Aftercare
For best results, please follow these aftercare instructions carefully. You have been tattooed in an hygienic, world class studio...now it is up to you to take care of your new art for a lifetime.
For standard tattoo aftercare:
Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo to protect it from bacteria and friction. Please remove this covering from your tattoo when you get home, or after approximately 2 hours.
For aftercare bandage (eg. Second Skin):
Your tattoo artist will apply the Second Skin bandage immediately after completing your tattoo. This is designed to protect your tattoo from bacteria and friction, while allowing it to breathe.
Leave the Second Skin bandage on for the time directed by your tattoo artist - different tattoo designs/styles/placements may have different recommended times.
It’s normal to see some fluid buildup under the bandage while it's in place. This is a mix of plasma, ink, and a small amount of blood.
After the recommended amount of time, gently remove the bandage in a warm shower. Peel up an edge or corner of the bandage and slowly pull it back across the skin, not straight up.
Then for ALL tattoos:
After removing the covering, wash your tattoo gently with mild soap and clean water then pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel (do not rub). Next apply a very thin layer of aftercare cream - you do not need to wrap up your tattoo again.
For the next 5 - 7 days, gently wash your tattoo morning & night before applying a very thin layer of aftercare cream, as above. Also apply aftercare cream a few times during the day if your tattoo looks or feels dry, to a maximum of 3 applications per day. The aim is to keep your tattoo just moisturised - too much aftercare cream will make your tattoo soggy, too little cream will make your tattoo dry and cracked.
On the first night of having your new tattoo, it may seep a little liquid, ink and/or blood - don’t panic, this is normal! Just wash it gently in the morning as per above instructions
After a few days, your tattoo will become itchy and flaky, this is also normal - please DO NOT scratch it or pick at any scabs that may form as this can cause scarring.
For 1-2 weeks after getting tattooed, please also:
Keep your tattoo out of direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Do not soak your tattoo in water: choose showers instead of baths and take quick swims only.
Keep your tattoo clean and free of dirt, fake tan, sunscreen, sand, and other foreign matter.
Do not wear tight or restrictive clothing, or jewellery, over your fresh tattoo.
Travelling soon?
If you'll be taking a flight, your tattoo may swell up on the plane - don't panic, this is normal and should settle down after you land.
If travelling to remote or less developed areas, please don’t forget to pack bottled water, mild soap and your aftercare cream.