Aftercare

Stage one:

  • Carefully remove bandage under warm water in the shower.

For Saniderm (second skin), you may leave it on 24-48 hours depending on the size and placement of the tattoo

For clear wrap, do not leave on for more than 3-4 hours.

Redness, soreness and light bruising are normal for a fresh tattoo. Redness around the borders of your bandage (or tape) means you may be sensitive to the adhesive. Remove and do not rebandage.

  • Wash tattoo gently with warm water and unscented soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

Avoid using your bath towel to prevent contamination.

  • With clean hands, apply a very thin layer of ointment onto your tattoo.

Aquaphor or AfterInked. Avoid Vaseline or Neosporin.

Apply ointment 2-3x a day with clean hands and a clean tattoo. Do this for the next 2-3 days.

The ointment will help as scabs will start to form.

Stage two:

  • Moisturize your tattoo with unscented lotion.

Switch to applying lotion instead of applying ointment. Lotion will help keep it hydrated during the dry, flakey stage.

Flaking, dryness, peeling, scabs, patchiness, and itchiness are normal. Do not scratch, soak or pick at the scabs.

Stage three:

  • By about 3-4 weeks, your tattoo will be healed.

Remember to use SPF to prevent fading from the sun.

Infections are completely preventable

Your tattoo should NEVER be blistering or oozing yellow pus. Soreness is normal but if the area is excessively swollen and painful, your tattoo may be infected.

To avoid infection:

Keep your tattoo clean and be cautious of bacteria. Your tattoo is an open wound and an entry point for contamination.

Avoid swimming, soaking, saunas, gyms, or pet bacteria/hair.