The first 48-72 hours are the most important to set your new tattoo up for success on its healing journey. Once your tattoo session is done, I’ll typically place Saniderm (aka Second Skin, Recovery Dermshield, etc.) over your fresh tattoo. It’s recommended that you keep this bandage on for at least 2-3 days . This bandage is completely waterproof and it should stay in place. Over the course of the next couple of hours/days you will notice some build up or a puddle-like situation going on inside of the bandage. This is completely normal. Your tattoo is “weeping”. This is your body pushing out plasma and excess ink. This is not an issue and is completely natural. (I’ll go over this process in another blog post) If it starts leaking outside the bandage and onto your clothing, go ahead and remove it. After the 2-3 day period follow these steps to properly clean your tattoo:
-With clean hands, remove the bandage. It's best to be removed in the shower.
-Wash off excess plasma and ink with warm water and unscented antibacterial soap.
-Pat dry with a clean towel.
-Once completely dry, apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer. (A&D ointment, Aquaphor, Jergens, CeraVe, Lubriderm, etc.)
-For the first week, clean and moisturize 2-3 times per day.
Aftercare Products to look for :)
The overall time frame for your new tattoo to be fully healed is about 3-3.5 weeks. You’ll experience some itching and flaking during this time, so moisturize daily. You can always contact me with any questions or concerns about your healing process.
Happy Healing <3
