TATTOO AFTERCARE WITH RECOVERY
Leave your second skin on for at least 4-5 days. During this time, your tattoo is going to weep and the bandage is going to fill up with body fluids called plasma. This plasma will also mix with excess pigment and create a murky colored fluid that will most likely cover your tattoo. This is completely normal so don't panic! Your bandage is also breathable and water proof so there is no need to worry about it getting wet during showers.
NEVER touch your tattoo unless you have clean hands. Germs and bacteria are everywhere and a healing tattoo needs to be properly cared for.When you are ready to remove the second skin, it is best to do this in the shower. Place your tattoo under lukewarm water and slowly remove the bandage carefully. Immediately wash your tattoo with non scented antibacterial soap and your hand. Do not use any other washes or soaps with a perfume scent. Gently massage the tattoo; make sure it's not slimy. NEVER USE A RAG OR LOOFA or anything but your hand to wash the tattoo!Rinse the tattoo and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Let air dry for 10 minutes.Apply a small amount of unscented lotion to the tattoo (brands such as Aveno or Jergens are recommended). NEVER use any OILS, ANTI-ITCH CREAMS, HEALING CREAMS, NEOSPORIN, AQUAPHOR, ECT....Repeat the washing and lotion steps once a day until your tattoo is healed. If your tattoo appears dry apply lotion as needed.
DO NOT wrap again after second skin is removed.If you have a reaction to the second skin please reach out to me.Your tattoo may still peel, flake, or itch. Be sure NOT to pick or scratch the tattoo as that may damage the new skin, and NO anti-itch creams.No bath, pools, hot tubs OR ANY BODIES OF WATER! Showers only.Try to wear loose breathable clothing during healing and avoid clothing/bedding sticking to it
STANDARD AFTERCARE
If it comes off before the 4-5 days, you will have to take care of it like a regular tattoo. Instructions will be below!
Wash your hands prior to removing bandage. Immediately wash tattoo with warm water and non-scented anti-bacterial soap. Repeat until tattoo is no longer slimy or glazed.DO NOT USE A WASHCLOTH - washcloths may harbor bacteria that can cause skin infections.Pat or dab (do not rub) the tattoo with a piece of paper and allow to air dry for at least 10 minutes.
Apply a very thin veil of ointment (aquaphor).Repeat washing daily and apply ointment whenever the tattoo feels dry (for at least 7 days). Repeat 3-4 times a day.
DAILY CARE
Always wash your hands with liquid soap and warm water prior to touching your tattooAlways keep the tattoo free from grease, chemicals, general dirt, or exposure to biohazards (such as uncooked meats). If the tattoo becomes soiled, wash it with soap and warm water and air dry it.Do not expose the tattoo to sunlight for at least 4 weeks.Do not use tanning beds for at least 4 weeks.Do not soak tattoo in water (avoid bathing for 2 weeks; avoid public swimming pools and hot tubs for 4 weeks).Do not allow shampoo or rinse/conditioner to come into contact with your tattoo.Profuse sweating has the same effect on new tattoos as soaking in water. If you work out (especially cardiovascular or aerobic), take some time off.Wear loose clothing that can allow your healing tattoo to breathe.Do not pick or scratch new tattoos.After 4 weeks, apply sun block to the tattoo if it is to be exposed to the sun.
SIGNS OF INFECTION
Swelling and redness that increases around the tattoo.A severe burning and throbbing sensation around the tattoo.Increased tenderness and increasingly painful to touch.An unusual discharge (yellow or green) with an offensive smell.