Aftercare
Every Artist has their own method of aftercare. The most important part of the aftercare is being consistent and completing all the steps. Here is a guide to the after that has worked the best for myself and my clients
Step 1 - Cleanse
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Keep bandage applied for around 3-5 hours
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Remove the bandage with washed hands to cleanse the tattoo and surrounding area
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Wash the area with unscented soap, warm water and your hands only.
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Rinse, then pat dry with a clean paper tower, or air dry.
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For the first two days, if the area is sticky to touch after drying, repeat the washing steps up to three times in one wash session.
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Repeat all cleansing steps two times a day for the first two weeks
Moisturize
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Wait two days before applying any moisturizer
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Wash hands thoroughly, then apply a small amount of unscented moisturizer, rub gently on tattooed area
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Lotion should not be visible on the surface of your skin when finished applying
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repeat the cleansing process outlined above then moisturize two times a day for two weeks
Always use unscented moisturizers - Aveeno, Aquaphor, Lubriderm work well
What to Avoid
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Avoid direct sun exposure within the first month of the healing process - sunscreen may be applied after 3 weeks of healing
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Do not soak your tattoo in water, and it is best to avoiding water pressure on the tattoo (showering is ok)
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Do not pick or peel tattoo as it will scab, this may damage the skin and the tattoo
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Avoid dusty/dirty environments. If needed wear long sleeved loose fitted clothing, and wash regularly
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Avoid direct contact with pets, this includes pet kisses and hair
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Try to sleep with freshly washed sheets
What to Expect
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During the healing process, the top layer of your skin may flake like a sunburn or form a scab. This is good, normal, and may continue for two weeks to a month
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Itchiness is normal while healing. DO NOT ITCH
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After 2 weeks, your tattoo should show signs of healing, this is when you can ease off the cleanse and moisturize stages
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Your tattoo may take up to one full month to settle, depending on the size