TATTOO AFTERCARE

Every artist has their own way of doing things when it comes to aftercare, and it is always best to follow their advice to keep your tattoo looking its best and healing smoothly. Here is how I recommend taking care of your new tattoo:

Recovery Derm Shield Instructions

If you got tattooed by me, you probably went home with Recovery Derm Shield on your new tattoo, plus an extra sheet. This clear, breathable, waterproof film protects your tattoo from anything that could interfere with healing. (You have probably heard of Tegaderm or Second Skin; this is the same kind of product, just a different brand.)

If my verbal instructions didn’t stick because you were riding that adrenaline high, no worries, here is the recap:

  • Leave the Derm Shield on for 2–3 days. If you see some liquid building up under there, do not freak out. It is totally normal. That is just your body doing its thing, pushing out a mix of blood, plasma, and ink to help the healing process.

  • After the first couple of days, it should look somewhat dry under your bandage. I use this as an indication that the Derm Shield is ready to be removed. If it does not look dry, that is okay too, it just should not still be actively producing fluid at this point.

  • Gently peel the film off by pulling it away from itself, like how you would remove a Command strip. (Do not panic if it looks like your tattoo is on the film, that is just dead skin cells.) Doing this in the shower can help since the steam loosens the adhesive and keeps any liquid mess from getting everywhere if some is still present.

  • Wash your tattoo with warm water and a gentle, unscented soap (no bar soap, it is a bacteria trap). I recommend Dial Antibacterial Gold (pump) or Dr. Bronner’s Unscented/Baby Soap (dilute it, it is strong stuff).

  • Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. No bath towels, they can harbor bacteria. Get the area as dry as possible.

  • After that, you can begin moisturizing with a white, unscented lotion like Lubriderm, Aveeno, Curel, Eucerin, or Cetaphil. If you wish to use an ointment for a couple of days before switching to lotion, I recommend Redemption Aftercare Ointment. Most tattoos heal in about three weeks, but some spots might take a little longer. Only apply moisturizer when your skin is feeling tight, dry, or itchy.

Ointment Heal (if Derm Shield isn’t your vibe):

  • For those who cannot use adhesives or just have outlines:
    Take off the wrap I applied after our session and gently wash the tattoo with warm water and unscented soap (Dial Antibacterial Gold (pump) or Dr. Bronner’s Natural Soap). No bar soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

  • Apply a small amount of ointment 1–3 times a day for the first 2 days. I recommend Redemption Aftercare Ointment (organic, smells great, buttery texture).

  • After 4 days, switch to lotion and keep your tattoo moisturized with a white, unscented lotion like Lubriderm, Aveeno, Curel, Eucerin, or Cetaphil until it is fully healed. Only apply moisturizer when your skin is feeling tight, dry, or itchy.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

  • No swimming, hot tubs, baths, sun exposure, gym equipment, or shaving for at least two weeks.

  • Keep pets off your fresh tattoo (I know that is hard, but fur and claws are not your friends right now). If your pet does make contact, wash your tattoo at once.
    Do not pick or peel flaking skin. Let it come off naturally to avoid pulling out ink.

    If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I am here to help make sure your tattoo heals beautifully and stays looking amazing.