AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

Now that you’ve been tattooed, understanding the aftercare process is your next important step. We've put together a comprehensive guide to help you care for your new tattoo and ensure proper healing. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin reacts differently—factors like skin type and sensitivity play a big role in how your tattoo heals. This means your healing experience may differ from someone else’s, so try not to compare your process to others. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist—there’s no such thing as a “dumb” question!

  • At the end of your session, your artist will apply a bandage to your tattoo. Keep this bandage on for at least one hour.

  • Once removed, wash your hands and gently cleanse the tattoo using a mild, unscented antibacterial soap. Do not scrub. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean paper towel—avoid using bath towels or cloths, which can harbor bacteria.

  • Treat your tattoo like an open wound.

  • Wash the area twice daily for the first week.

  • Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer or ointment with clean hands. Reapply as needed, but avoid over- or under-moisturizing, as both can affect healing.

  • Expect some peeling or flaking as the top layer heals—this is normal. Do not pick, rub, or scratch.

  • Wear loose clothing to prevent friction on the fresh tattoo.

  • Tattoos generally take three weeks to heal and up to a month to fully settle. Deeper healing under the skin can take up to 6 months.

  • Avoid direct sunlight for the first month. After that, use sunscreen to protect your tattoo—extended sun exposure will cause fading over time.

  • Do not submerge the tattoo in water (baths, pools, oceans) for at least a month.

  • For the first week, avoid heavy workouts that stress or excessively sweat the tattooed area.

If you have questions during the healing process, please contact the shop or your artist directly. We are always happy to help!

COMMONLY ASKED TATTOO AFTERCARE QUESTIONS 

  • The number of times you will use a tattoo ointment or lotion is often recommended, depending on the tattoo's size. If the tattoo is big and takes up a lot of area on your skin, then you should apply it at least 2-3 times daily. If the tattoo is small, once or twice is more than enough. Always remember that you must take a small amount of cream and apply it slowly over the tattoo. 

    It’s important not to over-apply the tattoo ointment. It can cut air circulation and cause more harm than good. Always clean the tattoo once before you apply the tattoo ointment.

    It’s important not to over-apply the tattoo ointment. It can cut air circulation and cause more harm than good. Always clean the tattoo once before you apply the tattoo ointment.

  • Many factors decide the time that is needed to heal your tattoo. Usually, it takes three to four weeks for the upper layer of skin to heal. In this stage, the scabs start peeling off, and you are in the process of recovering the layer that is being traumatized the most.  However, patience is essential because the underneath layer is not yet healed.  The layer underneath your skin will take much longer to heal, and it usually takes up to six months to completely heal.

  • Gently clean and pat dry the tattoo and surrounding area, ensuring there is no soap or any residue on the skin. Cut the Derm Shield to cover tattooed area plus a 1"–2" margin from the edge of the tattoo. Peel off backing and position the Derm Shield over tattoo with the adhesive side facing the skin. Gently apply using light pressure, starting from the center to the edges to eliminate air bubbles. Do not stretch the Derm Shield during application. The first Derm Shield application should stay in place for 24 hours, depending on level of exudation. It is normal for blood and fluids to collect under the bandage. A second application can be used for several days, and a third application may be used if necessary. Gently clean and dry the area between applications. Do not wear any piece longer than one week.

     

    Directions for Removal

    Gently peel the Derm Shield by pulling it slowly from the edge back over itself. Avoid pulling upwards.

     

    Caution

    For external use only. Use only as directed. Do not apply to infected wounds. This product contains adhesives and may cause allergic reactions in people with adhesive allergies. If an allergic reaction or any irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately. Consult a physician if the reaction or irritation is severe.