Here are the absolute basics

1. Keep it Clean

2. Keep it Dry

3. Keep it Moisturized

4. Don't Scratch or Pick it, Nothing Abrassive

5. Keep it Out of the Sun

I will have used one of the following to cover your tattoo..

Second Skin:

• Keep this on for at least 24 hours. I recommend a miximum of 7 days.

• Second skin helps keep your new tattoo clean while it is on. However, if any fluids can leak out, that means bacteria can leak in, so take it off if this happens!

• If you notice a rash starting or it becomes uncomfortable, remove your bandage and follow the rest of the steps as normal.

• To remove the bandage you can take a hot shower to start loosening off the adhesive layer. This is optional, you can remove it "cold" as well.

• You will "stretch" the second skin off  (similar to taking a 3M removable sticky hook off the wall).

• There will almost definitely be a redness to the skin in the shape of  your bandage. This is normal and will fade in a day or two.

*   Some people (myself included) do react to second skin. This is likely just going to cause extra itchiness around the tattoo. If you do have this, or any reaction, to the second skin, please remember to let your next tattoo artist know so you can discuss if it's a good idea to use it again or not. If you have a serious reaction to the second skin, head into the clinic and speak with a doctor. Avoid the use of second skin on any other tattoos.

Clear Wrap or Absorbent Pad:

Leave the wrap or pad on for 24 hours if possible, overnight at least.

It will not stick to your skin, so simply remove it before you shower.

DO NOT REBANDANGE.

Tattoos are open wounds. Please keep your new tattoo clean while it heals. 

As soon as you remove your bandage, wash your tattoo.

Always wash it with your bare hand and soap suds until it is healed.

This will prefent anything from catching a scab by using something that is abbrasive or textured. 

Use a mild soap or body wash. Avoid perfumes and dyes. Avoid exfoliating products!

Pat your tattoo dry. 

No hot tubs, swimming, saunas, excessive sweating, overmoisturizing, etc. 

Keep that tattoo from excess moisture, but do keep it hydrated at a normal, healthy level.

We have all had scrapes and cuts before. When they scab, get wet and gooey, then get picked or pulled off, they leave a scar. When this happens with your tattoo scab, it also pulls the ink off with the scab. 

The ink is attached to your scab until it heals. Be gentle.

When drying your tattoo, always pat it dry. 

Keep your showers short and a bit of a cooler water temperature. 

If you go for a swim, make it more of a dunk and out. 

After you let your newly washed tattoo air dry for 12-24 hours, it is time to moisturaize. 

Depending on your skin, you will want to apply JUST ENOUGH moisturizer to keep the skin a healthy and normal level of hydrated. If you have very dry skin, you may need to apply 4-5 times a day. If you have oily skin, once could be enough. Pay attention and apply as needed.

They type of moisturizer you use is up to you and your skin type. 

For people with oily skin, I recommend a cream lotion.

For those with dry skin, sometimes you'll do well with a salve or even coconut oil. 

You do not need a special tattoo aftercare product, though I do have some available in the sudio. 

I recommend staying away from:

 

• petrolium based broducts

• things with perfumes

• things with dyes/colourants

• wound ointments

A rule of thumb I tell my clients is "if it stings or burns and keeps stinging or burning, wash it off and find something else"

Your ink is attached to your scab until it is healed. If you pick off the scab, you will likely pick out some ink, leaving a piece of your tattoo missing and possibly a scar. 

Do not use anything abrassive on your tattoo.

Try to avoid excessive rubbing in the area of your tattoo. For example, if you just got your foot tattooed, avoid tight fitting shoes or boots until it is healed. 

If it is itchy you can tickle or slap your tattoo for relief. 

Please avoid direct sun expossure on the tattoo while it is healing. 

This will help the ink set and hold better, with more vibrancy to the ink, especially colours. 

Even after your tattoo has healed, I always recommend sunscreen to keep your tattoo looking fresher for longer. 

Your handpoked tattoo may heal within as little as 1-2 weeks. 

Your machine tattoo should heal within 2-3 weeks. 

The time it takes to heal depends on the amount of work done, and your skin. The more ink packed in there means more open skin, which will require longer to heal than, say, a fine line tattoo.

Consult a physician if any of the following signs or symptoms develop: 

• Deep or prolonged redness 

• Green/yellow discharge (foul smelling) 

• Fever

• Excessive swelling

• Prolonged pain

Larger tattoos may cause some prolonged swelling, however, if this swelling is extremely painful and red you should consult a physician.