GENERAL GUIDELINES
- A tattoo is an open wound—proper care is essential for healing and longevity.
- Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
- Avoid swimming, soaking, or excessive sun exposure during the healing process.
- Do not scratch, pick, or peel your tattoo. Let it heal naturally.
HEALING METHODS
There are two common healing methods: cream-based healing and second skin bandage healing. I will let you know which method is best for your tattoo, so follow the instructions below for the method I recommend.
METHOD 1: AFTERCARE WITH CREAM
Day 1:
- (Right After Your Tattoo) Your tattoo will be wrapped with cling film or a protective bandage. Leave this on for 2–4 hours.
- Remove the wrap and wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap (such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser or Dr. Bronner’s).
- Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel (avoid using cloth towels).
Days 2–14:
- Using clean hands, apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free tattoo aftercare cream (e.g., Dr.Pickles, Hustle Butter).
- Do not over-apply; your skin needs to breathe.
- Repeat washing and applying cream 2–3 times daily until the tattoo is fully healed (usually 2–3 weeks).
What to Expect:
- Peeling and flaking are normal around days 3–7—don’t pick at it.
- Itching is common—pat, don’t scratch.
- The tattoo may look slightly dull or “milky” as it heals—this is normal.
METHOD 2: AFTERCARE WITH FIXOMULL WRAP
Day 1:
- (Right After Your Tattoo) Your tattoo is covered with a breathable Fixomull bandage.
- Leave it on for 5-6 days, unless irritation or excessive fluid buildup occurs.
Day 2–6:
- Remove the bandage gently under warm running water. Peel from the edges, not straight up.
- Wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
- After Removing the Second Skin keep the tattoo clean and moisturized with a light layer of aftercare cream (if dry).
- Avoid submerging the tattoo in water (no baths, pools, or saunas).
What to Expect
- The bandage may fill with plasma, ink, and lymph fluid—this is normal.
- The tattoo may feel tight or sticky after removal—continue washing gently.
- Some minor irritation or redness around the bandage edges is normal.
AVOID DURING HEALING
🚫 Scratching, picking, or peeling the tattoo
🚫 Direct sun exposure—wear loose clothing over it
🚫 Soaking in water (baths, pools, hot tubs, ocean)
🚫 Heavy sweating or excessive exercise for the first few days
LONG-TERM CARE
- Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen to prevent fading.
- Keep your skin moisturized to maintain vibrancy.
- Even after healing, avoid prolonged sun exposure.
If you have any concerns about redness, excessive swelling, or signs of infection, contact your artist or a healthcare professional.
📸 HEALED PHOTOS
I’d love to organise a healed photo once everything has settled! If you're happy to, send me a pic or drop by so we can get a great healed shot of your tattoo.