Tattoo Aftercare
IF YOU LEAVE OUR STUDIO WITH TEGADERM OVER YOUR TATTOO:
LEAVE your Tegaderm on for 4 days. Do NOT remove it prior to that without contacting us first. It is normal for the edges to curl up some. This is ok. If your tattoo becomes exposed or you have a large fluid bubble (see photos below), contact the studio for instructions.
TEGADERM is water-proof. You may shower as normal. However, avoid activities that will cause excessive perspiration or repetitive movements as this may cause it to come loose prematurely.
WHEN it is time to remove the Tegaderm we prefer you to come back by the studio for us to remove it. If that is not convenient for you then remove as follows: Rub the edges of the bandage until you can get a hold of it, and GENTLY pull it free from the skin. DO NOT pull it off like you would a band-aid. This is painful and may damage your new tattoo. Stretch away from the tattoo (see photos below), against your skin, while supporting the bandage with your other hand (just how you would stretch a command strip off the wall).
ONCE bandage is off, gently and thoroughly wash the tattoo with sensitive, non-fragrance soap removing all the dried fluid from the previous days.
LET air dry. Do not use your bath towel as it harbors bacteria.
APPLY Lubriderm or any white, fragrance-free lotion, as needed to keep it moisturized.
IF YOU LEAVE OUR STUDIO WITH SARAN WRAP OVER YOUR TATTOO:
LEAVE Saran Wrap on for 3-4 hours.
ONCE removed, immediately wash your tattoo with fragrance free, anti-bacterial soap using your fingertips only, ensuring to wash all plasma off the tattoo.
ALLOW it to air dry. Do not use a cloth towel as it harbors bacteria.
ONCE completely dry, a minimum of 15 minutes later, apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor. DO NOT apply a thick layer of ointment on your tattoo. Your tattoo MUST breathe. We promise just a paper thin layer is enough.
REPEAT these steps 3-4 times per day for the first week.
AFTER the first week discontinue the Aquaphor. Wash 2-3 times per day and switch to Lubriderm or a white, fragrance-free lotion and moisturize only as needed.
DO NOT, under any circumstance, pick at your new tattoo. RESIST the urge to scratch! The tattoo itch is the real deal! That momentarily satisfying scratch may leave you with a scarred, dull tattoo. It's not worth it.
DO NOT let your animals come into direct contact with your new tattoo during any of the healing phase. This is an open wound on your body and an infected tattoo is not only unpleasant to look at but very harmful for your body. They will still love you but your tattoo will not.
