It is recommended that you leave your bandage on for 2-4 hours after the tattoo procedure, unless otherwise specified.

If you were bandaged with Hypafix (Second Skin bandage) it is recommended that you leave it on for 2-5 days. In the event the bandage peels back exposing the tattoo, if the discharge inside the bandage is leaking out, or if there is increasing redness and irritation from the bandage, it must be taken off and washed immediately. Hypafix is best taken off in the shower or with running water. Brace the skin to gently pull off. Do not pull hard or fast as it will cause unnecessary trauma to the skin.

Immediately after the removal of your tattoo bandage, wash your tattoo with an unscented or mild soap (SENSATIVE Dove). Always wash your hands before touching your new tattoo. Work up a good lather in your hands and gently but thoroughly wash the surface of your tattoo until all the excess discharge is gone. Rinse with warm water, but avoid direct water pressure, letting the water hit above or beside the tattoo and flow over it, or lightly splash the water over your tattoo until it is fully rinsed off. Pat dry with a clean towel. You will need to wash your new tattoo 1-2 times daily the same way for the next 2 weeks.

Once your tattoo is clean and completely dry, apply a thin layer of the aftercare product that was recommended to you with clean hands (After Inked, UNSCENTED Lubriderm, UNSCENTED Aveeno). You want to use just enough to keep your tattoo from drying out. Do not use excessive amounts, you want the tattoo to look dry but feel hydrated. You will apply the tattoo aftercare 1-3 times daily for the next 2 weeks or when it is dry, itchy or tight.

After a few days your tattoo will start to dry out and peel, this is normal and it will resemble the peeling of a sunburn. You may also experience some scabbing. DO NOT pick or scratch the flakes or scabs during your healing process as this will damage your tattoo. Let the flakes and scabs fall off naturally. If you are washing or applying aftercare to the tattoo and the flakes/scabs are coming off gently they are ready to come off and it is okay.

DO NOT expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for the first 2 weeks of your healing process, as this will cause damage to your new tattoo. Especially with the hypafix bandage on. This includes tanning beds! After the 2 week healing period with all the scabs and flakes gone you should apply a sun screen SPF 40 or stronger to help preserve your tattoo and help with ageing.

DO NOT submerge your new tattoo in any body of water for the first 2 weeks (baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, rivers, etc.) as all of these can contain foreign bacteria and chemicals that can be damaging to your healing tattoo. Running water such as showering is fine while the tattoo is healing, just avoid direct water pressure against your tattoo during the 2 week healing period as this can be damaging/painful to your new tattoo.

DO treat your new tattoo like a fresh open wound. Be mindful when applying cosmetics, deodorants, scented soaps, perfumes, etc. as any foreign substance entering your tattoo during the healing process can and will most likely cause complications. This also includes other peoples sweat/bodily fluids and pets hair/bodily fluids. Redness and mild irritation during the first couple days are normal for a new tattoo. If you have any signs of: increased pain, heat/warmth to the area, drainage of puss, swelling, continued redness and irritation, red streaks extending from the affected area, or fever, you may have an infection. It is highly recommend that you contact your family doctor and/or health care practitioner.

A free touch-up is offered, as long as the provided aftercare is followed. It is recommended to wait a full month before your touch-up and the free touch-up will only be guaranteed for a 3 month period following the tattoo.

Please contact your artist if you have any questions or concerns.