Aftercare Matters
Recovery Derm Shield (clear bandage)
Once the bandage is placed, you don’t have to worry about it until removal. You can shower with it on, but do not soak it. Leave the bandage on for 2 to 3 days total unless a hole gets poked in it. When you remove the bandage be as gentile as possible, the adhesive is very strong. DO NOT rip it off like a bandaid. Often removing it in the shower is helpful. Some people have reactions to the adhesive itself that can look like a rash. Send me an email if you notice anything like this or have any questions.
After your bandage is removed gently wash your tattoo 2 to 3 times a day using a non scented anti-bacterial soap. Pat your tattoo dry, do not wipe, with a clean towel. Follow up with a thin layer of non scented lotion. I usually recommend Gold Bond, Cerave, Eurcerin ect. Avoid anything thick or greasy like Aquaphor or Vaseline as it can clog the skin and make the healing worse.
Avoid the sun and water. Do not swim, soak or sunburn until fully healed. Do not pick at your tattoo, and try to wear loose fitting clothing if possible.
Your tattoo will flake and itch as it heals, this is completely normal. Do not scratch your tattoo, instead slap or tap the area to help the sensation.
After tattoo has fully healed apply lotion and sunscreen when needed to help the longevity.
Temporary bandage (black bandage)
You can take your bandage off within 2 hours of being sent home. Gently wash your tattoo and let air dry (washing instructions below). Avoid touching your tattoo or letting anything else touch it if possible. This is an open wound, so just keep that in mind. If I sent you home with extra bandages, you can use those overnight but remove it and wash in the morning.
After your first night gently wash your tattoo 2 to 3 times a day using a non scented anti-bacterial soap. Pat your tattoo dry, do not wipe, with a clean towel. Follow up with a thin layer of non scented lotion. I usually recommend Gold Bond, Cerave, Eurcerin ect. Avoid anything thick or greasy like Aquaphor or Vaseline as it can clog the skin and make the healing worse.
Avoid the sun and water. Do not swim, soak or sunburn until fully healed. Do not pick at your tattoo, and try to wear loose fitting clothing if possible.
Your tattoo will flake and itch as it heals, this is completely normal. Do not scratch your tattoo, instead slap or tap the area to help the sensation.
After tattoo has fully healed apply lotion and sunscreen when needed to help the longevity.