Caring for your new tattoo

WITH SECOND SKIN / SANIDERM

If your tattoo is covered with Saniderm (Second Skin), it's highly recommended to leave the bandage in place for a good 3-4 days.

During this time, don't be surprised if you see some fluid gathering beneath the bandage. It is completely normal. But if that bandage starts leaking or the skin lifts up to expose some of your tattoo, it's time to take it off and follow the standard aftercare instructions below. Feel free to trim some of the edges if they have lifted.

Once those 3-4 days have passed, gently remove the Saniderm bandage under warm running water. Remember, don't peel it off like a Band-Aid. Instead, stretch it from each side. That way, the adhesive comes off smoothly without messing up your beautiful new tattoo or smudging any ink.

Gently wash your tattoo with a mild, unscented soap and warm water. By this stage, your tattoo should be well on its way to healing. Ensure to keep it dry through the healing process.

Around 6 hrs after removing the Saniderm, apply your aftercare cream and continue to use 2 times a day for around 3 weeks or until it is completely healed.

Note: if you experience an allergic reaction (rash, itchy skin, skin irritation) to Saniderm, please remove immediately. If conditions persist it is best to consult a doctor.

STANDARD BANDAGE / CLING WRAP

Leave the bandage on for 2-3 hours, or otherwise specified at the time of your tattoo.

Prior to touching your tattoo, thoroughly wash your hands with soap to maintain cleanliness.

After removing the bandage, gently cleanse your tattoo with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Try to gently remove any plasma or excess ink. Avoid using any abrasive materials to clean the tattoo.

Rinse off the soap and gently pat the tattoo dry with a disposable paper towel.

For proper healing, wash your tattoo twice a day, once in the morning and once at night until your tattoo is healed. Refrain from submerging the tattoo in water for an extended period until it has fully healed. This includes activities like bathing or swimming.

Over the next few days, you may notice that your tattoo becomes flaky, dry, and tight. To alleviate this, apply a small amount of fragrance-free, non-greasy lotion sparingly to your tattoo 1-2 times a day. Gently rub the lotion until it is fully absorbed into your skin. Avoid over-moisturizing the tattoo. Allow the scabs to naturally fall off without picking or scratching the area. It is normal for the tattoo to appear slightly dull during the healing process, but this will fade over a few weeks.

If possible, try to wear loose fitting clothes over the area to allow your new tattoo to breath.

SOAPS TO USE

While your tattoo is healing, I recommend that you use a mild fragrance free soap.

AFTERCARE CREAM

I highly recommend using a vitamin rich , shea butter for healing. There are plenty out there if you are looking for alternative option.

Please do not use pawpaw creams, any fragrance moisturisers or ointments. Ointments may prevent your tattoo from healing correctly due to not allowing it to breath.

LOOKING AFTER YOUR TATTOO

Applying sunscreen to your tattoos is of utmost importance as it significantly contributes to prolonging the life and vibrancy of your new marking. Tattoos are not just pieces of art; they are investments of personal expression and storytelling that deserve to be protected. Sun exposure can be detrimental to the longevity of tattoos, causing fading and distortion over time. Embracing this simple yet crucial habit allows you to cherish and enjoy your tattoos as they age gracefully with you.

DO NOT UNTIL YOUR TATTOO IS FULLY HEALED (3-4 WEEKS)

• Swim in pools and the ocean

• Submerg it in water

• Direct sun exposure (sunbathing, tanning)

• Touch the tattoo with unwashed hands

• Dryi with unclean towel

• Do NOT pick at flaking skin and scabs

• Do NOT rub or scratch the tattooed area