AFTERCARE
Bandage
Keep the waterproof bandage on for 48 hours.
Avoid direct sun, heat, and hot showers while the bandage is on.
Take the bandage off by pulling it off slowly like 3M tape. (towards you not away from you). Running luke- warm water within the bandage as you pull it off will help.
Important: If the tattoo starts to leak out of the bandage during the 48 hours, or if a part of the bandage rolls up so that the tattoo is showing, take it off. It’s better to have it fully sealed or completely off because bacteria can get inside and cause infection. If you notice any excess redness outside the tattoo area or if it begins to itch or burn more any more than when we first put it on, take it off, wash it and continue aftercare steps.
About the bandage:
It is a second skin type bandage called hypafix. It is a transparent, waterproof, breathable bandage that completely seals your tattoo from dirt, pet dander, and anything gross that can get into it. It also keeps your blood, plasma, and seeping ink from drying on top of your tattoo, which can be called ink sacs. Ink sacs are nothing to be scared of, and are actually quite good for your tattoo! Compared to letting the tattoo seep and dry out in the initial 24-48 hours of healing, the bandage is allowing your tattoo slowly dry out instead.
Hypafix is latex free.
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We also have alternative options to hypafix in the occurence of prefence or allergies. Let us know if you've ever had a reaction to second skin and we will use something else.
Washing
Once the bandage is off, wash your tattoo with a NON SCENTED, ALCOHOL-FREE, soap.
I always recommend Dove Sensitive Skin bar soap to my clients. Bar soap like dial, or Neutrogena is also a good choice. Use this soap until the tattoo is fully healed. Only use your hands to wash your tattoo when it is healing.
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After you wash, let it air dry for 15-30 minutes or use a clean paper towel and pat dry. Allowing the tattoo to dry out is important before applying aftercare.
Tip:
When you shower, wait until the very end to wash your tattoo. This will prevent other soaps and shampoos from staying on it.
Aftercare
Once the tattoo is washed and dried, you can apply your aftercare.
I recommend using a tattoo branded aftercare such as hustle butter, redemption, or tattoo balm which we sell at our studio.
A little bit goes a long way with most branded aftercare. You only want to cover your tattoo enough so that it dries out again within 15-30 minutes.
If you apply too much and it still looks wet or shiny after that time, dab excess off with a paper towel. It is important that the tattoo has time to dry between applications.
Apply the aftercare 2-3 times a day until the tattoo is fully flaked and healed. Everyone is different and will have different healing times, and will flake at different rates. It’s best to use aftercare until there is a full new layer of skin formed, and then you can switch to your regular scented lotions. (10-14 days)
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Disclaimer : If you begin to notice any excess pain, redness, swelling, or unusual colouring after your tattoo appointment, please seek medical attention and reach out to me as well
GENERAL CARE & POST HEALING CARE
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Tattoos generally take two weeks to heal.
They heal similarly to sunburns.
They will get itchy! Tap or pat, don't scratch.
Avoid lakes, pools, saunas, tanning beds and creams, and generally submerging yourself in water until the tattoo is fully healed. ( two weeks at least!)
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Make sure to wear sunscreen outside once it has healed, drink lots of water and take care of your skin daily!
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Touchups are up to your artist.
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If any problems occur, please message us.
