Aftercare Suggestions

DO

• Plan to be sore the first couple of days following your tattoo. Accommodate yourself with a day of rest.
• Wash your hands with soap before touching your tattoo. Be aware of pets, and other hands wanting to touch.
• Keep the "Second Skin" bandage on for 2-3 days.
  
• Depending on the area of your body. Some areas will require re-bandaging with a new layer of "Second Skin".
• If any external liquids (water or sweat) get under the "Second Skin" remove it immediately and wash with mild soap and warm water, let air dry. 
• Listen to your body, if the tattoo feels overly uncomfortable or hot or irritated, remove the "Second Skin", wash the tattoo and let it air dry, and apply a thin layer of ointment - less is more: more often. Keep the ointment on hand to apply throughout the day.
• for the first night you may ice the area to reduce any heat or swelling. 
• After "Second Skin" has been removed, wash twice a day with mild soap. Get a nice lather to remove any plasma and older ointment.
• Apply a thin layer of ointment for first 2-3 days. Then switch to a mild, unscented lotion. 
• Lotion will keep colors looking bright and saturated for the life of your tattoo.

DON'T

• Do NOT reuse the "Second Skin". If, after the second or third day of the initial "Second Skin" your tattoo needs re-dressing, a new piece of "Second Skin" will be supplied or you may purchase "Tegaderm" from most drug stores.
  
• Do not scratch or pick. This may remove ink and can lead to infections. Gently rub or pat itchiness with cloth.
• Avoid direct sunlight for the first 2 weeks of healing. Use a high SPF sunscreen on your tattoo when in the sun, for the life of your tattoo.
• Avoid tanning beds, in general.
• Avoid prolonged soaking in any waters (lake, ocean, bathtub, pool) for two weeks. This may be adjusted with more or less time depending on amount of surface area tattooed and speed of healing.
• Avoid heavy sweating and friction in the area of your tattoo for two weeks. Wash with soap and warm water after sweating and apply fresh ointment as needed.
• Do not let your tattoo stick to sheets or clothing. If stuck, soak the cloth with warm water to gently remove.

EXPECT

• Ink and plasma may form or pool up under the surface of the bandage, this is normal, however, if the skin around the tattooed area looks irritated or redness occurs after the first 24 hours of getting the tattoo, remove the bandage and DO NOT reapply a new bandage.  
• The tattoo and surrounding area may be swollen, red, and sore for at least a week.  
• Within a few days or a week, a thin scab should form evenly over the tattoo and peel like a sunburn. (Do not pick at it!)  
• All skin is different, shading and certain colors may fade during the healing process.​
• The color may seem dull or uneven while the tattoo is healing, give it time and trust. Touch ups are always available.