Tattoo aftercare is a crucial component in ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of your ink, as well as the overall health of your skin. Proper aftercare minimizes the risk of infection, reduces the possibility of fading, and promotes optimal healing. By following a diligent aftercare routine, which includes gentle cleansing, moisturization, and protection from sun exposure, you allow your skin to heal properly while maintaining the integrity of your artwork. Investing time and attention in this phase not only enhances the visual appeal of your tattoo but also fosters a deeper connection between the individual and their chosen piece of art.

Leave the bandage on: Keep the initial bandage or covering on for 2 to 4 hours after getting your tattoo. Consult your tattoo artist for their specific recommendations on timing.

Wash your hands: Before touching your tattoo, thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial soap and water to prevent any risk of infection. A new tattoo is an open wound, and may make your skin more susceptible to fragrance related allergies. Only use unscented or faintly scented products.
Gently clean the tattoo at least once daily: Remove the bandage and gently wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented antibacterial soap. Use your fingertips—not a cloth—to avoid irritation.
Pat dry: After washing, gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft paper towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area to minimize irritation. certain laundry detergents and fabric softeners may give some individuals skin reactions, so it is recommended to avoid using cloth towels
Apply aftercare ointment: After the tattoo is completely dry, apply a thin layer of fragrance-free tattoo aftercare ointment or lotion, as directed by your tattoo artist. Avoid using too much product as it can trap bacteria. make sure to rub the product in thoroughly.
Avoid soaking: For the first two weeks, refrain from soaking the tattoo in water. This includes baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, and oceans. You may shower as normal. avoid soaps and conditioners not recommended by your artist from touching your tattoo
Keep it clean and dry: Throughout the healing process, keep the tattoo clean and dry. If it touches anything that is unsanitary, clean it immediately.
Wear loose clothing: It is recommended that you wear loose, soft clothing during the healing process to minimize abrasion and irritation to the area. Tattoos excrete plasma and ink, and may stick to clothing or bedsheets if not properly taken care of.
Reapply ointment 3 times daily or when dry: Follow your tattoo artist’s advice regarding reapplying aftercare ointment. Generally, you can switch to a fragrance-free moisturizer after a few days.
Avoid picking or scratching: Do not pick at scabs or peel skin, as this can lead to infection and affect the overall healing and appearance of your tattoo.
Sun protection: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight during the healing process. Once healed, use a high SPF sunscreen to protect the tattoo from fading.
Monitor for signs of infection: Watch for any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, oozing, or a fever. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your healthcare provider.
Complete healing time: Understand that a tattoo typically takes 2 to 3 weeks to heal on the surface but may take up to a couple of months for deeper layers. Follow care instructions throughout this period.
Follow-up with your artist: If you have concerns about your tattoo, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist for guidance or clarification on aftercare.

Use recommended products at your own discretion. If you have sensitivities to certain products or ingredients, discuss them with your artist before Using.

Saniderm

(tagiderm/second skin/medical adhesive bandage)

Leave the bandage on for a maximum of five days: unless otherwise instructed by your artist. You may remove the bandage at any time if you prefer, making sure to care for it afterward as instructed.
Moniter the area: if the skin around the bandage is red or swollen, the tattoo seems dry underneath, the bandage is leaking, or the seal on the skin is broken, remove immediately. Clean the area and moisturize as instructed.
Removing the bandage: under clean, warm running water, carefully peel up a corner and work your way around one edge. Gripping the entire edge, slowly peel the bandage away from your skin in an outward direction. Using a small amount of soap can help separate your skin from the adhesive making it easier to remove. Clean and moisturize as instructed.
Do not soak in standing water: this can trap water and bacteria underneath, causing infection.
Keep out of the sun
Remove the bandage before going to the gym or partaking in activities that may cause perspiration.

Tips

hydrate yourself after your appointment. Drinking water keeps your skin healthy, as does your tattoo.
Avoid alcohol or blood thinning medications for 24-48 hours to lessen swelling
Avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours, including the gym
Avoid submerging in standing water
Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 3 weeks. In an ideal world, we would recommend avoiding the sun indefinitely, but we know how it goes.
always use sunblock After your tattoo is healed, use strong sunblock to lengthen the lifetime of your tattoo.
hydrate Seriously, it is the best way to prolong the brightness and integrity of your tattoo.