After the tattoo session, we will discuss the best method for healing your tattoo.
There are two options for healing a tattoo:
Tattoos can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to heal.
STANDARD METHOD:
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Wear the plastic wrap bandage for up to 2 hours after leaving your appointment
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Wash your hands and carefully remove the tattoo wrap
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Wash your tattoo thoroughly with unscented, unmedicated soap
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Pat your tattoo dry with a clean, lint free towel
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Apply a thin layer of ointment over the tattoo. Never apply ointment in thick layers--it should not look shiny
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Repeat this process for the next 5 days, 3 times a day (morning, afternoon, and evening)
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Refer to final 3-4 weeks of healing below for next steps
SECOND SKIN METHOD:
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Wear the ViewGuard bandage for 3-5 days
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It is normal for liquid to collect under the ViewGuard bandage
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Wash your hands before removing the ViewGuard bandage
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After 3-5 days, remove the ViewGuard bandage. I recommend removing the bandage while in the shower
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Gently clean the residue from the surface of the tattoo with unscented, unmedicated soap
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Refer to the final 3-4 weeks of healing below for the next steps
FINAL 3-4 WEEKS OF HEALING:
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Use an unscented, unmedicated lotion to keep the tattoo hydrated
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Continue to wash the tattoo 1-2 times a day using unscented, unmedicated soap
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It is normal for the tattoo to shed, flake, itch, and/or scab
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Avoid touching the tattoo during the healing process. Picking, peeling, or aggravating the tattoo can damage the image and/or cause permanent scarring
WHILE HEALING YOUR TATTOO:
IMPORTANT!
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DO NOT SUBMERGE IN WATER FOR 4 WEEKS! No swimming, no bathing! Showers are fine. You can shower after the session
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AVOID PET HAIR, DANDER, AND NAILS! Remove any pet hair, dander, and other debris from the tattoo as soon as possible
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NO SCENTS! AVOID SCENTED SOAPS, PERFUMES, AND LOTIONS UNTIL THE TATTOO IS COMPLETELY HEALED! Scented products can cause irritation/infections that can damage the image and/or cause permanent scarring
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Avoid direct sunlight until the tattoo is completely healed. Once the tattoo is completely healed, use SPF 30 to protect it from the sun and to preserve the brightness of the tattoo
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Avoid wristwatches, jewelry, and tight clothing until the tattoo is completely healed
HEALING PRODUCT EXAMPLES:
UNSCENTED SOAPS: Dr. Bronner's (light blue label - please dilute), Dial Gold
UNSCENTED LOTIONS: Aveeno, Lubriderm
OINTMENTS: Aquaphor, Mujo, Hustle Butter
PLEASE REACH OUT!
AFTERCARE QUESTIONS?
If you have concerns regarding aftercare of the healing process, please contact me. I am here to help and ensure the healing process is as easy and as comfortable as possible.