Tattoo Aftercare
Aftercare
+wash tattoo 3-4 times a day with antibacterial soap. Pat dry with clean paper towel or let air dry. Reinforce with a thin layer of ointment or lotion. Moisturize about 7-8 times a day, and be sure that your products are free of alcohol or fragrance. Good examples would be aquafor, cerave, lubriderm, shae butter, or coconut oil. Use sunscreen to protect your tattoo.
+too much lotion will restrict your skin from being able to breathe, so be sure to apply very thin layers each time. Do not use things like neosporin, or heavily scented body washes or lotions since they contain alcohol. You should be able to get all of your aftercare products from Walmart or any pharmacy.
+bactine is optional, but it's a great tool for aftercare in the first few days. It alleviates pain and swelling while aiding in killing bacteria. Only use after reading the ingredients, and be aware that this product contains lidocaine
+your tattoo will get itchy, and scabby. Do not pick or scratch it. Moisturize it, or slap it when this happens. Slapping it will cause blood to flow to the surface and alleviate some of the discomfort.
+no soaking, pools, hot tubs, or tanning for 6 weeks. Avoid drinking alcohol. Keep pet hair off of the tattoo. Drink plenty of water and be sure to take some vitamins to keep your skin happy. Be sure to give the tattoo some time to breathe when possible.
Things to avoid
+pools, hottubs, soaking.
+picking and scratching.
+pet hair.
+products with alcohol & fragrance.
+tight clothing in area.
+neosporin
+sun exposure.
Post Tattoo (saniderm)
+you will leave your appointment with an adhesive bandage unless you have allergies to strong adhesive. It’s optional, so if you’d prefer saran wrap please just let me know.
+the bandage is waterproof, so you can shower with it on. You will notice plasma, blood, and ink collecting under the plastic. It's good for the tattoo because it keeps the tattoo moisturized and reduces scabbing.
+you are more than welcome to apply another bandage such as secondskin, dermashield, saniderm, tegaderm, etc, however it’s optional. You can order any of the above listed brands online for your own personal use.
+to apply new bandage, wash your hands first. Wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap, rinse with clean water and clean paper towel. Spray bactine (optional). Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Make sure there are no hairs, paper towel particles etc before applying. Then you are all set to apply bandage with clean hands. Have someone help you if it’s in a hard to reach area. You can leave the bandage on for another few days, but do what feels right to you.