Congratulations on your new tattoo!
Please follow these aftercare instructions to ensure an easy healing and beautiful new tattoo:
1. Leave the piece of bandage (Saniderm/ Derm shield) on 24 hours up to 3 days. It is normal for it to fill with fluid, especially with color tattoos. It is waterproof so you can shower and go about your day without having to mess with it. Large or color tattoos may seep fluid under the bandage.
2. To remove the bandage and clean it, it’s best to do in the shower. Hot water and soap will help to peel it off. It is really stretchy so it does come off easily. Clean it gently with a mild liquid soap. Do not scrub very hard. Liquid Dial Gold Soap works well for cleaning.
3. After you are out of the shower, let the tattoo air dry or gently dab it with a towel. After you are done with the bandage, it should have healed you past the point of scabbing so you skipped that phase of the healing process. It might be in the final peeling phase where it looks like sunburn peeling skin.
4. Once the bandage is removed from your tattoo, continue to care for it by gently washing it at least twice daily (morning and night) with a gentle antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel. After allowing it to air dry for an additional 5-10 minutes, apply a thin layer of white, unscented lotion by gently massaging it into the tattooed skin in small, circular motions. Stick to this daily routine for the next 1-2 weeks while the tattoo remains slightly hypersensitive to touch and until the tattoo is no longer peeling, dry, or cracked.
5. Never pick, scratch, or peel your tattoo. You could get an infection or remove the color. If you think your tattoo is infected or isn’t healing properly, see your doctor. You want to keep your tattoo dry and out of direct sun to give it the best chance to heal properly. When you leave the tattoo shop, your ink will be bright and shiny. But remember, all tattoos fade over time. Always apply sunscreen on your tattoo, especially in the summer, to keep the colors bright. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for best protection. Moisturize your tattoo daily, especially if it’s on an area of your body, such as your hands, where it can fade quickly. Please avoid swimming during the first 2 weeks.
6. If you think your tattoo needs a touchup in the first 3 month after getting it, please schedule a free touchup session through my website. If it's a touchup past 3 month, please email me with a photo and a description what you would like to get touch up'd.
Enjoy your new tattoo art!