Aftercare
Derma Bandage
After your tattoo we will wrap you in a clear adhesive bandage called Derma Shield! It is a breathable barrier that acts as a second skin while your tattoo is healing. DO NOT do any activity that would cause you to sweat while you are wearing this bandage, you do NOT want to trap perspiration inside with your new tattoo.
We highly recommend keeping your Derma Bandage on for 3-5 days. During that time the tattoo will produce plasma (liquid) underneath the bandage. DO NOT release the fluid, it will be reabsorbed by your body. Once the plasma is reabsorbed, you can remove your bandage.
You can shower with this bandage on, but do not let the water run over the bandage until it is time to remove it as that will begin to release the seal.
If your bandage leaks, or opens up in any way, it’s best to take it off and follow the instructions below.
After 3-5 days, remove your bandage with CLEAN hands. It is best to take this bandage off in the shower. Let the warm water run over the bandage and begin to release the adhesive. Then gently loosen an edge and pull along the skin like stretching a Command strip. The bandage will stretch in a similar fashion and slowly release from the skin. AVOID pulling directly up or away from the skin (like you might rip off a Band-Aid) as that can cause unnecessary irritation when removing the bandage.
Once the bandage is removed, wash the tattoo with a mild unscented liquid soap and warm water. Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or let air dry.
After your tattoo is fully dry, apply a small amount of healing ointment (ex. Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, etc.). Rub it in gently and then pat off any excess. Just enough should be used so that the skin is soft, not shiny.
Healing Process
Everyone has a different healing process and ability! We like to recommend 4 to 8 weeks to allow your body to fully heal from getting a tattoo!
You have gotten your bandage off, great job!! Next we will need you to take care of that open wound as you heal.
Wash, dry, and moisturize your tattoo as described above 2-3 times a day for 3-4 weeks. After 2 weeks you can switch from a healing ointment to an unscented lotion. Use healing ointment as needed when your tattoo feels extra dry, itchy, or tight.
Within the first week, your tattoo may start to itch. A dry flakey layer of skin may form on the tattoo. Let the skin slough off naturally. Small flecks of color will come off during this process: this is normal, it’s not the ink coming out of your tattoo. DO NOT pick or scratch at the tattoo. Doing so could seriously affect the look of your tattoo when healed and could create scarring. HOT TIP: if the itchy sensation is too much to bear, try giving the area a quick slap WITH CLEAN HANDS.
Failure to follow the aftercare directions properly can extend your healing time, cause an infection, or prevent your tattoo from looking its best when healed. Infection is rare, but to reduce your risk: wear loose and clean clothing, change your sheets regularly (especially if you have pets), only touch your tattoo with clean hands, and do not allow others to touch your healing tattoo. Some warmth, redness, and irritation is normal. But if you suspect infection, please consult a health professional at the first sign.
Special Attention!
Things to NOT do with a new Tattoo:
No hot tubs, pools, saunas, or lakes until your tattoo is completely healed. It is necessary to shower and clean the tattoo regularly, but it should NOT be soaked in water for long periods of time. Doing so can increase your risk of infection and can have consequences that can negatively affect the look of your healed tattoo.
No excessive sweating for at least a week (2-3 weeks is preferable). We don’t want sweat or grime to have the chance to sit on the tattoo as this increases the risk of infection and adverse healing outcomes. If you cannot avoid the sweat (say you work as a line cook in a hot sweaty kitchen), please make sure to keep your tattoo completely protected and covered with airy breathable fabric during your shift, and then wash your tattoo with CLEAN HANDS immediately afterwards.
No tanning or direct sun exposure on the tattoo until it has healed completely. Whenever you’re in the sun, your tattoo MUST be covered by your clothing. You CANNOT use sunscreen on the area until your tattoo is healed. Once your tattoo has healed, the use of sunscreen is highly recommended as excessive exposure to the sun will fade and damage a tattoo’s appearance. We recommend using a sunblock with at least SPF 30 applied every 2hrs.
No touching your tattoo without cleaning your hands first!! And even with clean hands, please keep touching to a minimum. We know you love your new tattoo, and you want to admire it ALL THE TIME, but please let it be until it’s healed. This also means PLEASE keep your tattoo away from licking pets, over curious friends, and small children (they love you but boo-boo kissing is a no).
Please reach out to us at strangelyrabideyes@gmail.com with any questions! We’ve seen it all and we’re happy to walk you through any questions or concerns you may have!!
Recommended Products
Everyone's Skin has different needs, and everyone heals differently! Here are some products that generally do well for healing a tattoo! Do what is best for you, these are all just come recommended. Please make sure you do not get the baby or diaper rash versions of these due to having drying agents in them!
Healing Ointments
Soaps
Unscented Lotions
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion