Proper aftercare is key for the tattoo to heal correctly. Here is a guide which you should follow:
1. Day of tattooing
- Second skin: Upon finishing the tattoo, i will put a second skin wrap on your new tattoo. Leave it on for 5 days. This wrap protects your fresh ink from dirt and bacteria. You do not have to worry, the skin is breathing even with the wrap on. Be sure to not take baths, showering is okay.
Sometimes there will be excess fluid below the wrap, this is completely normal and is not an issue. After 5 days, gently pull the wrap off the tattoo, ideally while showering, rinse the tattoo clean with lukewarm water and clean it with antibacterial soap. If the wrap leaks or comes down earlier than 5 days, you can start looking after the tattoo.
2. After 5 days
- Washing: Wash the tattoo at least 3 times a day, exclusively with clean hands to prevent potential infection. Always use fragrance free antibacterial soap. After washing, pat dry the tattoo with a clean paper towel.
- Lotion: Moisturize the tattoo at least 3 times a day with a thin layer of lotion specifically designed for tattoo aftercare. If you do not have one, you can always buy one our studio or order it from any tattoo supply e-shop. My favorite ointment is Tiger Spit balm and shea butter.
- Scabbing: Scabs are also completely natural thing to occur because a tattoo is basically an open wound. Never peel or scratch the scabs as it can damage the tattoo resulting in blurry lines and patchy color.
- What to avoid: With your fresh ink avoid following for at least one week: Sunbathing, swimming, direct sunlight, and heavy physical activities. All of these can directly impact the chance of a possible infection.
3. After 14-21 days
- After this time period the tattoo will most likely be approaching the end of the healing process. The complete healing time differs from person to person, someone can heal a tattoo faster than someone else and vice versa.
4. Long term aftercare
- Moisturizing: Keep the skin hydrated even after the tattoo is completely healed. Regular moisturizing will help keeping the ink looking bright.
- Protection from the sun: Even after healing, it is important to protect the tattoo from the effects of the sun. Use sunscreen with high SPF.
Caution:
- Infection: If you notice any symptoms of infection (strong redness, unusual swelling, oozing pus), visit your doctors office.
- Allergies: If you have a suspicion of a allergic reaction to ink or second skin adhesive, contact your doctors office.
Following this guide, you will have certainty that your tattoo will heal properly and will look wonderful for a lifetime.
If you have any questions regarding aftercare, feel free to contact us on instagram or by e-mail 🙂 All contact informations are found on the website.
