Tattoo Aftercare Guide
IMPORTANT DON'Ts (First 2 Weeks)
⚠️ STRICTLY PROHIBITED:
- NO alcohol or drugs on tattoo day
- NO swimming or soaking in water (baths, hot tubs)
- NO direct sunlight on tattoo
- NO intense exercise for first 3 days
- NO tight clothing over tattoo
- NO pets near the tattoo (prevent licking/touching)
Initial Care (0-24 hours)
If covered with Glad Wrap:
- Remove after 3-4 hours
- Gently rinse with running water
- ⚠️ Do NOT reapply Glad Wrap
If covered with Second Skin:
- Keep on for 24 hours
- Remove if allergic reaction occurs (redness/itching along film edges)
- Remove during shower: peel horizontally, not upward
- Clean gently under running water
Cleaning Instructions
Basic Steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly
2. Run lukewarm water over tattoo
3. Using clean hands only, very gently wash the area with circular motions
4. Rinse thoroughly with running water
5. Air dry for 10-15 minutes after each wash
6. Apply thin layer of cream after completely dry
Important Notes:
- NO sponges, towels, or washcloths
- Gentle, fragrance-free soap is okay
- Never scrub or rub harshly
- Clean 2-3 times daily
Moisturizing Care
First 2 Weeks:
- Wait until completely air-dried before applying cream
- Apply very thin layer of aftercare cream
- Too much cream will clog pores and cause acne/skin problems
- Reapply 3-5 times daily or when feeling dry
- Days 5-7: Itching is normal - DON'T scratch!
- DON'T pick scabs - let them fall off naturally
Weeks 2-4:
- Morning and evening application
- Continue thin layers
Second Skin Method (if using)
- Replace first film within 24 hours
- Subsequent films can stay on up to 3 days
- Apply 1-2cm larger than tattoo area
- Overlap edges by minimum 1cm if using multiple pieces
- Change when fluid buildup becomes visible
Protecting Your Environment
- Ink leakage is normal for 2-3 days
- Use dark cotton shirts/towels to protect bedding
- Place clean, dark cotton materials between tattoo and surfaces
- ⚠️ Tattoo ink stains are permanent on fabric
Long-Term Care
- Keep moisturized even after healing
- ⚠️ NO sunscreen until fully healed
- Cover tattoo from sun during healing
- After healing: ALWAYS use sunscreen
- Well-moisturized tattoos stay vibrant longer
Warning Signs
Remove Second Skin immediately if:
- Redness along film edges
- Itching
- Unusual discomfort
❓ Questions? Message me anytime!
Remember
- Less is more with cream application
- Clean hands are essential
- When in doubt, reach out