Tattoo Aftercare

The first few days and weeks are very important for your new tattoos healing process. Make sure you care for it properly and follow these steps. Below are aftercare instructions and the do’s and do not’s recommended.

1. Leave the adhesive barrier on for 72 hours. The bandage is there to keep airborne bacteria and any other contaminants in the environment from invading your wound.
2. Make sure your hands have been washed thoroughly before you remove the adhesive barrier and before any other time you touch, wash, or moisturize the area.
3. Remove the adhesive barrier in the shower. Once removed lightly wash the tattooed area with unscented soap and water. Do not scrub the tattoo with a brush or towel (this should not be done until the tattoo has healed).
4. Dry the tattooed area by gently patting the area with a clean, sterile towel.
5. Let the tattoo dry completely (approximately 10 minutes)
6. Lightly moisturize with unscented lotion such as fragrance-free Aveeno
7. Do not need re-bandage, it is important that the tattoo breathes.
8. Wash and moisturize with unscented soap and lotion 2-3 times a day for about 2 weeks. Do not let the tattoo dry out but also make sure not to over moisturize.

After a few days you may notice some peeling and possibly minor scabbing. It is at this point in the healing process that your tattoo will begin to itch. RESIST THE URGE TO SATISFY YOUR DESIRE TO SCRATCH, RUB, OR PICK at the tattoo. Remember -- the first few days and weeks are the most important for your new tattoo. If you notice any excessive swelling/ redness/ signs of infection seek medical attention.

DO NOT:

1. Go swimming, soak in a hot tub or bath
2. Use hydrogen peroxide, Polysporin or rubbing alcohol on your tattoo
3. Itch, pick, or scratch the tattoo
4. Participate in excessive activities that will make you sweat or will result in heavy rubbing of the tattooed area.

DO:

1. Stay out of the sun until your tattoo has healed completely.
2. Apply sun block to tattoo after it has healed whenever it is exposed to the sun to protect it from the damage of UV rays.

You are entitled to a free touch up, if needed, within a year of getting the tattoo (except if the tattoo is on your hands or feet). If you think you are in need of a touch up please send me a healed photo 2-3 months after our appointment so I can see how the tattoo settled and how long of an appointment I will need to book you in for. You do not need to wait for my books to open to book a touch up, just email dayshatattoos@gmail.com and include photo.