Tattoo Aftercare
Here are some key steps to safely and effectively treat your new tattoo as it heals
Your new tattoo will consist of an area of tiny skin breaks, caused by the tattooing needles, so it is important to follow the information provided after getting your new piece of art.
After approximately two weeks, any scabbing should have gone and been replaced with new, intact skin. The area should be completely healed in a further 10-14 days.
Going Home
The day of your tattoo, it should be kept covered afterwards for at least an hour. The dressing is only intended to get you home without the treated area catching on clothing. Avoid unnecessary touching, scratching or picking the new tattoo site to reduce the risk of introducing infection.
Always wash and dry your hands before and after handling a new tattoo. Wash the tattoo site with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do not rub the tattoo or the skin will become irritated. If possible, shower rather than bathe whilst the tattoo is healing so that unnecessary water exposure is prevented.
Do not leave your bandage on for too long, avoid swimming pools and hot pools, avoid allowing your pet near your tattoo, avoid shaving the area, avoid direct sunlight & try and wear loose cotton clothing to avoid irritation.
Healing Process
Do not use skin products on the treated area that have not been recommended or are not intended for open wound healing. Apply a thin layer of balm, Hustle Butter will be provided to you at the studio, and is highly recommended. This can be applied 2-3 times a day after you have cleaned the area for 4-5 days. You may also apply antiseptic as an alternative, such as Bepanthen which can be purchased from your local pharmacy or supermarket. Avoid petroleum based creams as they can affect the healing of the tattoo. You should not share skin products with others.
Second Skin
In some cases, a film called Second Skin or Saniderm onto your tattoo once complete. This is a medical grade form of tattoo aftercare. This helps to eliminate early tattoo damage, reduce peeling and scabbing while providing a waterproof barrier against irritants.
Leave your second skin on for the recommended 5-7 days.
Do not get the second skin wet within the first 1-2 hours of application, this will avoid water getting in before it has adhered to the tattoo and cause early removal. If removed early, please follow normal aftercare instructions for open wounds healing of your tattoo.
**Ink 'smudge' underneath the second skin is normal, and is nothing to worry about. If you are concerned, please do not hesitate to contact us.**