1 hour after

You will remove the wrap one hour from when your tattoo was done. This wrap should not be left on for any longer than 4 hours.

 

Washing your tattoo

Now that you have removed the wrap you will need to wash your new tattoo. Using an unscented antibacterial soap wash your hands thoroughly. Once your hands are clean run your new tattoo under some warm (not hot) water and clean with your hands only. Do not scrub or use anything like loofahs, sponges, towels or rags. Once your tattoo has been thoroughly rinsed under water to remove any blood or plasma, wash your new tattoo with the same unscented antibacterial soap. Rinse again with hands only. Once you’ve washed your new tattoo let it air dry. Do not dry with things like towels or paper towels. Although your towels may seem clean, they can still harbor harmful bacteria.

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Apply lotion

Once your tattoo has air dried you will apply some unscented unmedicated lotion. Do not use any petroleum based products or thick ointments. You’re looking for a nice thin layer of lotion that is fully rubbed in, not a glob sitting on top of the skin. Definitely DO NOT use Vaseline or Neosporin! I know some people like to use products like A&D or Aquaphor, but I do not recommend these brands. These ointments tend to be too thick and can suffocate your new tattoo. This can cause longer heal times and excessive scabbing. You will repeat this process of washing then applying lotion every morning, afternoon, and night. You do not want to excessively clean the tattoo, as this can irritate it. However, if you notice that your tattoo is looking wet or “sweaty” it is a good idea to rinse it off. Leaving this can cause excess scabbing as well.

 

Using adhesive bandages for healing (Saniderm, Derm Shield, NexCare/Tegaderm, Second Skin)

If you are using an adhesive bandage to heal your tattoo, you will leave this on for up to 5 days. If your bandage starts to leak, peel off, or you see any adverse reactions to your skin, you can remove the bandage before the 5 days are up. When it is time to remove your bandage you will do so under warm water to help clear away the adhesive. Once your bandage has been removed you will follow all of the above (washing and lotion) steps.

 

Things to avoid while healing:

Direct sunlight: If your new tattoo becomes sunburnt not only can it affect your tattoo negatively, but it can cause serious health problems and illness. Wait at least 2 weeks before allowing your tattoo to be in direct sunlight. Always make sure to use a good sun block as well on your tattoos to keep them looking their best and to avoid sun damage. 

Pets: Animals are a primary cause for tattoo infections. Make sure you do not allow your animals to lick or touch your new tattoo. If they sleep in your bed make sure your sheets have been washed before using them. Even if you do not have pets, making sure that everything is clean around you is a good idea. If you cannot avoid contact with animals an adhesive bandage is the best to use. 

Soaking: Do not soak your new tattoo in any baths, hot tubs, pools, lakes, oceans, or any kind of water other than showering for at least two weeks. Not only can soaking your new tattoo compromise the healing, but things like chlorine and bacteria can cause serious healing complications and illness. 

Gyms: Avoid working out heavily for at least two weeks. Excessive sweating can harm your new tattoo just the same as soaking it in water. Gyms are also riddled with harmful bacteria. If you are using an adhesive bandage for healing sweat can cause this to peel off, and sweat can pool up under the bandage. It also probably will not hold up well with all of the movement happening during a hardcore workout session. Stick to light exercise if possible. 

Tight clothing: Wear loose fitting clothing if possible. The friction of tight clothing can irritate your new tattoo.

 

Possible healing issues:

Itching: It is normal for your tattoo to start becoming itchy during the healing process. Do not scratch! The best way to help with an itchy tattoo is to keep it moisturized. It will not stop the itching completely, but it will help.

Peeling and Scabbing: Your tattoo will possibly peel during healing, much like a sunburn. Do not pick or peel this skin, although I know it is tempting! Peeling and picking can result in loss of ink and pigment and cause scabbing.

Redness, swelling, and pain: It is normal for your tattoo to be slightly swollen, sore and red up to a few days after receiving your new tattoo. If however the redness, pain, and swelling lasts more a couple of days or seems to be getting worse it may be cause for concern. Bruising can also happen, especially in areas where the skin is particularly thing such as ditches of elbows and knees.

“Weeping”: As your body produces plasma you may notice your tattoo starting to look wet or sweaty. This is often worsened if using too much healing products or applying aftercare before allowing your tattoo to dry completely.

Shiny tattoo: As your tattoo heals, you may notice after the peeling has ended your tattoo looks a bit shiny. This is normal! Although you can resume normal activities after the first two weeks, it will take roughly a full month before your skin fully regenerates.

Pimples and bumps: This is normally caused by clogged pores. This can happen when the tattoo is suffocated with too thick of an aftercare product. This is very common when using A&D or Aquaphor, which is why I advise against using those thicker ointments.

Puss, rashes, extreme redness, or extreme swelling: If you notice any of these, especially puss coming from your tattoo this is a sign of infection and you should seek medical attention immediately. These can also be signs of an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink itself and would need medical attention to determine the best course of action. Other signs of tattoo infection include fever, chills, blistering, excessive large bumps, sweats, and body pain. Again, if you suspect your tattoo may be infected please seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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If you have any questions or concerns please give us a call at 629-932-6204 

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Recommended aftercare products:

Lotions:                                                                                       Soaps: