LOOKING AFTER A FRESH TATTOO
Whether you're getting tattooed for the first time or you have been tattooed a dozen times before, it's always good to be fully aware of what to expect during the healing process.
It’s very important to stick to the guidelines as closely as possible. If you follow all the steps listed below, you’re sure to come out with a beautifully healed tattoo!
TATTOO AFTERCARE
Within 2 hours of leaving the studio:
• Remove dressing (if present)
• With clean hands gently wash the area with warm (not hot!) water and Dr Bronner’s soap, this may be easier to do whilst in the shower
• Allow the area to air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel (don't rub)
• Once fully dry, apply a thin layer of Palmer's cocoa butter moisturiser
• Apply moisturiser sparingly, do not re-cover or bandage
Days 1-2:
• Wash the tattoo gently for 2 days, morning and night
• Apply moisturiser after each wash or when the area is feeling dry
Days 2-14:
• Continue to moisturise the tattoo for at least 14 days or until it is fully healed
• As the tattoo heals it may peel or scab, NEVER pick or peel the tattooed skin!
• If you experience itching during this time do not scratch. You can lightly pat the area but be careful not to dislodge any scabs.
THINGS TO AVOID
• DO NOT bandage or cover the tattoo, the skin needs to breath to heal properly
• DO NOT touch or let anyone else touch the tattoo with unwashed hands
• DO NOT itch! The best way to deal with itching is to apply moisturiser and stay hydrated!
• DO NOT peel skin or pick scabs
• DO NOT wear tight or restrictive clothing
• DO NOT soak the tattoo, go swimming, or have prolonged/extremely hot showers
• DO NOT use oil based moisturisers (including Vaseline) or perfumed soap on the area whilst healing
• DO NOT expose the tattoo to any water you cannot control the quality of, this includes swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes and the ocean
• DO NOT use a sauna or sunbed
• AVOID letting healing tattoo become too dry - apply moisturiser when required
• AVOID excess sweating, physical activity or contact sports
• AVOID dirt, grease, oil, chemicals, pets, etc.
Once the tattoo is fully healed:
• Always use minimum 30SPF sun cream or cover tattooed areas in the sunlight, this will prevent fading and UV damage
• Continue to moisturise often for a more vibrant looking tattoo
• For a brighter looking tattoo use Palmer’s body oil to highlight and hydrate the skin
If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me! Always be safe and look after your skin.
KEEP CLEAN
A fresh tattoo is an open wound. Do not touch it or let anyone else do so.
Sleep in clean bedsheets and avoid pet hair.
STAY HYDRATED
Do your best to remain hydrated and preventing your skin from drying up.
Keep moisturiser to hand.
WASHING
Short showers are recommended until your skin has fully healed.
Avoid prolonged exposure to steam and hot water.
Avoid getting harsh soaps on the area.
CLOTHING
Wear clean loose-fitting clothing during the healing process.
Avoid letting the tattoo get suffocated or restricted.
Aftercare kits are available at the studio containing everything you'll need for a perfectly healed tattoo!