IT IS ESSENTIAL TO TAKE PROPER CARE OF YOUR NEW TATTOO IN THE DAYS AND WEEKS FOLLOWING YOUR APPOINTMENT. FOLLOWING YOUR SESSION, YOUR ARTIST WILL COVER YOUR NEW TATTOO IN ONE OF TWO WAYS — A DERM SHIELD SECOND SKIN BANDAGE, OR WITH PLASTIC WRAP.
SEE BELOW FOR OUR AFTERCARE RECOMMENDATIONS.
AFTERCARE
Our artists will typically recommend keeping the derm shield bandage on for three to four days in total following your tattoo appointment. Showering with the derm shield is completely fine, but avoid submerging or using hot water on the area directly. Moisture captured underneath the derm shield, including pooling ink/liquid, is a natural part of the recovery process and does not indicate any issues. After three to four days, carefully remove the derm shield bandage slowly and gently clean the area with fragrance-free antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel and allow the tattoo to fully dry for a few minutes before applying a very thin layer of a mild fragrance-free lotion over the tattoo. Continue to keep the tattoo clean and apply small amounts of lotion as needed to keep the area lightly moisturized.
DERM SHIELD AFTERCARE — 0001
PLASTIC WRAP AFTERCARE — 0002
The plastic wrap should be removed no more than two hours following your tattoo session. Gently clean the tattoo with fragrance-free antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel and allow the tattoo to fully dry for a few minutes before applying a thin layer of ointment (similar to Aquaphor) — you may use an unscented lotion that does not include alcohol. Make sure to rub the lotion/ointment in so that it is not shiny, or greasy– you want the thinnest amount possible. Pat off any excess ointment with a clean paper towel. Do not use Vaseline, petroleum or Neosporin. Wash, dry, and apply lotion/ointment 1-3 times daily, as needed. On the first night, you may want to wrap your tattoo in saran wrap to prevent sticking to your bedding. Do not use any cloth bandages or pads, as the fibers of this material can adhere to your open tattoo and hinder the healing process. On the third or fourth day, your tattoo will begin to peel, which is normal. Do not pick at the skin. Begin using a mild, white, unscented lotion, free of dyes or perfumes. Use lotion for minimum of two weeks, 1-2 times daily.