Keep the bandage or Saniderm bandage on when you leave the tattoo shop. Depending on what type of bandage we put on will determine how long you need to wear it.

For the Saniderm/Second Skin/Recovery Bandage which is defined as the clear self sticking bandage we recommend leaving it on for a maximum of three days. It is normal to see some fluid build up beneath the bandage but if fluid starts leaking out of the bandage please contact us for further instruction. If you experience any discomfort while wearing the bandage like itchiness or redness you might be allergic to the adhesive and we recommend removing the bandage and washing the area immediately.

*How to remove the Saniderm- Saturate the bandage under warm running water. Slowly pull up one of the edges of the bandage and gently pull the bandage from the tattoo. Go Slow while keeping the area under the running water.

*Discard the bandage and immediately wash your tattoo with a fragrance free soap. Brands that we like are Dial Anti-Bacterial Gold Bar Soap, Dove White Bar Soap, Ivory White Bar Soap, Softsoap Clear and Cetaphil Liquid Soap.

*Apply soap to your fingertips and firmly rotate your fingertips over the tattoo under warm running water. The area will feel slimy and tender - take your time washing the area so that you properly remove any excess body fluid and ink that has naturally seeped out. Never use wash rags, sponges or any sort of body scrubber on your tattoo.

*Rinse your tattoo throughly so that it feels “squeaky clean” and not slimy.

*Dry the tattoo by gently patting it with a paper towel or use a CLEAN bathroom towel. Allow the tattoo to air dry for the next 12-24 hours. It’s okay if clothing covers the area.

*After 24 hours you can apply a little bit of lotion to the tattoo. Please make sure your hands are always clean before you apply lotion. We like to use unscented brands like, Aveeno, Eucerin, Keri, Curel, and Lubriderm. Apply a thin layer of lotion twice a day- morning and evening.

*We want you to keep the area clean but please refrain from excessive scrubbing over your tattoo. It’ okay to gently run soap and water over the area during your normal showering routine but if you touch the tattoo too much you risk prematurely removing ink which could cause scabs to form.

*After 5 to 7 days your tattoo will begin the shed the top layer of skin which is a natural part of the healing process. This is similar to how skin heals after a sunburn. The dead skin sheds away revealing new skin underneath. The shedding should be left alone! Do not pick at your tattoo or you could cause scabs to form!! Lotion helps alleviate any intense itching that you might feel at this time.

*When the flakes are completely gone your tattoo will have a shiny wax-like appearance. This is your new skin settling in and usually lasts about a week. Your tattoo can still feel itchy at this point but avoid scratching over it. A light application of lotion is your best line of defense to ease the itchy feel.

*If instructions are followed correctly your tattoo should be fully healed in 4 weeks. Sometimes location of the tattoo, exposure and health of the individual can make healing take longer. If you have any concerns about the way your tattoo is healing call us and let us know what’s going on. If you feel your tattoo is showing signs of infection please contact your doctor.

WHAT TO DO AND NOT DO WHILE YOUR TATTOO IS HEALING

-It is normal for a tattoo to hurt, feel sore and swollen the first several hours after getting it done. This pain should settle after 48 hours. If you are concerned about the pain do not hesitate to contact us.

-No swimming or letting your healing tattoo soak underwater for the first two weeks after getting tattooed!! This means avoid bathtubs, hot tubs, swimming pools, or taking a dip in any oceans, lakes, rivers and streams. Showering is okay.

-If you workout at the gym make sure you clean and wipe down the exercise equipment. Do not let your healing tattoo touch shared equipment. Avoid using the sauna the first two weeks.

-No tanning for 4 weeks!! In general tanning or any sort of prolonged sun exposure is bad for tattoos. UV rays will break down your tattoo faster making it look faded as you age. Sunblock over your tattoo will prolong its brightness for years to come. Do not use sunscreen lotions until after your tattoo is healed for two weeks. If you are going to be in the sun while your tattoo is healing cover it with linen or cotton clothing or a cloth bandage like an ace wrap.

-Consult a physician if you feel like your tattoo is showing signs of infection.