Aftercare
From this point on, your tattoo artist is no longer responsible for any infections or problems you may have with your tattoo if you don’t take proper care of it, please review the information below before and after your appointment.
It is very important that you follow these guidelines since your tattoo is an open wound.
Wash your hands every time before removing your bandage / washing your tattoo / applying aftercare.
I generally do not recommend petroleum based ointments in my aftercare:
Aquaphor, Vaseline, A&D, or anything scented.
You may choose one of two aftercare methods:
1) The Standard Bandage - I apply a Hemp water based product to the skin, which relieves inflammation, pain and irritation.Then I cover your tattoo with an absorbent pad and / or barrier wrap. Remove in 30-60 minutes.
2a) * Saniderm Bandage - A clear adhesive bandage, this locks in the body’s natural moisture and healing enzymes, allowing the body to heal itself in the most efficient manner possible. After skin has been injured, healing elements are produced to help break down dead tissue and rebuild new tissue. Saniderm allows the skin to continue to function as normal because the bandage is permeable to oxygen and water vapor (breathable). In addition, this product protects against dirt and germs while eliminating friction and other irritations that might further interfere with the healing process.
2b) You will have the option to wear a second Saniderm bandage after removal.
* Unfortunately you cannot use this product if you have a latex or tape adhesive allergy.
Products
Soap:
Dial gold unscented antibacterial hand soap
Softsoap unscented antibacterial hand soap
Lotion:
Eucerin unscented body lotion
Lubriderm unscented body lotion
24 hour + Bandages:
* Saniderm
* Avoid if you have a latex or tape adhesive allergy.
2a ) Saniderm Bandage
Keep the first applied bandage on for anywhere from 3 to 24 hours, depending on how much the wound is weeping. Replace within 24 hours.
It’s fine if there is some plasma/blood/lymph fluid buildup under the bandage during this period, but don’t leave it longer than 24 hours.
To remove, find an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of your natural hair growth. The shower is the ideal place to remove this product. Running water will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable. Dry removal of Saniderm may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin.
Discard the used bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild fragrance-free soap.
Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a paper towel.
Wash and Treat morning and at night until healed (twice daily).
If you are going to apply a second bandage please see
"2b) Saniderm Second Bandage"
for instructions after your removal.
Fragrance Free
Lotion Treatment
After 2-4 days you may start applying a light, even coat of unscented lotion.
Wash the area before reapplying lotion, follow with blotting dry your tattoo with paper towel. You don’t want to put lotion on a wet scab.
It's best to follow your scheduled twice daily washings with the application of your lotion so you do not over wash your tattoo as this can lead to dryness and irritation.
Apply lotion as needed or twice daily for the next 7-10 days, using too much or applying too often can irritate your tattoo.
FAQ
Q: I received the Standard Bandage after my tattoo, can I rebandage it after cleaning it?
A: No, you never want to rebandage your tattoo if you are using the Standard Bandage. However, products such as Saniderm have a rebandaging option.
Q: Is it normal for my tattoo to have blood or ink residue after I remove my bandage?
A: Yep! Your skin is now working to seal the scar; you will notice a small amount of blood, plasma, or ink at the surface of your skin when you remove the bandage.
Q: When can I shower?
A: Anytime, you can even take a shower while you remove your bandage if that's easier. If you get body soap or shampoo on your tattoo, remove it quickly with water and don’t let the shower head hit your tattoo directly.
Q: Can I use sunscreen on my tattoo?
A: After your tattoo if fully healed you can protect it with a minimum of 30SPF sun block.
1 ) The Standard Bandage
Leave the bandage on for 30- 60 minutes, try not to exceed this time. Open flesh is a breeding ground for bacteria and infection and you don’t want to leave it covered for too long.
After washing your hands, remove bandage and dispose. Use lukewarm water and antibacterial unscented soap to gently wash away any ointment, plasma, or blood away, to completely clean the area.
Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive, you may use your fingertips to wash your tattoo.
Use a clean paper towel to gently pat the area dry. Since paper towels are disposable it is the cleanest way to dry your tattoo.
Wash again before bed.
Wash and Treat morning and at night for the next 2 to 3 weeks or until healed (twice daily).
2b ) Saniderm
Second Day Bandage
Clean and dry application area.
Ensure all residues have been removed from the skin.
TIP: Cutting the edges of the bandage to be round will help it adhere better and feel more comfortable.
Cut Saniderm bandage to allow at least a 1-inch border around the application area. Peel off the paper backing to expose the adhesive side.
Starting at either the top or bottom of your tattoo, apply to the center of the application area. Use light pressure to smooth the bandage from the center outward, avoiding large air bubbles.
When adding the follow up bandage pieces, over lay them at 1/2-1 inches over the previous bandage until your tattoo is covered.
This second application can be worn for 3-5 days. Do not wear Saniderm for more than 7 days consecutively.
Things to Avoid
During Healing
Swimming or soaking your tattoo in a bath, hot tub, or any body of water, can cause serious damage and should be avoided for at least 3 weeks or when fully healed.
Avoid any activity that causes you to sweat heavily, like exercising or being out in the hot sun.
Submerging or heavily sweating over your new tattoo can cause irritation, increase risk of infection or disturb the healing process.
Anything your tattoo touches should be clean, like bed sheets and clothing.
Keep your new tattoo away from pets, dander, dirt or public surfaces while healing to reduce the risk of infection.
