Tattoo Aftercare <3
1. Leave your adhesive bandage on for 12-36 hours. (24hrs recommended)
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During this time, plasma and ink will begin to come to the surface and collect under your bandage. This is totally normal and good!
- While the bandage is on, feel free to shower – the adhesive will keep your tattoo safe from bacteria while allowing your skin to breathe as it begins to heal.
2. When it’s time to remove your bandage, take it off under warm running water and slowly peel the adhseive down and away (like you would remove a command strip from a wall). Some people are sensitive to these adhesives so just be aware of that and be gentle with your skin. Immediate redness after removal is normal! Sometimes redness can last a few days.
3. After removing your bandage, cleanse your new tattoo with gentle unscented soap / antibacterial soap and and warm water to remove excess plasma and ink. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
4. Apply thin layer of gentle unscented moisturizer (Lubriderm, Cetaphil, etc) to your tattoo 2x per day.
After about a week, your tattoo will begin to flake or even peel. This is normal and all part of the healing process. Hand poke tattoos don’t really scab since there is very little trauma being done to the skin :-)
If you notice signs of infection (pus, redness, and swelling) or increased bleeding at the site of the tattoo, contact your doctor immediately.
--- Some more aftercare tips & info ---
- You will probably experience some itchiness as your tattoo heals. Again, this is normal. But please... DO NOT PICK at excess ink if there is fall out and DO NOT ITCH your tattoo while it is healing!
- Showers are fine, but refrain from baths or other forms of soaking. NO pools, jacuzzis, or ocean bathing for two - four weeks after your tattoo.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or consuming blood thinners (advil, etc) for twenty-four hours following the tattoo.
- Handpoked tattoo typically heal within 2 weeks but may take up to 4. During this time the tattoo will settle and the ink will spread into the skin. Please remember my tattoos are done by hand and that your tattoo may differ once fully healed – everyone’s skin is different and results vary from person to person.
- Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight so it can stay bright and fresh for many years. Until it is healed, keep your new tattoo out of direct sun to the best of your ability! Once healed, remember to apply a sun block with a rating of "40" or stronger B-)
Enjoy your new tattoo <3!
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****** If you experience ink fall out or want a touch up, please email me with photos of your tattoo at least 2-4 weeks after the tattoo was completed and we will set up an appointment for free! wilsonistheworst@gmail.com *******