Tattoo Care Sheet
Covering the tattoo
Once the tattoo is completed it will be covered with a sticky transparent film which needs to be removed after 2-3 days or a plastic wrap that needs to be removed right away after arriving home.
If the sticky film starts to unstick from the corners, it needs to be removed right away. Otherwise dirt and bacteria can get to the tattoo which might lead to an infection. The film needs to be removed slowly to prevent injuring the tattoo and skin. If it is too uncomfortable to remove, try removing it in the shower.
You may take showers with the sticky film on, but no baths.
If the sticky film starts to unstick from the corners, it needs to be removed right away. Otherwise dirt and bacteria can get to the tattoo which might lead to an infection. The film needs to be removed slowly to prevent injuring the tattoo and skin. If it is too uncomfortable to remove, try removing it in the shower.
You may take showers with the sticky film on, but no baths.
After removing the film
Once the sticky film is removed, the care process begins. Wash the tattoo with an unfragranced soap, pat it dry with household tissues and moisturize it with a thin layer of pure shea butter, Helosan (blue tube) or virgin coconut oil. This needs to be done 2-4 times a day depending on how dry your tattoo is. Whenever the tattoo is feeling dry or itchy, repeat the care process. Continue doing this for 1-2 weeks until your tattoo is no longer scabbed and flaky.
Important info about the healing process
Your tattoo might start to scab and itch during the healing process. It is very important not to pick on the scabs nor scratch the tattoo as it can damage the tattoo. If your tattoo is very itchy you can pat it with washed hands.
It is also important to keep your pets away from your fresh tattoo. It is a wound and it can easily get infected if dirt gets into it.
It is also important to keep your pets away from your fresh tattoo. It is a wound and it can easily get infected if dirt gets into it.
What not to do with your fresh tattoo
Direct sunlight has to be avoided until the tattoo is completely healed. You must not put sunscreen on it before it is healed, so the tattoo needs to be covered by loose clothing when being in the sun. You should avoid going to the beach until the tattoo is healed, as sand can get into it and cause an infection.
For the first two weeks you must avoid taking baths, swimming and the sauna. You should also avoid shaving the area. Doing these can damage the tattoo while it still has scabs on it.
You should also avoid drinking fermented alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cider) for the first 1-2 weeks. These drinks can slow the healing process and cause swelling.
With a fresh tattoo you should avoid excessive sweating and any friction to the tattooed area. So taking a break from working out is necessary.
If you have any complications with your tattoo during the healing process, make sure to contact your tattoo artist right away.
For the first two weeks you must avoid taking baths, swimming and the sauna. You should also avoid shaving the area. Doing these can damage the tattoo while it still has scabs on it.
You should also avoid drinking fermented alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cider) for the first 1-2 weeks. These drinks can slow the healing process and cause swelling.
With a fresh tattoo you should avoid excessive sweating and any friction to the tattooed area. So taking a break from working out is necessary.
If you have any complications with your tattoo during the healing process, make sure to contact your tattoo artist right away.