Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

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cling film wrapping

First 24 Hours:

1. Remove the Wrap:

   • Keep the wrap on for at least 2-4 hours after the tattoo is completed.

   • After removal, wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

2. Gently Clean the Tattoo:

   • Gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented, antibacterial soap.

   • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

3. Apply Advised Cream:

   • Apply the advised aftercare cream or lotion from the next day after your tattoo.

   • Moisturize 1-2 times a day depending on the scale of the tattoo. Larger blackout tattoos will need to be moisturized less. Be sure not to over-moisturize, as it can damage your skin and tattoo.

4. Wear Loose Clothing:

   • Wear loose clothing over the tattooed area to avoid friction and irritation.

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After 24 Hours to 2 weeks:

1. Wash Regularly:

   • Continue to wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day with lukewarm water and unscented, antibacterial soap.

2. Apply Advised Cream:

   • From the next day after your tattoo, apply a thin layer of the advised aftercare cream or lotion.

   • Moisturise 1-2 times a day depending on  of the tattoo. Larger blackout tattoos will need to be moisturized less. Be sure not to over-moisturise, as it can damage your skin and tattoo.

3. Avoid Scratching, Picking, or Itching:

   • Your tattoo will begin to scab and peel. Do not scratch, pick, or itch at scabs, as this can damage the tattoo and cause scarring.

   • Itching is normal and will begin around 4-5 days after the tattoo as it heals.

4. Avoid Excess Moisture:

   • Do not submerge your tattoo in water until after the scabbing phase is over (e.g., no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths). Avoid soaking your tattoo until it has fully healed.

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For the First Month:

1. Sun Protection:

   • Avoid direct sun exposure on your tattoo until it has fully healed. Once healed, apply SPF 30 or higher to protect the tattoo from UV damage.

2. Avoid Tight Clothing and Friction:

   • Avoid tight clothing over the tattoo, as it can cause irritation or pull the skin during the healing process.

3. Don’t Shave Over the Tattooed Area:

   • Wait until the tattoo has fully healed before shaving over the tattoo area to avoid irritation.

4. Monitor for Signs of Infection:

   • Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as:

     • Redness that worsens or spreads.

     • Swelling that increases over time.

     • Pain that intensifies.

     • Pus or yellow/green discharge with a foul odor.

     • Warmth to the touch.

     • Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell.

   • If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. For more information on tattoo infection symptoms, visit Cleveland Clinic's guide.

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Healing Stages:

1. Weeks 1-2:

   • Your tattoo will be a little red, inflammed, and possibly oozing plasma during the first few days. Peeling and itching will start around day 3-4.

2. Weeks 2-4:

   • Scabs will begin to form, and the skin may feel tight as it heals. It’s important not to scratch or pick at the scabs or to over moisturise

3. Month 1-2:

   • The tattoo should be nearly healed by the end of the first month, but the skin might still feel slightly dry or tight for up to 2 months.

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What to Avoid During Healing:

• Sun exposure or tanning beds

• Gym equipment and don’t allow the new tattoo near pets

• Swimming (in pools, lakes, or oceans)

• Picking, scratching, or itching the tattoo

• Excessive sweating (e.g., intense exercise, hot tubs)

• Heavy application of ointment or lotion (keep it thin)

• Tight clothing that may rub against the tattoo

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Important Information:

• Healing Time: Most tattoos heal fully in about 4-6 weeks. However, the process may vary depending on the size, location, and your skin type.

• Touch-Ups: If needed, you may require a free touch-up once the tattoo has fully healed. Please contact me to arrange one if you think it’s needed.

How to use skin barrier film

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skin barrier wrap

1. Leave the Film on until it comes off

• The skin barrier film is designed to stay on for several days (typically 3-5 days).

• During this time, it will protect your tattoo, keep it moisturised, and prevent infection.

• Do not remove the film early unless advised.

• 2. Check for Fluid or Fluid Buildup:

• Over the first few days, you may notice some fluid or plasma collecting under the barrier film. This is completely normal.

• If there’s too much fluid buildup or the film starts to feel uncomfortable, you can remove the film, clean the tattoo gently, and proceed with the aftercare routine.

3. After 3-5 Days, Remove the Film:

• After 3-5 days, remove the skin barrier film gently by peeling it off by pulling upwards under running water.

• This will help loosen the film and make it easier to remove without causing damage to your tattoo.

4. Clean the Tattoo Again:

• Once the film is removed, clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented, antibacterial soap.

• Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel and leave until the following day.

5. Apply Advised Tattoo Aftercare Cream:

• Apply a thin layer of the tattoo aftercare cream from the day after your appointment.

• Rub it in properly, as over-application can damage your skin and hinder the healing process.

• Ensure the cream is absorbed evenly into the skin to keep it moisturized without clogging pores or irritating the tattoo.

6. Continue with Regular Aftercare:

• Continue your usual tattoo aftercare routine, which includes applying the advised cream lightly as necessary to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.

• Avoid scratching, picking, or irritating the tattoo.

 

neck hands and face healing

• The key to primal healing in these areas is to keep the area dry for a few days
• Once the cling wrap/second barrier film has been removed please clean as advised and dry well afterwards
• For upto 3 days afterwards please keep the tattoo unmoisturised 
• Please contact me after this time period to be advised on whether the tattoo should begin to be moisturised