Ink Care

Here is what to expect for your new ink! Your tattoo will take anywhere from 7-14 days to heal. It will be tender to the touch for the first few days, then it will begin to peel almost like a healing sunburn. This is normal. The tattoo may appear pale or even odd with the color; this is also completely normal. The last stage of healing may include tight shiny skin. That will go away, and your skin will return to normal.

• Possible reactions: Immediately after your tattoo procedure, you may experience some blood and/or plasma seeping from the site. Some people also experience minor swelling and even bruising depending on where they were tattooed. This is all completely normal. Itchiness may occur as the tattoo heals, but please do not pick or scratch at it. During the tattoo procedure, you may begin to feel light headed, dizzy, faint, and possibly even nauseous. This is totally normal, and please let your artist know if you are feeling that way. We want you to feel your absolute best while getting inked.

• Potential complications: There is always a risk of infection during the healing of your tattoo. That is why good hygiene is key when taking care of your new ink. We will provide aftercare instructions both verbally and in writing once the tattoo is complete. In some cases, people will develop a rash as a result of the ointments or lotions being applied during the healing process. If a rash does appear, stop the use of the item your were using immediately and refer to your aftercare instruction sheet. An allergic reaction is another possible complication due to a particular ink or pigment. It can be caused when the ink is exposed to heat or sun while healing.

• It’s recommended to keep your Saniderm/second skin on for a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of 3 days. Once taken off, do not apply more! Blood or clear fluid may appear from under the bandage, but that is completely normal. Don’t be alarmed!

• Take the bandage off slowly under warm running water. Wash your new, awesome tattoo with unscented, antibacterial liquid soap and water! Rinse off the area and pat with a clean towel. After air drying for about 5 minutes, apply a thin layer of an unscented body moisturizer, such as Aquaphor or Cetaphil.

• Use ointment about 3 times a day for one week. Apply in thin layers and with clean hands. After a week, bump it down to twice a day, and after that week, continue to moisturize daily.

• Always wear/use clean clothing, towels, and any other materials through the healing process.

• Do not soak or scrub your new tattoo! Showers are perfectly fine, but it’s best to always avoid submerging your tattoo for the first couple of weeks. Baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, fresh and/or salt water are all danger zones for you and your tattoo for the first 2-3 weeks. The same caution is also applied to tanning.

• Avoid any activities that may cause excessive sweating in the tattooed area for the first couple of weeks, including going to the gym, going on a hike, and so on. Make sure to keep that tattoo moisturized and breathable!

• Make sure the area you will have a tattoo on remains breathable during the healing process. Steer clear of tight clothing or accessories that may get in the way of your ink.

• Itchiness is completely normal. Avoid scratching or picking at your tattoo. It will peel and flake at its own pace. Do not attempt to speed up the healing process.

• Wear sunscreen! Not only will it protect your skin, but it will help your piece maintain its color and readability.

• If you have any questions or problems regarding the tattoo or aftercare process, do not hesitate to contact me or the studio. If you experience any abnormal symptoms such as an infection, yellow or green discharge, extreme pain or swelling, please contact a physician as soon as possible.