TATTOO AFTERCARE
The Art of Healing
01
Recovery Derm Shield
For the first 3-6 days after your tattoo session, your new piece will be covered with Recovery Derm Shield. If you notice blood, ink, and plasma pooling up under your bandage, fear not! That is what we call an "Ink Sack" and that is completely normal. You may get an "Ink Sack", you may not. During this time no aftercare routine is required, however it is best if you keep your fresh tattoo out of direct sunlight as much as possible, and refrain from submerging it in water for 4-6 weeks.
02
Removing Your Derm Shield
Your bandage should stay secure for 3-6 days. However, in the event of it leaking or if part of your tattoo becomes exposed to open air, go ahead and remove the entire bandage. I find that a steamy shower often helps me remove the Derm Shield, as the vapors help to release the adhesive. It can also help to get some assistance from a friend if you're having trouble reaching all of the bandage.
03
After Derm Shield
Keeping your tattoo clean is crucial. Always wash your hands before washing your tattoo or applying ointment. Wash it 2-3 times a day using fragrance-free antibacterial soap, more often if you get into messy situations. Always dry your tattoo with a clean paper towel. After washing, apply the AfterInked Tattoo Ointment that I provide. Use the ointment in the morning, once or twice during the day, and again before bed. If your tattoo feels particularly dry, apply ointment more often rather than increasing the amount.
04
Stages of Healing
There are four healing stages for your tattoo, and the Derm Shield takes care of the first stage for you. The second stage is generally flaking, scabs falling off, and the dreadful itch. In the third stage, the tattoo may look fully healed, but it may still look cloudy for a few weeks. Deeper layers of skin are still repairing, so it's important to continue to care for the tattoo. Peeling is typical for the first three stages of healing. The AfterInked ointment tends to help with all of those symptoms, as does washing it. Heal times vary client to client, but generally tattoos reach the fourth stage, fully healed, in 4-6 weeks.