HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR TATTOO!
AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT…..
If you received second skin from your artist, keep it on! Some artists prefer not to use this, so don’t be alarmed if you did not receive it. Second skin creates a barrier that not only protects your skin from bacteria, but traps in any plasma, blood, or ink that may naturally come out. It can actually help your tattoo through the healing process, since it prevents any possible contamination. It is completely normal for your second skin to fill up a little bit, especially if it is a larger piece! It is recommended for you to keep your second skin on for 3-5 days. It should naturally start to peel around the corners after that amount of time. Gently remove your second skin under warm running water, and wash the tattoo with non-scented soap. If your second skin begins to peel over the tattoo or leak at all before the 5 days, go ahead and remove it, then wash with warm water and non-scented soap. Don’t be alarmed if your tattoo looks weird from being trapped in the moisture. This will settle in the next few days.
WASHING YOUR TATTOO…
If you did not receive second skin from your artist, be sure to keep it clean. You should gently wash your tattoo at least twice a day with warm water and non- scented soap. It is very important to keep your tattoo clean for the first few days. Watch out for the gym, pets, or working outdoors. You want to ensure you wash off any sweat, dirt, or bacteria that may build up during the day.
MOISTURISING YOUR TATTOO…
You want to moisturize your tattoo at least twice a day, after washing. You don’t need to completely coat the tattoo with a thick layer of aftercare. A super thin coat will do the job! It is important to moisturize with a non-scented lotion, so that your tattoo does not become irritated. Most artists advise against any aftercare that is petroleum based like Aquaphor or Vaseline, but it does work for some people! As long as you aren’t applying a super thick coat, your tattoo should be okay!
THE HEALING PROCESS….
The healing process is different for everyone, but as long as you are keeping it clean and moisturized it should heal perfectly. It is completely normal for you tattoo to eventually get dry and itchy. It may even begin to flake off. This is totally normal! Just be sure not to itch or peel any of the skin off your tattoo! After about two weeks, you can schedule a touchup for anything that may have fallen out during the healing process! You can also call us anytime if you have questions. Now go show off your cool new ink!