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 clean 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.