A tattoo is one of the most dynamic symbols of body art ever created and it is important to rely on the expert guidance of your artist for the proper aftercare of your life-long treasure.
Your skin was tattooed in a modern studio with sterilized instruments and pigments and, after the process, your artist has dressed the tattoo.
The long life of your tattoo depends upon the aftercare you give it during the critical first few days.
Be sure clothing touching your tattoo is clean and soft.
A tattoo is considered minor surgery. It may bleed a bit at first but will stop within a couple hours. Keep bandaged for two to five hours.
If gauze sticks to skin, soak the area with cold water until the gauze loosens, then remove carefully.
Once the tattoo is exposed, wash it carefully in cold water, gently applying antibacterial soap with fingers (never use a cloth) to remove all surface blood.
Rinse with cold water, pat dry with a clean towel, and let air dry for 15 minutes. Then, gently and sparingly apply a thin layer of vitamin A and D ointment.
Repeat 2-3 times per day for 5-7 days.
After 5-7 days, the tattoo may start to peel (this is normal) and scab. DO NOT pick or peel the skin away. Let it fall of naturally during washing.
Fresh skin will soon replace the dead skin. Colors may fade during the process, but will return when healing is completed. During this process apply non scented lotion (such as Curel) 3-5 times per day.
Lotion will keep your tattoo from drying and the skin moist. But always apply sparingly. Too much prevents the skin/tattoo from breathing, and can cause leaching of the colors. If this happens, wash the tattoo, pat dry, and call me at your earliest convenience.
After a few weeks, all scabbing will be gone, but the area may still be sensitive. Continue regular cleaning and application of lotion..