Aftercare

I will have likely given you a bandage called Saniderm. This bandage is a clear film with an adhesive on one side. It will act like a fake scab and keep your tattoo protected for up to 5 days. This is what hospitals use for burn victims and to secure IVs. If you opt out of this bandage please refer to the second half of these instructions.

You may notice some fluid build up under your bandage. This fluid is a mix of blood, ink and plasma. If you notice it really start to build up and form a bubble underneath your bandage I would recommend taking it off and continuing with the care instructions below. If you don’t see any fluid or there’s just a thin gloss, I would recommend leaving it on for the full duration.

There is a very small possibility that the bandage could irritate your skin. If this happens you will notice your skin turn red around the edges. It will not be underneath the bandage, but around it. If you see this, do not panic. It’s not dangerous and will not harm your tattoo. Just take it off and continue with the aftercare as normal.

Your tattoo will feel like a bruise the next 2-4 days. If it hurts past that please let me know.

Once you take the bandage off wash it with warm water and mild soap. Mild soap means no bar soap and no body wash. Preferably a hand pump soap, something that sits by the sink. If you have sensitive skin or you’re allergic to fragrances get something that’s unscented. Otherwise you’re good to use what you have.

Pat your tattoo dry with a paper towel. Never use a cloth towel. Cloth towels have bacteria in them and there’s nothing you can do to get it out.

Once your tattoo is dry apply a thin layer of lotion to your tattoo. I recommend Aquaphor, Lubriderm or Aveeno. As long as the lotion is unscented and water-based it can be used for aftercare. Make sure the lotion comes from a pump or squeeze bottle. Do not buy the jar, jars of lotion can become contaminated very easily.

You should apply the lotion 2-3 times a day everyday until your tattoo is completely healed.

In about a week you will notice that your tattoo is starting to flake. It may come off in large patches, especially if there’s any color involved in the tattoo. Do not pick or scratch at your tattoo. If you pull off the scabs prematurely you will risk pulling the ink out of your skin and damaging the tattoo.

Your tattoo will also get very itchy. Do not touch it!

In about two weeks your tattoo should be completely healed. In the meantime no bathtubs, hot tubs or swimming pools. You can take a shower but no soaking of any kind.

Do not workout for 3-4 days after getting your tattoo. Working out raises your blood pressure and can potentially push the ink out of your skin, or cause a blowout.

If you have any further questions please either send me an email or DM me on Instagram.