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Wade's aftercare

What you'll need

  • Aquaphor or organic virgin coconut oil

  • Mild liquid unscented soap (Dial, Dr. Bronners)

  • White unscented lotion

 

1. Leave the bandage on for at least two hours (overnight if it's an evening tattoo). Do not remove the bandage within those two hours unless you want to welcome infection into your new tattoo.

2. Only touch tattoo with freshly clean hands, or you will infect your tattoo. Remove the bandage and wash tattoo with mild unscented liquid dish soap and warm water. Gently pat dry with paper towel or let air dry.

3. Apply a small amount of Aquaphor or coconut oil (I suggest coconut oil). Rub it in briefly and then pat off any excess. Just enough to have the skin be soft, but not shiny. Repeat this step 2-3 times a day for the first 2-3 days

4. After 2-3 days the tattoo will start to itch. Once it begins to itch, switch to a unscented white lotion. A dry flakey layer of skin may form on the tattoo, let it peel off naturally. If there is color in the flakes, have no fear because it is totally natural. DO NOT scratch or pick at the tattoo. Apply lotion when tattoo feels dry, itchy, or tight for the next two weeks. 

5. Avoid direct sunlight until tattoo is completely healed because it may damage and fade tattoo. Do not use sunscreen, instead cover tattoo with clothing. After tattoo is healed, it is still suseptible to fading due to intense sunlight, the American Association of Dermatology recommends a broad spectrum waterproof sunblock with SPF of at least 30 applied every two hours.

6. No hot tubs, saunas, pools, or lakes until tattoo is completely healed. Regular showers are good, but do not soak tattoo for long periods of time. The water may affect scabs which will negatively effect the tattoo.

7. Follow all the directions or healing time may be extended or cause infection. To reduce risk of infection wear loose clothing, change sheets regularly (especially if you have pets), only touch tattoo with clean hands, and do not let other people touch your tattoo. Some warmth, redness, and irritation is normal. If you suspect infection be sure to consult a health professional at the first sign. 

8. Please call with any questions.  I have over 18 years of experience with tattooing and tattoo healing, I will be able to answer your questions. I have seen almost everything and am a licensed professional, I would love to answer any questions you may have about your healing tattoo. 

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