WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE EXPECTING HEALING!
Begin by washing your hands thoroughly!
If you leave the studio with Saran Wrap, please remove this covering within 2 hours of leaving your appointment.
Gently wash the tattoo using circular motions, an unscented or mild soap, and warm water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply a thin layer of the salve of your choice. I recommend Dr. Bronner’s Magic Balm.
If the salve is goopy or sliding around, use less product.
Repeat these steps two to three times a day for 3-6 days, beginning the day of your tattoo. Wash more frequently if you are sweating, in contact with animals, or otherwise in need of a wash.
After 6 days, continue applying a salve or switch to an unscented lotion for additional moisture.
Do not submerge the tattoo in water for 2 weeks. Showers are fine but no tubs, no swimming, no hot tubs, nor ocean/river dips until 2 weeks after our appointment.
While healing, keeping your tattoo out of direct sunlight is important for preventing sunburn on vulnerable skin.
After a week, begin to apply sunscreen. Regularly practicing UV-protective skincare will prolong the life of your piece.
Refrain from touching the tattoo to help prevent infection. High risk infection environments include gyms, campsites, beaches, construction sites, bathrooms, and crowded environments (think festivals, concerts, and clubs). Limit damp clothing over your fresh tattoo, shared towels, and contact with pets as these activities increase your risk of infection.
If you engage in any of these activities, please clean your tattoo more frequently.
What to expect over the course of the healing process:
Days 1-3:
The tattoo may have some redness, warmth, & a little soreness. Clear fluid (plasma) and ink leaking is normal.
Days 3-5:
Expect swelling to go down, but the skin may feel tight and dry.
Days 5-10:
The skin may wrinkle and begin to flake. The tattoo will most likely itch— please don’t scratch or pick! Ink in the flakes is also normal.
Days 10-18:
A milky, shiny layer may appear as the tissue heals itself.
Days 25-35:
Your skin will repair itself, and color will reappear as the milky layer disappears.
If you’ve followed the aftercare instructions, and find you need a touch up after healing is complete, please reach out to me via email.
If you experience red streaking away from the tattoo, leaking pus, or other signs of infection please contact me and seek medical intervention immediately.