AFTERCARE GUIDE
It takes 5-6 weeks for a tattoo to fully heal.
Proper aftercare is crucial to the healing process, and with the right care, your new tattoo will continue to look fantastic for years to come.
Proper aftercare is crucial to the healing process, and with the right care, your new tattoo will continue to look fantastic for years to come.
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What is a tattoo bandage?
A tattoo bandage (also known as 'second skin' or 'Saniderm') is a transparent, waterproof adhesive film that helps protect your tattoo from bacteria and dirt while enhancing the skin’s natural healing process.
After receiving a new tattoo, keep the bandage on for up to 3 days. A buildup of fluid (blood, plasma, ink) is normal and will aid in the healing of your tattoo. You can shower while wearing a tattoo bandage, just be careful to not peel back any edges.
If the seal of your bandage breaches before the 3 day mark (any part of the tattooed surface is exposed to air, or fluid is able to get in/out of the bandage), remove it right away and proceed to the aftercare routine.
If your artist applied a cling wrap covering (not a tattoo bandage), remove it when you get home and proceed to the aftercare routine.
Aftercare Routine
– Always wash your hands before touching a healing tattoo.
– It's easiest to remove your bandage in the shower under running water. Lift an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of hair growth.
– Gently lather the area using your hands, warm water, and a gentle fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with fresh paper towels.
– Allow your tattoo to air dry before covering it with clean, loose clothing.
– For the next 3-4 weeks, continue to wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day.
– A few days after getting your tattoo, when the skin begins to look dry or tight, introduce moisturizer into your routine: After washing your tattoo (2-3 times per day), apply a very thin layer of a light, fragrance-free moisturizer.
While your tattoo is healing…
– Do not pick or scratch your tattoo. Itchiness and flaking skin is normal.
– Do not wear tight-fitting clothing, and avoid high friction accessories around the area of a healing tattoo (jewelry, watches, purse straps, etc.).
– Do not scrub your healing tattoo with a washcloth, sponge, or loofah.
– Do not submerge a healing tattoo. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, baths, and saunas for a minimum of 2 weeks; 5-6 weeks is recommended.
– Do not expose your tattoo to sunlight. UV rays will degrade the quality of your tattoo. Do not apply sunscreen until your tattoo has fully healed (5-6 weeks).
– Do not shave or wax the tattooed area until fully healed.
general Tips
– Avoid moisturizers with a thick consistency, and avoid products with petroleum/petrolatum or lanolin. These ingredients can trap moisture and bacteria.
– Wearing dark coloured clothing is recommended in the first week of your new tattoo, as excess ink/fluids may leak onto clothes.
– Use fresh bed sheets to further prevent the chance of infection.
long-term care
– Keep your skin hydrated; apply moisturizer regularly.
– Limit sun exposure to your tattoo when possible and always opt to apply sunscreen (SPF 30+).
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SPECIFIC SCENARIOS
– If you experience an allergic reaction to the bandage adhesive (redness, itchiness around the edge of the bandage, general discomfort), remove the bandage and proceed to the cleansing and moisturizing routine. If discomfort does not improve, please seek medical attention.
– If you detect any signs of infection, such as extreme redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention and inform your artist.
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If you have any additional questions or concerns about the aftercare of your tattoo, please reach out directly to witherbloomtattoo (at) gmail.com.