Aftercare Instructions

Every Artist recommends something slightly different, but the following instructions are the methods I recommend for healing one of my tattoos.

Dermshield* Tattoo Aftercare

-I recommend leaving your dermshield on your tattoo for between 24 and 48 hours, but with a definite 72 hour maximum. You will notice fluid collecting underneath the shield, and that is normal. It will help to keep your tattoo moisturized during the process. Once it seems that fluid is dried underneath the bandage it is a good rule of thumb that the dermshield is ready to be removed. The dermshield is waterproof but you should avoid exposing the bandage to excessive heat, (for example: extremely hot showers, direct sunlight, heating pads etc.) as this can mess with the adhesive and the healing of your tattoo. If you leave the dermshield on for too long the adhesive can be left behind on the skin, or even lift up healing scabs and ink from your skin damaging the integrity of your skin and the tattoo as a result. The dermshield is meant to protect your skin from infection when it is most vulnerable. Once you remove the derm shield the tattoo should be mostly closed over, meaning the skin is not “wet” or oozing any longer.

-To most easily remove the dermshield, use soap and water and peel off slowly. I recommend pulling straight up or down parallel to the surface of the tattoo (like a command strip). If any adhesive is left behind, do not pick at it, just let it slowly come off with the washing and moisturizing process.

-After removing the dermshield continue with typical aftercare, which is also desribed on this page under “exposed tattoo aftercare” starting at the second bullet point.

*Dermshield, or Saniderm is a clear healing tape used by tattooers and the medical industry to aid with healing. People have been known to experience allergic reactions to the adhesive, so if you are experiencing pain and redness outside if the normal scope of a healing tattoo, itching, or pimple like bumps under the dermshield, please remove it and wash with antibacterial soap and warm water as soon as possible. If you continue to experience a reaction or complications always go to the doctor.

Exposed Tattoo Aftercare

-Upon returning home from your appointment, remove any temporary wrapping you were given to protect your fresh tattoo during your travels; do not sleep with the wrap you were given, but you can wash and rewrap with fresh saran wrap overnight on day one if you desire but after that it will need to dry out and breathe. Make sure you wear clean breathable clothes out and to bed, have clean sheets, and keep your tattoo away from direct sunlight, pet mess, or any other dirt you could expose it to. Clean longe sleeve shirts or pants are typically enough protection past day one, and if it gets dirty just use the antibacterial soap to thoroughly clean it.

-Wash your tattoo with a fragrance free and dye free antibacterial soap, I recommend Dial Antibacterial & Sensitive Soap. If you would like a natural alternative you can use Dr. Bronner’s Pure Unscented Castile Liquid Soap in the light blue bottle. Either can be found at most pharmacies and grocery stores. Wash your tattoo at least once in the morning and once at night, as well as anytime it gets dirty or exposed to contaminants, this is crucial to avoid infection in the first few days while your tattoo is still an open wound. Continue this for 2-3 weeks.

-For Moisturizing your tattoo I recommend something unscented and dye free, and something to provide a nice barrier layer. I use Aquaphor* or an extra thick moisturizer such as a rich Eucerin for the first week. Apply a thin layer of your chosen moisturizer, and you may use something lighter if you have sensitive skin. You know your skin best, just be sure to keep the healing skin moisturized. After week one you can switch to a lighter moisturizer if you would like to. Moisturize at least twice a day after washing, and when it becomes itchy or looks flakey. Keep in mind you want your tattoo to be able to breathe, so do not smother it in lotion because this can also impede healing.

-In general while healing (the first 2-3 weeks), avoid the following:

  • Submerging in water; swimming, baths, hot tubs, rivers, oceans, lakes, sinks full of dirty dishes etc. (please don’t go in any outdoor body of water please please please)

  • scratching or picking at your tattoo

  • direct sunlight

  • heavy exercise (especially the first week)

  • pet paws, pet hair, pet mouths

    contaminants in general

-If you suspect infection or an allergic reaction, please do not wait for my confirmation and always go to the doctor to seek medical care.

*Aquaphor contains an animal product called lanolin sourced from sheep, so generally if you are allergic to wool you should not use Aquaphor. Do not use vaseline as a replacement it is not good for tattoo healing.