**FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE TATTOO CARE INSTRUCTIONS FROM A PROFESSIONAL AND YOUR TATTOOS WILL LAST LONG AND LOOK GREAT!** |
Before your tattoo session Refrain from heavy drinking for 24 hours. A good application of lotion is healthy to prepare the skin, and if you have the ability to trim or shave the area before, it hastens the process. Be sure to get a good nights rest and eat a decent, well balanced meal before you arrive. Be relaxed, centered, and all will go well. Your tattoo drawing will not be sent to you ahead of time unless under special circumstances. If you've described and provided references, I should have no trouble creating the design your'e looking for. If any minor changes need to be made, it's fairly simple to do that the day of your appointment. |
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
Leave your Saniderm/Tegaderm (the clear bandage) on your tattoo for 2-4 days. This bandage is water resistant, and breathes oxygen through it. Some blood and plasma may build up inside, but this is ok. If it feels like an excess, make a tiny hole in a corner and you can drain it a bit.
*while the bandage is on, you do not need to do anything.
*occasionally, if you have sensitive skin, the adhesive may leave a light rash around your tattoo. Do not panic, it will go away quickly after the bandage is removed. If you feel its excessive after it has been removed, please consult your artist.
Removing bandage is simple. In a shower or under a sink, run warm water over the bandage and gently peel it off by a corner. Unscented soap will help, such as Dial Gold. Wash the tattoo of ink, blood and plasma, and gently pat dry. Apply an unscented, undyed lotion with Vitamin E to the tattoo after it has fully dried. Lubriderm, Jergins, Cedaphil, or similar products are recommended.
Avoid Vitamin E oils as they can over saturate your tattoo. It shouldn't scab much, but avoid picking at it if so.
You should avoid heavy soaking of your tattoo for the first few weeks, ie swimming, hot tubs, long baths.
Showers will be fine.
Avoid excessive sunlight or tanning on your tattoo, especially for the lighter colored tattoos. UV rays slowly break down the pigments that make up your tattoo. Keep your tattoo looking fresh longer by using sunscreen and occasionally lotion keeps your skin healthy.
WHEN TO CALL A DOCTOR
An infected tattoo will be warm to the touch, inflamed and painful with light pressure. The skin may also ooze puss or have a rash. If signs of infection arise, consult your artist and a doctor immediately. These are rare situations, and an easy save if taken care of properly, so don't panic