AFTERCARE
There isn't one perfect way to heal tattoos, as it varies from person to person. You may find something works for you but not for someone else. However, here's the basics to get you started and to best help you look after your new tattoo!
Always wash your hands before and after touching a healing tattoo.
Unless you have an allergy I normally apply Saniderm “second skin” after your tattoo. I recommend to leave this on between 2-4 days.
Depending on tattoo size, I will give you another piece of Saniderm. If the original dressing falls or water gets in from the shower, please change it. You can do this by taking the dressing off as instructed below, and once clean and air dry, apply the new Saniderm with clean hands. DO NOT MOISTURISE TATTOO BEFORE APPLYING DRESSING. This can stay for a further 2-4 days. If the original dressing stays for at least 2 days, you don’t have to cover it again.
Some excess ink build up/blood/plasma under the bandage is normal, you can gently pat dry any small leaks with kitchen roll.
It is best to take dressing off in the shower under running water to help it unstick!
If you suspect an allergic reaction to the Saniderm (redness or itching around skin or example) remove it as instructed, and once clean and dry, re wrap with clean clingfilm. Micropore/medical tape will help the bandage stay.
If using clingfilm, it must to be changed ideally morning, midday and evening. Clean and dry the tattoo before applying fresh clingfilm with clean hands. DO NOT MOISTURISE TATTOO BEFORE COVERING. Follow above instructions for 24-48hrs after getting your tattoo. Once you’re ready to stop covering it and tattoo is clean, give it plenty of time to air out and then apply moisturiser.
Shoot me an email in the rare care of allergy to the dressing
Once the Saniderm/clingfilm is taken off and you don’t need to re-cover anymore:
Wash GENTLY morning and evening with warm water and non-fragranced simple/gentle soap, don’t scrub it.
Pat dry with clean kitchen roll or let air dry
Moisturise with a small amount of your preferred moisturiser. Make sure the tattoo is COMPLETELY air dry before moisturising. Applying too much/too often or applying when the tattoo is still wet can lead to the tattoo not being able to dry out and becoming irritated.
Feel free to apply a little more during the day once the tattoo feels dry + previous moisturiser has evaporated.
Palmer's Cocoa butter is recommended.
Your tattoo can take on average 1-3 weeks to heal depending on size, design, placement and how quickly your own body heals.
Do not soak your tattoo until it's fully healed (around 2-3 weeks), no baths, swimming or soaking for too long in the shower.
Do not pick or scratch your healing tattoo.
Avoid direct sunlight/UV until healed and afterwards is best to use high factor sunscreen on your tattoos to keep them looking their best.
if you have any worries or questions regarding healing your tattoo, you can DM me on instagram @loverat.tattoo :) or email loverat.tattoo@gmail.com
Touch ups are always free!