• Leave your wrap on for 2-3 hours after your appointment. Avoid leaving the wrap on longer as plasma / blood and excess fluid can build up creating a breeding ground for bacteria - resulting in excessive inflammation. 

• To aid with discomfort following your session, you can use  anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (only as directed), or a clean cool compress & wear clean clothing / sleep in clean bedding. 

• Listen to what your tattoo artist advises, everyone can have differing advice - especially if you are using 2nd Skin.

• Make sure your hands are clean before removing the wrap on your tattoo, then in a shower rinse and clean the tattoo with lukewarm water & unscented soap.

• Avoid soaking or scrubbing your tattoo, then using a clean paper towel or towel (fabric needs to be clean as it can carry a lot of germs) pat dry your tattoo. 

• You will need to repeat this cleaning process for the following two weeks while your tattoo heals.
  If your tattoo has heavy black work you may be instructed to re-apply glad wrap overnight to help keep the tattoo clean.

• You only need to start applying your preferred aftercare balm after 24hours, I personally use a thin layer of Dr. Pickles, HustleButter or Bepanthen using clean hands, 2-3x a day for around a week.

• Using an antiseptic balm is important if you have a low immune system because you may need to support your bodies healing process. 

• Avoid over using balm as excessive hydration can cause irritation & inflammation. 

DO NOT,

• Scratch, rub, or pick at the tattoo.

• Soak your tattoo, avoid swimming / baths / saunas for the first month.

• Expose your tattoo to direct sunlight until it is fully healed (then you can use sunscreen in the future).

DO,

• Drink lots of water, & get plenty of rest.

• Soak your tattoo, avoid swimming / baths / saunas for the first month.

• Keep your tattoo clean, wear clean clothes, and clean your tattoo daily.

• It is normal for your tattoo to react with swelling, minor bruising, weeping, redness, light scabbing, itching (slap lightly with clean hands / don’t scratch !)

If you experience extreme pain, fever symptoms, or excessive swelling then you should reach out to your local health care provider. You’re always welcome to get in touch if you have any questions.