AFTER CARE INSTRUCTIONS

So you just got tattooed, now what?

Aftercare is arguably more important than the session. This plays the biggest role in how a tattoo will heal and whether or not you need a touch up. So let’s make it simple!

You will leave the studio after your session with your tattoo covered in one of three ways: 

• Tegaderm: Also known as second skin, saniderm, etc. 

• Tattooo Armor: This is a sterilized pad that will soak up all the initial plasma leakage.

• Traditional Seran Wrap: Self explanatory 

How long before the first wash will depend which way we wrapped your tattoo. I will tell you when to remove the wrap after our session. Make sure that when you remove your wrap you have access to a clean environment. (I recommend in the shower.) 

Step 1: If you’re using tegaderm, I recommend showering like normal and then removing the adhesive at the end of your shower. This will help make the removal easier. Do it slowly and be patient. If you’re using tattoo armor or seran wrap, you can remove it before getting into the shower.

Step 2: There will be a layer of plasma on the tattoo. It can be kinda gooey (gross I know). It’s especially important that you clean all of this plasma off.  Even if you don’t see plasma buildup, you’ll want to be sure to clean the tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap really well. Don’t be afraid to apply light pressure! DO NOT use a loofah or your nails to clean the tattoo!

This next step is often where I think most people struggle, applying ointment. Don’t worry, I got you!

Step 3: Once you’re done cleaning and checking out your new tattoo in the mirror, let it dry. DO NOT use a towel to do this. Either let it air dry or use clean paper towels to dab off water. Not sure if your tattoo is dry enough? Wait until your tattoo starts feeling tight. This will be your cue to apply throughout the entire healing process.

Step 4: Apply a LIGHT layer of ointment (Palmers Cocoa Butter is a great choice). Be careful to only apply enough to give it a satin shine. You can always use a clean paper towel to dab off excess ointment. 

**using too much ointment or applying too often can lead to healing complications. Note: Less is more**

Step 5: Your tattoo should remain covered for the first 3-5 days. After you’re done washing and hydrating the tattoo, wrap the area in seran wrap. 

(If your tegaderm stayed on for the recommended time, step 5 does not apply to you.)

You’re almost done! The next question is how often should you repeat the process. 

For the first week of healing, repeat the process 2-3 times a day. For the second week, 1-2 times a day. When you wake up, before going to sleep, and if you engage in any strenuous activities. Remember you only have to wrap the tattoo in seran wrap for the first 3-5 days after your session (unless you used tegaderm). After that, just wash, clean and hydrate. Remember to apply ointment whenever it feels tight and dry.

Thanks for caring for your tattoo!

Things to keep in mind when healing:

• Getting tattooed is more taxing than you’d think. Your immune system starts working to heal the “wound”. Please avoid working out for at least the first week. You don’t want your body working overtime to recover.

• You can’t submerge the tattoo in any body of water or expose it to direct sunlight until it is fully healed. So make sure you plan accordingly.

• Pets are the #1 cause of infections in new tattoos. Be mindful when petting/playing with your babies. If they sleep in bed with you, make sure you have clean sheets.

Things to keep an eye out for:

• Moisture Rash: If you see little red bumps or pimples surrounding the tattoo, specifically where you haven’t been tattooed, it’s a sign that you are using too much ointment or lotion around the tattoo. If you notice this, I recommend cleaning your tattoo thoroughly, and not applying ointment for about 12-24 hours. You should see improvements by then.

• Hot Spots: It’s small isolated spots of your tattoos that are either red, inflamed, swollen, hot to the touch, and/or discolored. This can happen when a small amount of bacteria has gotten into your tattoo, whether from contact, pet dander, or not sanitizing your hands/area before cleaning. This is an early sign for an infection. In the event that this happens, you’ll need to spot treat the area. Start by washing the tattoo really well with antibacterial soap, then wipe it down with alcohol. Once it’s air dry and tight, put Neosporin or a triple antibiotic ointment on those areas ONLY. Normal ointment can be used on the other areas of the tattoo.

Please note, while they are not common occurrences, I’d like to make sure you know what to look for and what to do in case it does happen. At the first sign of either, please contact me so I can help guide you through healing day by day. If conditions get worse, please contact your health care provider.