@jennaboyter
Tattoo Aftercare
You got your tattoo - now what?!
First off, the aftercare procedure tattoo depends on what type of bandage was used to wrap your fresh tattoo. Did the artist use saran wrap to wrap your tattoo, or did they apply a derm shield clear adhesive bandage. Follow the instructions below according to which bandage you were given.
Artist used saran wrap to wrap tattoo:
After a few hours, you can remove the covering.
First wash your hands with water and soap (see soap recommendation below). Then gently wash the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap. Pat your skin dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a small amount of fragrance-free moisturizer to the tattoo (see recommendation below).
You can keep the covering off at this point to let your skin breathe. Repeat washing and moisturizing 3x a day for the first week and then as needed after that.
Artist used derm shield bandage:
The derm shield bandage can stay on for 3-5 days. If you start getting any kind of rash from the bandage, then remove it. These bandages can be slightly uncomfortable to remove, I recommend doing it in the shower. It also helps to remove it like a command strip, by working up the edge of the bandage and pulling the bandage away from itself rather than towards itself. After you remove the bandage, wash your hands with water and soap (see soap recommendation below). Then gently wash the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap. Pat your skin dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a small amount of fragrance-free moisturizer to the tattoo (see recommendation below). Repeat washing and moisturizing 3x a day for the first week and then as needed after that.
aftercare products
Soap Recommendations
Moisturizer Recommendations
Moisturizer Recommendations
I recommend Dial antibacterial hand soap. Pump soap, not a bar soap. If you can't find this soap, it's ok, just something antibacterial and fragrant free.
Moisturizer Recommendations
Moisturizer Recommendations
Moisturizer Recommendations
Aquaphor is good for your fresh tattoo, you want to just use a small amount and really rub it in. If you don't like the aquaphor, you can also use a light non scented lotion like lubriderm.