AFTERCARE

1. (Saniderm (clear bandage)):
- Leave the bandage on for 2-3 days.
- Keep an eye on it—your bandage may leak fluid. Patch with extra saniderm provided. You can also buy 3M brand tagaderm at most pharmacies to patch your bandage if needed. If the bandage starts to come off on its own, remove it completely.
-Your tattoo will accumulate fluid beneath the bandage that you will be able to see. This will be dark or vary in color. There is nothing wrong with your tattoo, so don't worry! The fluid is helping your fresh wound heal naturally. Do not release the fluid or tamper with the bandage.
-If you suspect you are having a reaction to the Saniderm, please email me and I will advise you further. In most cases I recommend early removal if your skin is irritated.

(Black Bandage):
-Leave the bandage at least 5 hours (overnight if it’s an evening tattoo.)
-Do not remove the bandage at all during this time, as this is an important step to start the healing process and helps prevent infection when your skin is at its most vulnerable.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly. ONLY ever touch your fresh tattoo with CLEAN hands.
-Remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild unscented liquid soap and warm water.
-If you have a Saniderm bandage I recommend taking it off under running water and stretch it to help release the seal (it will sting a little to remove but your tattoo is perfectly okay underneath).
-Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel and allow to dry fully for 1-2 hours.

3. (Saniderm):
-Apply plain unscented lotion on your tattoo. Rub it in completely and do not leave any excess. Just enough should be used so that the skin is soft, not shiny. Do this 2-3 times a day for at least two weeks, or as long as your tattoo feels dry.

(Black Bandage):
-Apply a light application of Aquaphor 2-3 times a day. After 2-3 days the tattoo will start to itch. Once it starts to itch, it’s time to switch…to a non-scented white lotion! Same as above, use only a small amount, rub it in and do not leave any excess.

-A dry flaky layer of skin will form on the tattoo. Let the skin slough off naturally. Small flecks of color will come off during this process: this is normal and is not the ink coming out of your tattoo.
-Do not pick or scratch at the tattoo. Doing so could seriously affect the look of your tattoo when healed and could create scarring.
-Apply lotion as needed (when your tattoo feels itchy, dry, or tight).

5. Avoid direct sunlight on the tattoo until it has healed completely. It hurts, and may damage your tattoo as it heals. Whenever in the sun your tattoo must be covered by your clothing.
-You CANNOT use sunscreen until your tattoo is healed.
-After your tattoo has healed, be aware of the sun’s effects on it. Excessive exposure to the sun will fade and damage a tattoos appearance, especially colored pigment. Once your tattoo is healed, a regular routine of sunscreen and limited sun exposure will prolong the vibrancy of your tattoo!

6. No hot tubs, saunas, pools, or lakes until the tattoo is completely healed.
-It is necessary to shower and clean the tattoo regularly, but it should NOT be soaked in water for long periods of time. Doing soon can prematurely remove a scab and negatively affect the look of your healed tattoo.

7. Failure to follow the care directions properly can extend the healing time, cause infection, or prevent your tattoo from looking its best.
-Infection is rare, but to reduce your risk: wear loose and clean clothing, change your sheets regularly (particularly if you have pets,) only touch your tattoo with clean hands, do not allow others to touch your healing tattoo. Some warmth, redness, and irritation is normal. If you suspect infection be sure to consult a health professional at the first sign.

8. PLEASE email me if you have any questions regarding afercare.

SHOPPING LIST:

-Mild unscented liquid soap (Dial, Dr. Bronners)
-White unscented lotion (Eucarin, Aveeno, Lubriderm, Hustle Butter)