Aftercare/Healing
Proper tattoo aftercare can reduce your risk of scarring or infection. Here are a few recommendations on how to keep your new tattoo looking the best it can as well as making the process as easy as possible…
First Days
I wrap all of my tattoos with a bandage or “second skin”. I have found I get the best results when the cover is left for 3-5 days. These bandages are waterproof and meant to keep the tattooed area covered and clean. Leaving the bandage on will prevent major scabbing, itchiness, and dryness.
After Bandage is Removed
Before removing your second skin bandage make sure you’re hands are washed. It will be the easiest to remove under water. Once bandage is removed, clean tattooed area thoroughly with a non-scented soap and warm water, to remove any excess bacteria, blood and plasma. Allow to dry for 20-30 minutes. I recommend this time before applying any lotions or ointments to allow the skin to breathe and air out. I recommend fragrance free products. Apply a very thin layer. It is possible to over moisturize a tattoo, possibly altering the healing process.
Continue to moisturize every 5-6 hours for the next weeks. If no infection, skin around tattoo should feel normal about 8-10 days after. a tattoo does take weeks to fully heal. The top layers or skin need to heal and the ink needs to settle.
Do Not…
- Remove second skin earlier than 2 days after (this can damage your tattoo more and pull ink out)
- Itch or scratch tattoo or any scabbing
- Fully submerge tattoo for first week
- Expose tattoo to direct sunlight
- Aquafor for first 8-10 days (Petroleum based – can suffocate skin rather than moisturize)
Tattoos are an art, but also a medical procedure. Your fresh tattoo is equivalent to an open wound, susceptible to infection and scarring. If not properly cared for the art may not heal the way that the artist has intended. Please feel free to get in contact with me if you have any questions of the process.