After Care
Each artist and studio has a unique approach to tattoo aftercare. Kira has conducted thorough research and testing to create this aftercare guide tailored to how tattoos heal for her clients.
Experienced clients may have their preferred methods and products, we respect those choices. However, we can only guarantee proper healing of your tattoo if you follow our aftercare guidelines.
Aftercare Pamphlet
Second Skin Recovery
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Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressings are versatile, medical-grade adhesive bandages used to protect IV catheter sites and wounds. They can secure devices to the skin and maintain a moist environment that promotes wound healing.
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Tegaderm is a sterile, breathable, waterproof, and germ-proof barrier designed to protect new tattoos. It acts as a shield against external contaminants, such as liquids, bacteria, and viruses. By using Tegaderm, you can safeguard your tattoo from contamination while also preventing ink, blood, and fluid from staining your clothes and sheets during the healing process.
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Your artist will apply a Tegaderm bandage during your appointment. They will begin by prepping the skin to create a sterile environment that promotes safe healing. Once the bandage is in place, it should remain on for 3 to 5 days; do not exceed 7 days. It is normal for your body to release fluids, such as blood and plasma, which may cause your tattoo to appear blurred or create a pocket of ink and fluid under the bandage. In some cases, your artist may determine that it is necessary to provide you with a replacement bandage. Please refer to the instructions below for replacement guidance.
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You may remove the bandage 3 to 5 days after application but do not exceed 7 days.
The following situations require immediate removal of the bandage:
1. If fluid buildup begins to leak out of the bandage.
2. If the bandage has lifted or rolled up enough to expose your tattoo.
Both of these scenarios create a pathway for bacteria to enter, which could lead to an infection. If either of these occur, remove your bandage immediately and proceed with traditional aftercare treatment.
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Before removing your bandage, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Begin by gently pulling one edge of the dressing straight out to stretch it and release adhesion. Once all edges are free from the skin, slowly remove the dressing by folding it over itself. Take your time pulling the bandage in different directions until it is fully removed.
Helpful tips:
Remove under warm, running water to soften the adhesive.
Stabilize your skin by gently applying pressure to the skin surrounding the bandage with one hand, then pulling the bandage with the other.
Avoid pulling the dressing up from the skin or ripping it off aggressively, as this can cause unnecessary trauma to the skin.
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Once the bandage has been removed gently clean the area using the provided soap.
Work in circular motions to remove any leftover fluids and adhesive.
Pat the area dry using a disposable towel.
Let your tattoo air dry for a few minutes. Air drying is especially important if there was any fluid build-up within the bandage.
Finally, apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment to keep your tattoo moisturized. The idea is to create a barrier but still allow the skin to breathe.
Repeat the cleaning and application of ointment process 3 times a day for 5 days. Feel free to apply additional ointment throughout the day if your tattoo feels dry or itchy.
At this point you may use switch to an unscented lotion to keep your tattoo moisturized. Apply as needed.
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Not every tattoo requires the bandage to be replaced. Only do so if your artist recommends it and provides you with a replacement bandage.
Wash your hands using soap and water.
Remove the bandage. You can use the guide above to assist you in the removal.
Thoroughly wash the area using the provided soap.
Pat the area dry using a paper towel.
Allow the area to air dry for a few minutes. A wet surface will impede the bandages ability to adhere to the skin.
Remove the white backing and carefully place your bandage over the tattoo.
Remove the clear plastic layer.
Make sure there's a border of bandaged skin around the tattoo and that the bandage covers the whole tattoo. You may overlap bandages for bigger areas.
Traditional Recovery
Your artist should have provided you with a Tattoo Wash and a sample of a recovery balm(referred to as ointment in this guide). We recommend using these products exclusively during the initial healing process. Remember to always wash your hands before handling a fresh tattoo.
First 24 hours: During this time, you must keep watch for any drying fluids on your tattoo. Dried blood or plasma can cause scabbing, which may lead to scarring or distortion of your tattoo. Any time you notice fluid buildup, gently wash the area using circular motions and reapply the aftercare ointment.
To care for your tattoo, follow these steps:
Clean your tattoo using the provided Tattoo Wash. Gently massage it with circular motions.
Rinse your tattoo thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Allow your tattoo to air dry for about a minute.
Apply a thin layer of ointment. You want to create a protective barrier while still allowing the skin to breathe. Be careful not to oversaturate, as this can trap moisture and hinder airflow.
Repeat this process three times a day for 3-5 days.
After this initial healing period, switch to an unscented lotion to keep your tattoo comfortable and moisturized during the itchy, peeling phase.
Do’s & Dont’s
Do…
Always handle your tattoo with clean hands.
Keep the area clean and moisturized.
Always use unscented products on a fresh tattoo.
Hydrate! Drink plenty of water to help your skin heal.
Nourish Your Body. After getting a tattoo, it’s crucial to continue nourishing your body, as a fresh tattoo is considered a wound that needs proper nutrition for effective healing. Focus on consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which is vital for collagen production—a key component in skin repair. This will promote faster and better healing of the tattooed area.
Rest. The tattoo process triggers various hormonal releases, which can leave you feeling tired and weak, especially after long sessions. Allow yourself some time to recuperate. You can still engage in basic activities but try not to overexert yourself.
Don’t…
Submerge your tattoo in water. Showers are fine, but stay out of pools, hot tubs, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water while the tattoo is healing.
Consume excessive amounts of alcohol and nicotine. Alcohol can dehydrate you, and Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor that reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach wounds. Both of these can delay healing.
Scratch or pick at your healing tattoo. Itching is normal during the healing process, but don't scratch the tattoo or pick off any scabs. Instead, gently rub the area with an unscented lotion to relieve the itch.
Allow pets to lick or touch the area. Do I need to explain this one?
Blow on your tattoo to relieve the burn. Our mouths are full of bacteria, which can transfer to the area through saliva.
Expose your tattoo to the sun. Sun exposure on a new tattoo can:
Damage the tattoo. Sun exposure can cause a tattoo to fade, blur, or distort. The sun's UV rays break down the ink molecules in your tattoo, and the melanin in your skin releases when exposed to the sun, which can change the color of your tattoo.
Damage your skin. A new tattoo is an open wound, and sun exposure can cause swelling, blisters, redness, itchiness, and peeling.
Extend healing time. A sunburn on a new tattoo can make it take longer to heal.
Distort the lines and coloring. A blistering sunburn can cause ink to leak out or break down, resulting in distorted lines and coloring.
Remove too much ink. When you get sunburned, your skin breaks down cells with too much UV damage, which can break down the ink pigments in your tattoo, causing it to fade, blur, or distort.
Second Skin Burns. Second skin barriers do not provide any protection against the sun. In fact, they can intensify UV rays, similar to how a magnifying glass works. Exposing your bandage to sunlight can lead to sunburn, tan lines, blistering, and other reactions.
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