Tattoo Aftercare
For a plastic wrap bandage, leave on 2 hours, or up to overnight.
For saniderm bandage, you may leave on for up to 24 hours.
If your artist recommends using a second saniderm bandage, that second bandage can be left on for up to 6 days after cleaning the area and rebandaging. For more info visit saniderm.com
When ready to remove bandage, have an unscented antibacterial soap ready. (Dr. Bronnors castile soap, Dial liquid antabacterial soap) Wash your hands with that first, and then use the soap and cool water to wash off any blood, plasma, ink, or skin that may have sloughed off while your tattoo was resting. Wash gently until clean.
Do not rebandage!!
Do not touch your fresh tattoo with a towel to dry. Let air dry, or use a clean paper towel if you must.
If your skin feels tight or dry after washing, you may apply a petroleum based ointment to the tattoo. (aquaphor, A and D ointment, cerave healing ointment) Only a very thin layer is needed, do not over saturate with ointment. You may apply 1-2 times a day. You may also skip this step and wait until day 3 to apply an unscented lotion if you aren’t experiencing any discomfort due to dryness.
If you live with animals or your tattoo is in an area that is easily bumped, it’s a good idea to cover the area with clean, breathable clothing for the first 1-3 days. Cotton, or breathable workout clothing is best.
If your tattoo continues to ooze, monitor it and wash it with the soap 1-2 times a day until it dries out. If your tattoo continues to ooze, you may be applying too much ointment.
Around day 3, you may switch to an unscented lotion if you prefer. (cerave moisturizing cream, curel, lubriderm). 1-3 times a day or as needed. Your tattoo will begin to peel around day 5-7. Do not scratch or pick at the area. Applying lotion will help with the itchiness.
Tattoos take two weeks to heal on average.
Do not soak your tattoo while it is healing, This includes bathing, hot tubs, swimming, dish washing, etc. Showers are fine. Exercising is fine, but do not wear clothes that rub on the area, especially while sweating, and do not exercise in a public space with a bandaged tattoo! Do not exercise with a fresh tattoo exposed to gym surfaces either. Breathable workout clothing that covers the area is recommended as well as a shower immediately after sweating. Avoid recreational water activities, gardening, or contact with animals for two weeks.
Avoid sun exposure during the healing process, and after your tattoo is healed, applying sunscreen before sun exposure will help your tattoo stay brighter longer.
Infection at the procedure site is rare, but it does happen. Signs and symptoms of infection include but are not limited to, excessive redness, excessive swelling, excessive tenderness of the procedure site, red streaks going from the procedure site towards the heart, elevated body temperature, or purulent drainage from the procedure site. If you have any of these symptoms seek medical care immediately.
You can always contact us with any questions you might have
Pretty In Ink: Alameda - Contact your artist directly or email prettyininkalameda@gmail.com
Pretty In Ink: Oakland - Contact your artist directly or call 510.817.4945. Our Oakland location is open every day 12-6pm