SECOND SKIN
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Keep the adhesive bandage on for a maximum of 3 to 4 days. Since it is breathable and waterproof, you can shower with it. DO NOT use hot water. The adhesive bandage protects your new tattoo from scabbing, infection, and other irritants. The longer you are able to keep it on, the more your tattoo will be able to heal while bandaged.
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If you notice some fluid build up beneath the adhesive bandage and/or your tattoo starts looking blurry, it's just plasma! It is completely normal and helps with the healing process. Do not try to make perforations on the bandage. If the bandage starts leaking, you notice a perforation or any allergic reaction, remove it immediately.
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To remove the bandage simply run warm water (not hot) on top of your tattoo to help loosen the adhesive. Avoid pulling upward or tearing it off quickly. Instead, gently pull from the corners in the direction where the skin hair grows. Once the bandage is removed or if it has fallen off on its own, follow the steps below.
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STANDARD BANDAGE
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If recommended by your tattoo artist, you will use a standard bandage and leave it on for 2-6 hours. Then you will follow steps listed down below.
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TATTOO CARE
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1. Wash your hands well with a mild fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap before touching your new tattoo. I recommend Dial or Ivory. AVOID using perfumed/scented soaps.
2. Rinse your tattoo with warm water (not hot) and wash your tattoo using the same soap, then pat down with a clean paper towel or air dry until completely dry.
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3. Apply a THIN layer of fragrance-free, non-greasy, dye-free tattoo ointment 3-4 times a day. I recommend using Hustle Butter or any cream made especially for tattoos. Avoid using petroleum based products such as A+D Ointment, Bepanthen, Aquaphor, Vaseline, Bacitracin, and Neosporin. These products are not meant for tattoos
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4. After using the tattoo ointment for a week, time to change to a lightweight unscented lotion such as Lubriderm for the next 3 to 5 weeks or until your tattoo is fully healed.
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5. Please keep your tattoo clean and moisturized at all times. If possible, change to freshly washed bed sheets, clothes, and towel during the healing process. Disposable paper towels are great for direct contact with the tattoo when washing or drying.
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WHAT to EXPECT during the HEALING process
Over the next few days the tattoo will become flaky, dry, and tight. If a scab forms, it will be the color of the ink used. This does not mean the ink is going to fall out. Leave the scabs and let them fall off naturally. Do NOT pick or scratch the area. The tattoo may appear dull until it has completely healed - this is normal and will go away after a few weeks. Wear loose clothing over the area to prevent abrasion to the tattoo.​​
DO NOT
· Do not pick, peel, or scratch your new tattoo.
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· Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 48-72 hours after getting your tattoo. This could impact how your tattoo heals.
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· Avoid any high intensity workouts or the gym for at least 2 weeks after getting your tattoo, as would be in contact with unsanitary surfaces, abrasive clothing, and sweat can cause irritation, additional scarring and even infection.
· Do not, under any circumstance, use rubbing alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone on your new tattoo.
· Do not use sponges, washcloths, or anything abrasive while cleaning your tattoo. They harbor bacteria and may irritate or harm your tattoo.
· Do not let anyone touch your new tattoo, or touch it without washing your hands
· Do NOT go into a lake, bathtub, pool, or similar for at least 4 weeks after getting your tattoo. These all contain bacteria and can infect your new tattoo.
· Remember to keep your tattoo out of the sun during the first few weeks of healing. When your tattoo is fully healed, if you decide to expose it to the sun, I recommend applying a good SPF sunscreen over the tattoo, this will prolong the life of your tattoo.
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​Touch up
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Before deciding if your tattoo needs retouching, please allow 4 weeks minimum for it to heal completely. Once that time has passed, Message me with a picture of your tattoo and/or the concerns you have. I will respond and offer time to perform the touch-up if deemed necessary.
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The first touch-up appointment is free of charge if recommended aftercare was followed and can only be done once it has completely healed (after about 1 month) and if scheduled within 3 months of the completion of your tattoo. With the exception of non-guaranteed body parts such as fingers, hands, feet, ears, head, face and inner lips and, also, if the client has any skin condition(s) that would affect the tattooing and/or healing process. If clients would like those particular tattoos to be touched-up, I will gladly do so, but at the normal rate of the original tattoo.
Further touch-ups or alterations will require additional fees.
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Enjoy your new tattoo! If you have any questions, do not hesitate to Message me
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Carli Cherry <3
sour cherry tats