Leave your bandage on overnight. It will protect your tattoo during this vulnerable first day/night. You will not need another bandage after this. (The only time you might want another “bandage” is for an elbow ditch tattoo. I suggest wrapping it loosely with Saran Wrap at night (no lotions) to prevent creasing and folding of the skin. ELBOW DITCH ONLY)
When you remove the bandage in the morning, wash the tattoo with clean hands and a mild unscented soap. Fragranced or scented soaps and lotions will burn/sting. That is why unscented products are recommended.
Do not apply any products at all for the first three days!! With my style of tattooing it requires a period of “drying out” to seal all the details and layers into your skin. You can wash the tattoo during this time, but do not put any ointment or lotions or bandages on. Just leave it alone.
Tattoos typically will go through a peeling or a flaky phase around day three or four. Once you have gone through this process, you can begin using an ointment like Aquaphor or a specific tattoo ointment (not A&D) or a fragrance free lotion(like a Lubriderm or Curel).
It is approximately 2 weeks for full healing.
Scab, peeling, flaking, itching is normal.
It is absolutely OK to let your tattoo dry out. The aftercare will not improve the healing of your tattoo! It is only for your comfort.
Typically twice a day is enough to moisturize and help with the itching and tight feeling. Let the tattoo dictate when you apply the aftercare product. If you over lube your tattoo in the beginning phase, you will experience fading and lose detail.
You do not need to be uncomfortable during the healing, but you do not want a constant grease slick on the fresh tattoo. Think “Less is more”.
Do not pick or scratch at the tattoo. Avoid hot tubs and pools for approximately two weeks. Signs of an infection are redness, intense pain, pus, oozing at the site of the tattoo. If you experience this, call your healthcare professional. Sunblock is advisable for the long term protection of your tattoo.
Feel free to email or text me if you have any questions or concerns 802-448-2192. Thank you for your trust and supporting my small business! Enjoy your new tattoo!!
