AFTERCARE
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Bandage: Remove after 4–5 hours (small tattoos) or the next morning (large tattoos). Do not re-bandage.
Wash: Clean immediately after unbandaging using warm water, fingertips, and mild soap. Repeat 2–3 times daily for the first 2 days, then once daily (or as needed) until healed.
Dry: Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel - do not rub.
Moisturize: After 2–3 days (once feeling tight and dry), apply a light layer of unscented, water-based lotion (e.g., Aveeno) 2–3 times daily.
Protect:
Do not pick or scratch scabs.
No direct sun, hot tubs, pools, lakes or soaking for 3 weeks (showers are fine).
Apply sunscreen only after the tattoo is fully healed.
Note: Soreness, swelling, bruising, and scabbing are normal.
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If applied by your artist, skip to Step 3.
Prep: Wash, pat dry, and allow the tattoo to air-dry for a few minutes.
Apply: Remove white backing, center the sticky side over the tattoo smoothly (avoid air bubbles), then smooth down and peel off the clear plastic top layer.
Duration: Leave on for up to 7 days.
When to Remove Early:
Allergic Reaction: If you experience significant itching (within the first 48 hours), bumps, or welts, remove immediately and wash.
Broken Seal: Oozing fluid under the wrap is normal. If fluid leaks, apply a spare piece of Tegaderm over the leak to patch it (ensuring the area around the leak is clean and dry), or remove it. If it cannot be fully resealed to block air and water, remove the wrap entirely and wash.
Removal: Gently stretch the film (like a Command strip) or roll it off the skin. Dried pigment and plasma imprints on the wrap are normal.
Next Steps: Wash the tattoo after removal. Either apply a fresh piece (only if provided/advised by your artist) or switch to the Traditional Aftercare routine above.
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Touch-ups are complimentary within 3 months of your original appointment, provided the tattoo was cared for according to these instructions.
When to wait: Tattoos take 3 to 4 weeks to heal completely underneath the skin. Please wait until the area is fully healed before scheduling.
How to book: Send a clear photo of your healed tattoo in good lighting to your artist, and they will let you know if you need a touch-up.
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Hydrate: Apply moisturizer regularly to keep your skin healthy and your tattoo looking crisp and vibrant.
Protect: Wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every single time your tattoo is exposed to the sun for the rest of your life. UV rays are the #1 cause of tattoo fading!