AFTERCARE

Tattoo aftercare plays a critical role in how effectively the tattoo heals, and how much color and detail is retained. Your artist will apply Saniderm - a clear, medical-grade, breathable, waterproof tattoo bandage. In the rare case you have an adhesive allergy, you will follow the traditional healing method.

SANIDERM AFTERCARE

  • Leave the bandage on for 3 - 4 days.
  • **WARNING** If there is red irritation around the bandage, this may suggest an adhesive allergy. Remove the bandage and apply a thin layer of Aquaphor once a day for the first week.
  • After the 1st day, you will see trapped blood and plasma under the bandage. Leave it alone, DO NOT pop air bubbles.
  • It is okay to shower with the bandage, but DO NOT submerge the bandaged area in water for a long period of time.
  • To remove the bandage, run warm water on it for a few minutes. Then from the top, peel in a downward motion.
  • Wash tattoo with warm water and anti-bacterial soap.
  • Apply a thin layer of non-scented lotion (Lubriderm or CeraVe) 1 to 2 times a day until the tattoo is healed (about 2 - 4 weeks).

TRADITIONAL HEALING METHOD

  • Remove the plastic wrap covering within 2 hours of getting your tattoo and do not re-wrap it.
  • Wash tattoo with warm water and anti-bacterial soap, and let air dry.
  • Ink and plasma may discharge the first day.
  • Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor once a day for the first week.
  • Starting the second week, apply a thin layer of non-scented lotion (Lubriderm or CeraVe) 1 to 2 times a day until the tattoo is healed (about 2 - 4 weeks).

GENERAL HEALING TIPS

  • Tattoos typically take a month to fully heal.
  • Do not pick at your tattoo when it begins to peel. Let it peel naturally.
  • If your tattoo is itchy, slap at it. DO NOT scratch it.
  • Do not go swimming in any body of water while your tattoo is healing. This can lead to infection and likely damage the tattoo during the healing process.
  • Apply sunscreen to a healed tattoo if it will be exposed to sunlight for a long period of time to avoid fading.