AFTER-CARE ADVICE
Getting a new tattoo involves breaking the skin surface so there is always a potential risk for infection to occur afterwards. Your new tattoo should be treated as a wound initially and it is important that this advice is followed so that the infection risk is minimised.
- Avoid any unnecessary touching, scratching or picking of your new tattoo to reduce risk of introducing infection.
- Your tattoo should be treated as a wound initially and it is important that this advice is followed so that the infection risk is minimised.
- Your new tattoo will consist of an area of tiny skin breaks, caused by the tattooing needles, so it should be kept covered afterwards for at least an hour using sterile, non-adherent dressing applied by your tattooist.
- The dressing is only intended to get your home without the treated area catching on clothing, or being exposed to the air. The dressing will also help stop any bleeding/weeping.
- Always wash and dry your hands before and after handling your new tattoo.
- After removal of that dressing, FIRMLY wash the tattoo site with warm water and soap, preferably shower gel. Grit your teeth and really get in there.
- After washing pat dry with a clean hand towel or paper towel. DO NOT rub or your skin will become irritated.
- Repeat this washing process, twice a day for 2 weeks.
- If possible, shower rather than bathe whilst the tattoo is healing so that unnecessary water exposure is prevented.
- Do not use skin products on the tattoo that have not been recommended by your tattooist. We recommend Cocoa butter. Apply this 2-3 times a day to assist in healing and prevent skin cracking. DO NOT share your cream with others or use petroleum based creams as this may affect the colour of your new tattoo.
- After approximately 2-3 weeks, any scabbing should improve and the area should be completely healed in a further 14-21 days.
- Avoid swimming, sun beds, sun bathing, fake tan and any make up until your new tattoo has fully healed, as direct sunlight, chlorine/chemicals can interact with tattoo dye pigments causing skin irritation and inflammation.
- Try to wear loose, cotton clothing to minimise rubbing and irritation to a new tattoo.
- Always keep a new tattoo covered and protected if working in a dirty/dusty/oily environment.
- If you have any problems/queries, contact your original tattooist initially. He/she will refer you onto your GP if there are any signs of adverse reaction/infection.