here’s a general guideline of how to care for your new tattoo!
each tattoo heals differently depending on its style; larger and darker pieces heal differently from line-work and or shaded pieces.
regardless, keep your aftercare simple — keep it clean, out of the sun, and moisturized.
DAYS 1 - 3
with clean hands, remove the film/bandage if you were given one! while removing, please do so gently and slowly under warm water. this video demonstrates the way I recommend to remove saniderm/dermashield/secondskin.
to get rid of the adhesive residue (if there is any), use unscented, antibacterial soap and warm water to gently clean your tattoo. then, pat dry with a clean paper towel.
within these first three days, you can leave your tattoo alone! only clean the tattoo if needed using the steps above.
during this time, you do not need to moisturize your tattoo.
DAYS 4 - 7
at this point, your tattoo may become itchy and or flaky. this is when moisturization comes in c:
around this time frame, you may begin to start moisturizing. note: completely dry healing is also an option, but generally light moisturizer ensures the best heals!
when moisturizing, apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturizer of your choice with clean hands.
I highly recommend Lubriderm, Cetaphil and Vaseline Lotions over any jelly or petroleum based product such as aquaphor, vaseline, or a&d. with petroleum products, it’s easier to over moisturize your tattoo, increasing the possibility of infection by trapping bacteria. i would also avoid tubs/containers of kind and stick to squeeze-tubes, sticks or pumps to lessen the likelihood of bacteria spread.
if you do decide to use a jelly/petroleum based product, please apply sparingly!
an alternative form of moisturizer is coconut oil :).
regardless of your choice of moisturizer, please only moisturize as needed — no more than 3x a day. once in the morning, once to alleviate any itchiness or flakiness you might experience, and optionally once at night.
you do not need to purchase any special products that are advertised specifically for tattoos!
AFTER 1 WEEK
the skin surface should be healed within this week! however, underneath the surface, full recovery may take a couple more weeks-months.
though the tattoo is healed, it may still be itchy from time to time.
please keep the tattoo protected and out of the sun!
TATTOOS ARE WOUNDS WITH INK, TREAT THEM AS SUCH!
General Do’s & Don’ts
DO
moisturize sparingly
tap/pat to alleviate itches
use sunscreen once healed
use any prescribed ointment if you have a skin condition — as long as you are sure it’s safe to use
keep the tattoo covered from the sun with breathable clothing
DONT
go swimming
sunbathe
perform strenuous activity within the first 4 days (especially with larger and darker pieces)
let your pets near the tattoo (can lead to bacterial infection)