Tattoo Aftercare

I know, it’s a little overwhelming taking care of your new tattoo. Have no fear, it is much more simple than you think. Here are the basics:

Keep it clean. Keep it moisturized.

  • Use any unscented antibacterial pump soap to clean your tattoo 1-2x a day, I love Dial or Softsoap

  • Use any unscented and uncolored plain lotion in a pump for moisture as your body tells you to, I love Curel or Lubriderm

But just incase, here is a little more information about taking care of your new tattoo…

Please do not hesistate to message me directly with any questions or concerns.

With Saniderm

  • Wear bandage for 3-5 days from time of application, shower with bandage on

  • Do not remove bandage until ready, once it comes off it does not go back on

  • Fluid under the bandage is totally normal

  • Rolled up edges can be trimmed so long as the tattoo is still covered, should any tattoo become exposed, remove bandage and begin aftercare

  • Any sign of irritation, please remove bandage, clean and begin aftercare

  • Removal of bandage should be done in the shower under warm water, take your time working the bandage off the skin, clean with antibacterial soap (no exfoliants or body washes)

  • Baby oil will remove any remaining adhesive on the skin just be sure to cleanse any oil off skin afterward

  • Wear loose, breathable clothing, perhaps in a dark color to avoid staining, for the first day after removal

  • Leave tattoo alone for about 24 hours until you begin moisturizing to allow pores to close and layer of skin to develop over the top

  • Clean tattoo 1-2x a day for the first 7-10 days

  • Moisturize tattoo as your body tells you to, usually 2-5x a day, using a plain unscented lotion

Without Saniderm

  • Remove plastic wrap and bandaging within two hours of application

  • Immediately shower and gently clean tattoo with antibacterial soap

  • Finish shower with cold water to close pores

  • Pat dry with a soft, clean towel

  • Wear lose breathable clothing, perhaps in a dark color to avoid staining, for the first 24-48 hours

  • Shower 1-2x a day for the first 3 to 5 days after tattoo to keep clean

  • Begin moisturizing as your body tells you to, if it is dry feeling, it needs lotion. Always apply with a clean hand, just enough product to soak into the skin. Usually 2-4 times a day.

  • Moisturize daily until healed, usually 2-4 weeks

Be Mindful Of…

  • Cleanliness — Keeping your tattoo is the most important part of the healing process. It is an open wound and should be treated as such. Do not let people touch your tattoo, do not let pets lick your tattoo. Avoid traveling, working out and “dirty” activities such as gardening in the first week or so of the tattoo. Showers are great for tattoos.

  • Avoid soaking your tattoo— This means no swimming, bathing, excessively sweating, saunas, steam rooms, etc. until your tattoo is healed.

  • The wrong products — Avoid products with scents and colors as this is where alcohols show up and will burn your tattoo. No oils, butters, balms or petroleum based products either, these are too heavy for tattoos.

  • Over/ under moisturizing — Much like healing a bad sunburn, your body will let you know when it needs to be moisturized. Just enough product to soak in to the skin. It is better to use less product more often than too much at once.

  • Damaging your tattoo — It is normal for your tattoo to get a bit crispy in the healing process. Please do not pick at any skin flakes, with proper moisture they will fall off on their own.

  • Take care of your WHOLE self — Your body is working hard to heal your new tattoo. Please avoid excessive drinking of alcohol while your tattoo is fresh. It will slow down the healing process and make you more vulnerable to infection.