AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS:

Congratulations on your new tattoo! It's important to remember that your tattoo is a vulnerable open wound, so please treat it with care. The aftercare process plays a significant role in the final appearance of your tattoo. Take a moment to read and carefully follow the guidelines provided below:

​

I) GENERAL CARE:

1. The healing process typically takes up to 4 weeks. During this period, it's essential to follow the instructions and be patient with your skin.

2. Avoid exposing your new tattoo to direct sunlight. Do not apply sunscreen while your tattoo is still healing. However, once it's fully healed, remember to apply strong sunscreen when exposed to the sun.

3. Refrain from soaking your healing tattoo in water. Avoid bathing, swimming, surfing, diving, or using saunas. Additionally, minimize excessive exercising as sweat can affect the healing process.

4. Keep your tattoo away from your pets. Avoid contact with their fur and saliva, as it can potentially lead to complications.

5. Always ensure that your hands are clean before touching your new tattoo.

6. Recommended ointment options for your tattoo include Palmer's shea butter, natural coconut oil or my tattoo balm I sell at my studio.  Avoid vaseline, Neosporin, aloe vera, and oil-based lotions.

7. If you suspect your tattoo is becoming infected, it's crucial to seek immediate medical advice from a doctor.

​

​

II) SECOND SKIN:

1. The second skin applied to your tattoo is waterproof, allowing you to shower without worry.

2. Leave the second skin on for a minimum of 3 days but no more than 7 days.

3. It's normal to see discharges and the appearance of a "smudged" tattoo under the second skin. However, if the discharge starts to leak, peel off the second skin and follow the instructions in section III.

4. Avoid intense workouts and minimize sweating while wearing the second skin. Excessive sweat trapped beneath the second skin can lead to infections.

5. After 3-7 days, peel off the second skin in the shower. Wash your tattoo immediately with mild or unscented soap. Gently use your hands to remove any excess ink, blood, or plasma. Avoid rubbing with a towel, as it may cause discomfort. Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of ointment without overapplying. Remember to wash and care for your tattoo using this method throughout the healing process.

6. It's normal for your tattoo to leave an imprint on the second skin when peeled off. Rest assured, your tattoo is still intact.

7. In the rare event of experiencing redness and itchiness around the edge of the second skin, remove it and wash your tattoo.

8. Peel off the second skin immediately in the following situations, even if it's before 3 days:

   a) The liquid oozing from your skin starts to leak out of the second skin.

   b) The second skin curls up, exposing a corner or part of your tattoo. You don't have to peel it off if your tattoo remains completely sealed.

   c) You develop allergic reactions to the adhesive, such as itchiness or redness on the outer edge of the second skin.

There's no need to reapply any type of covering or bandage on your tattoo if you have to remove the second skin early. Just follow the instructions below and allow your tattoo to breathe.

​

​

III) FIRST FEW DAYS AFTER SECOND SKIN:

1. Immediately after peeling off the second skin, your tattoo is vulnerable and considered a large open wound with minimal protective layers.

2. Wash your tattoo at least once a day, following the instructions provided above. However, apply lotion only once a day. A thin layer of lotion is sufficient; avoid applying excessive amounts.

3. Minimize exercise during this period.

4. Always keep your tattoo clean. Wash your hands before handling it, wear clean clothes, use clean bedding, and keep pets away from it.

​

​

IV) ONE WEEK AFTER SECOND SKIN:

1. It's normal for your tattoo to appear flaky. Avoid picking at the flakes, as it can lead to poor healing and ink removal.

2. Some flakes may appear black, which is a normal occurrence.

3. You may experience itchiness as the flakes continue to form. Refrain from scratching your tattoo to prevent damage. Gently pat or rub the area with clean hands instead.

4. Once again, maintain the cleanliness of your tattoo. While a protective layer is forming, it's still not safe for your cat/dog to lick.

​

Your tattoo is considered healed when it stops flaking and becomes flat. By touching it with your eyes closed, you shouldn't be able to distinguish it from your un-tattooed skin.

 

Take a close look to ensure that all the lines have healed well. If you have any concerns or questions, please take a clear photo of your healed tattoo and email it to me.

I will assess whether a touch-up is necessary.