.
After this the tattoo should be healed. The color will become a little more dull in your skin than when it was brand new and it should no longer have any dryness or be shiny.
After your tattoo is healed we highly recommend wearing sunscreen on it if you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun. Even after its healed UV light is the biggest factor in fading your tattoo. Sunscreen can keep it vibrant for a lot longer than not wearing it will.