If using Derm Shield
Derm Shield is a waterproof breathable bandage. If I’ve applied it follow these
instructions:
- After 3-5 days, peel Derm Shield off slowly, preferably under running water, avoid pulling upwards. Do not keep wrap on longer than 5 days.
- After removing Derm Shield, gently wash tattoo with anti-bacterial soap, preferably orange Dial liquid or bar soap.
- Let tattoo air dry.
- Once dry, apply a thin coat of unscented lightweight white lotion OR Hustle Butter tattoo care.
- Wash tattoo gently with antibacterial soap three times per day for the duration of the heal time, followed by a chapstick thin layer of lotion or tattoo care.
- If you are a more dry skinned person feel free to apply lotion more times per day, rather than applying a lot at once. Less is more.
- IF ANYTHING LEAKS OUT OF WRAP REMOVE IMMEDIATELY
- IF WRAP PEELS UP AND TATTOO BECOMES EXPOSED REMOVE IMMEDIATELY
If no Derm Shield was applied
- Remove wrap or bandage after 1-2 hours; do not keep tattoo bandage on over night.
- Wash hands before washing tattoo. Gently wash tattoo with antibacterial soap.
- Apply a thin coat of Hustle Butter or tattoo care; not regular lotion in 1st week.
- Continue to wash three times per day followed by a thin coat of Hustle Butter or tattoo care for two weeks. Avoid petroleum products .
What to expect
- Your tattoo may be dry and itchy. Let skin flake off naturally rather than peeling it off.
- Your tattoo may stick to clothing or sheets if Derm Shield is not used. Try to wear loose clothing and don’t be alarmed if ink leaks onto your sheets.
- Your tattoo may look smeary or like it’s falling off under Derm Shield. This is normal.
- The surrounding area of your tattoo may feel inflamed right after your tattoo or feel sore the next day.
- You may feel very tired after your tattoo. If its a larger tattoo I don’t recommend planning anything bigger than a nap and a meal afterwards.
- Your tattoo may look milky even up to a couple months after the initial 2 week heal time as your skin continues to heal
Product Recommendations
- Anti-bacterial soap; I prefer Dial bar or liquid
- Hustle Butter tattoo care; sold at Ulta or Amazon
- Unscented lightweight white lotion; Eucerin, Aveeno or Lubriderm are good ones.
Do’s and Don’ts:
For the first two weeks: DON’T
- Do not submerge in water; i.e bathtub, lake, ocean, hot tub or sauna. Do not let water run on your tattoo excessively.
- Do not wear sunscreen for the first two weeks.
- Do not expose to direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Avoid excessive sweating; this may cause bacteria growth and/or wrap to fall off.
- Do not pick at scabs/itch tattoo; reopening your tattoo can put you at risk for infection.
- Do not reapply a second skin or any other wrap if yours falls off.
- Do not apply Neosporin, coconut oil or anything other than recommended care.
- Do not get advice from your friends regarding the care of your tattoo.
- Don’t apply excessive moisturizer; if your tattoo is seeping you are applying too much.
- Do not wash or dry your tattoo with a bath towel; paper towel or air dry only.
- Do not wear compression gear or tight clothing over your tattoo.
- Do not scrub your tattoo.
Do
- Wash hands prior to washing tattoo.
- Let tattoo dry completely before moisturizing; gently pat with paper towel or air dry.
- Use a chapstick thin layer of unscented moisturizer while tattoo is healing.
- Keep tattoo clean and dry.
- Follow your artist’s instructions and feel free to contact with any questions.
- To keep your tattoo looking good for years to come apply SPF 30+ sunscreen and keep skin moisturized. I keep sunscreen in the car just for my tattoos. Sun damage WILL affect the look of your tattoo.
Your tattoo is an open wound. The better you take care of it, the better it will heal. Every body and every tattoo is different. Some heal more quickly, while others take more time.
Initial heal time is generally 2-4 weeks. If your tattoo appears to have become infected, contact your physician.
Thank you for taking good care of your tattoo!