AFTERCARE
Aftercare advice can vary depending on an artist’s application, approach, and style. Unless your artist tells you otherwise, the information below is how we recommend looking after your new tattoo so it stays looking sharp for years to come.
If you’ve got any concerns while your tattoo is healing, our artist’s here to help. Don't hesitate to message your artist directly, or email us.
Remove wrap after 1-2 hours, and wash gently with soap and water using clean hands. I recommend using liquid soap and warm water.
Pat dry with a clean towel.
Gently wash your tattoo morning and night. Ensure this is done with clean hands and always use a clean towel to pat dry.
Apply a thin layer of aftercare cream 2 times daily. DO NOT apply a thick layer of cream. Please wait 14 days or until the tattoo is fully healed before applying any other creams, oils or sprays to the tattooed area. The creams * we recommend are:
Bepanthen Antiseptic
Dr Pickles Tattoo Balm
Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm
* Products are available at the studio for purchase.
DO NOT swim or soak the tattoo. You can shower with your new tattoo, allow the water to lightly run over the surface of the skin without submerging. Avoid baths, swimming in the oceans, pools or rivers until the tattoo is fully healed (min. 3-4 weeks). Soaking your tattoo will result in colour loss and increases the risk of infection.
Avoid the gym, heavy exercise or sport for at least 3 days after the tattoo is complete. Excessive sweating and moist environments can encourage bacteria growth and increase risk of infection.
We recommend wearing loose clothing during the healing process, and to ensure any clothes, sheets or fabrics that come into contact with your tattoo are freshly cleaned and hygienic.
Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while healing. No tanning or sun-beds during the healing process (min. 3-4 weeks) and we highly recommend the use of SPF 50+ sunscreen on your tattoos after the wound is completely healed. Sun exposure over time can impact the quality, colour and cause damage to the original design and surrounding skin.
Be mindful of leaning against unclean surfaces (dependant on tattoo placement).
DO NOT pick, itch or scratch. Healing tattoos can form scabs and flaking/dry skin. Leave your tattoo alone to heal. After the initial flake falls off, you may experience a secondary flake known as 'milky skin' that lasts approximately a week. Keep applying aftercare cream and avoid sunlight until completely gone.
If your artist has advised you to use second skin, follow below.
INITIAL APPLICATION & WEAR:
Keep the initial Second Skin bandage on for the recommended time by your artist (between 3-5 days).
You can shower with your Second Skin bandage, but avoid prolonged submersion in water. No baths or swimming.
Watch for excessive fluid buildup (ink, blood & plasma) under the bandage. If it starts to peel off or leaks, it's time to remove it and clean the tattoo. It is best to be completely sealed, or not at all.
REMOVAL:
Remove under running lukewarm water.
Begin to peel from an edge of the bandage, gently and slowly pulling down inline with your tattoo allowing the water to loosen the adhesive.
Once completely removed, gently wash the area with a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.
Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing or friction.
If the bandage comes off prior to the recommended time frame, please refer back to the general aftercare advice listed above.