Aftercare

There are two different methods of aftercare that I recommend, traditional or use of a product called Saniderm. Saniderm is a clear adhesive bandage that will cover your tattoo for several days. Unfortunately it is not practical for larger tattoos.

Traditional method

  • Leave covering on tattoo for one hour after leaving the shop.
  • Remove covering, wash with antibacterial soap and warm water using only your hands. No washcloth, loofa, atc.
  • Rinse and pat dry with paper towel.
  • Wash 2x per day for two weeks
  • When your tattoo starts to feel dry and/or starts flaking apply unscented hand lotion 2-3x per day for two weeks. I recommend Aveeno, Cetaphil, or Vaseline Intensive Care lotion.
  • No sun, swimming, or submerging in water for 2 weeks. Showers are fine. Itching and peeling are a normal part of the healing process. Do not scratch your tattoo.

Saniderm

  • Saniderm is a medical-grade, breathable, waterproof tattoo bandage.
  • Primarily, Saniderm reduces the risk of contaminants entering the wound site of a fresh tattoo. Wearing Saniderm protects the area from unwanted shear/friction and allows the body to keep itself moisturized. Plus, it conveniently eliminates sessions of washing and applying aftercare to a new tattoo.
  • Keep the first applied bandage on for anywhere from 3 to 24 hours, depending on how much the wound is weeping. Replace within 24 hours. It’s fine if there is some plasma/blood/lymph fluid buildup under the bandage during this period, but don’t leave it longer than 24 hours. I will give you extra to reapply after removing the first bandage.
  • To remove Saniderm, find an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of your natural hair growth. The shower is the ideal place to remove Saniderm. Running water will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable. Dry removal of Saniderm may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin.
  • Discard the used bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild fragrance-free soap.
  • Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
  • Apply a second bandage. Keep this second bandage on for 3 to 5 days. If the skin appears irritated, there is fluid buildup, or the bandage is coming off, it’s okay to remove the bandage sooner rather than later.
  • Apply lotion as needed after removal until tattoo is no longer dry or flaking.
  • I do not recommend swimming or submerging your tattoo in water under any circumstances for a full 2 weeks.