Tattoo Aftercare
DO
Wash or sanitize your hands before cleaning or touching your tattoo.
Keep your bandage on for at least one day. If was used the derm defender, you can keep it up to 4 days. It is waterproof, breathable and hypoallergenic.
When removing your bandage, rinse tattoo with warm or cold water (not hot) and pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Wash twice a day with a mild fragrance-free liquid soap. After the third day apply a thin layer of ointment (Aquaphor, A+D, bepanthen) or a mild unscented lotion (Lubriderm). All natural? Try coconut oil. Avoid lotions with fragrances or alcohol.
If possible, use freshly washed bedsheets, clothes, and towel during healing process. Disposable paper towels are great for direct contact with the tattoo when washing or drying.
DON'T
Do not scratch or pick. This removes ink and leads to infections!
Avoid direct sunlight.
For the first two weeks try to limit sun exposure - if you know you'll be out in the sun for prolonged periods, wear a thin layer of clothing over the tattoo. After the first two weeks (or scabbing is complete), use a high SPF sunscreen on your tattoo when in the sun. Avoid tanning beds for at least a month.
Avoid soaking in any waters (lake, ocean, bathtub, pool) for the first month, especially critical during the first two weeks.
Avoid heavy sweating in the area of your tattoo for one week. Wash after sweating.
Do not let your tattoo stick to sheets or clothing. If stuck, soak the cloth to remove rather than ripping it off. This is usually only a concern for the first night when it will be a bit oozy.
EXPECT
Ink and plasma may seep to the surface, especially the first day. This is normal. If you have the derm defender on, it will help to keeps the plasma on the skin since it helps to heal faster.
For the next week the tattoo and area around it may be slightly swollen, red, and sore.
Within a few days to a week, a thin scab should form evenly over the tattoo and peel like a sunburn. (Do not pick at it!)
The color may seem dull or uneven while the tattoo is healing.
It should be completely healed in one month!
Enjoy your tattoo forever! For best results, avoid sun exposure (wear SPF), and keep moisturized.