Tattoo After-Care Instructions
Day 1
You should have a protective covering on after your tattoo. Ensure you have clean hands when handling your dressings. If you have glad wrap or a similar dressing on, you can remove this after 2-4 hours. Gently wash the tattoo with anti-bacterial soap and water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do not apply any creams/ointments. At night, you may re-wrap it in cling film to prevent staining to bedsheets. Ensure your bedsheets and blankets are clean. Blood, plasma or ink may ooze and this is normal. It may be warm to touch and slightly swollen.
If you have second skin or a similar dressing on, this is to remain for 3-5 days. If it comes off accidentally, remove the entire dressing and follow the steps above.
Day 2
Repeat the rinses up to twice daily.
Day 3-14
Once the second skin is removed, you can start to apply a moisturiser (fragrance free). Continue to apply a thin layer of cream 1-2 times a day until the tattoo is healed (roughly 2 weeks). Do not let the tattoo become dry. For best results, you can purchase tattoo healing creams from us in store. Do not apply petroleum jelly, bepanthen, alcohol or other creams with asking us or your artist.
Tips
Keep tattoos elevated when possible to reduce swelling
Use antihistamines and simple analgesia as directed
Avoid long hot showers/baths for the first two weeks
You are able to shower as normal
Keep your tattoo clean, out of the pool/ocean for 1 week minimum, out of the sun for 3 weeks minimum
Continue to use sunscreen long term
Don’t wear tight clothing over your tattoo that can cause friction
Avoid rigorous exercise involving the tattooed area
Don’t pick at your tattoo while it’s healing, this can cause scarring
Avoid exfoliating during the first two weeks
Avoid contact with animal or dirty environments the first two weeks