Tattoo Aftercare w/ Bandage

What to expect while healing:

Your tattoo will take about 2-4 weeks to heal. It will be tender for the first few days, it may develop light scabs and appear dry, this is OK! The scabs or dry skin will eventually flake off, don’t soak them in ointment or lotion, it’s important to let the tattoo be somewhat dry and breathe during this period. The tattoo may look light or discolored, this is normal, and part of the healing process. The last stage of healing your tattoo it may look shiny or waxy, that means its healing, great job!

Directions:

1)- Leave the bandage on for anywhere between 3-6 hours.

2)- Wash your hands first then remove the bandage and do not re-bandage it. If the bandage feels stuck while removing it, wet it with warm water and it will help it slide off.

3)- Wash the tattoo gently, it will feel slimy, but do your best to rinse away most of the sliminess (this is blood & plasma, lessening the amount on the surface of your skin should reduce the chance of scabbing) using mild soap and warm water, rinse the tattoo off and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Please do not dry or scrub your new tattoo with a washcloth!

4)- Always make sure to wash your hands before touching your healing tattoo! Keep the tattoo area clean and on day 3 you can start to apply your favorite unscented, white lotion or ointment. I personally prefer Lubriderm. Don’t over lotion your tattoo, just a 2-3 times a day should be sufficient. Avoid a sticky layer of lotion on your skin. Use just enough to absorb into your tattoo.

Do’s and Don’ts for healing tattoos:

  • You can shower as normal, but for at least the first 2-3 weeks of the healing period, do not submerge or soak your tattoo in any way. No swimming, hot tubs or saunas, it will interfere with the healing process and could cause infection or scarring.

  • Don’t expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for at least the first 2 weeks of the healing period, keep it covered with clothing. After your tattoo is healed please wear sunscreen on it to prevent fading and sun damage.

  • Don’t wear tight, dirty or irritating clothing over your tattoo while it’s healing.

  • Strenuous exercise or excessive sweating for the first week after your appointment are discouraged.

  • Do not let pets touch your fresh ink! No licks or cuddles with your healing tattoo!

  • Don’t pick your tattoo. If you have scabbing, let them fall off naturally. If your tattoo itches, apply lotion to relieve it.

  • Continue caring for the tattoo by washing and moisturizing as needed, until the tattoo is fully healed. The tattoo may appear to be fully healed on the surface, however, deeper layers of skin will still be repairing for 2-4 months. We recommend a good moisturizing & sunscreen regimen for this entire period. A good example of a fragrance free moisturizer to use is Lubriderm w/ a light coating of sunscreen for added protection.

*If you do not take proper care of your tattoo there is a risk of infection. If you think your tattoo might be infected, please contact a healthcare professional as antibiotics may be necessary. Signs of an infection can include swelling, pain, oozing, irritation and/or redness.