aftercare instructions

Healing Ointment

Unscented Lotion

Unscented Anti-bacterial Soap

Please review these easy steps to ensure your tattoo heals optimally:

Leave your Recovery Derm Shield bandage on for 2-4 days. You may notice a small amount of blood build up, ink seepage, smudging, and sweat build up, all of which to be expected during this time. Do not leave the bandage on for more than 4 days.
Prior to removing your bandage dressing, ensure you have the following items:
1. A fragrance-free antibacterial soap (Dial) and fragrance-free lotion (LubriDerm or Aveeno), a healing ointment (Aquaphor).
Remove bandage under warm water and slowly pull the corner of the bandage down towards the floor to separate from the skin.
Next, use the antibacterial soap and water to clean the tattoo. The area may feel “slimy” due to the build up of ink, blood, plasma, and sweat due to the healing process.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel and ensure the area is completely dry.
Apply a thin layer of ointment (Aquaphor) onto the tattoo. You will do this 2 times a day, after cleaning the tattoo, for the first two days after removing the bandage.
As the tattoo begins to get drier and flakey, you will stop applying the ointment and switch to fragrance-free lotion (LubriDerm or Aveeno) and apply a generous amount at least 2 times a day. Applying the lotion during this phase of the healing process is important, preventing it from feeling itchy or scabs from falling off prematurely. Ensuring your healing tattoo is properly moisturized for the best results.
Avoid touching your tattoo with unclean hands, and always wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap before touching it and applying ointment or lotion.
Continue this process for at least 14 days. During these 14 days, it is highly important that you avoid the following:
NO sunbathing
NO water immersion (swimming in pools, jacuzzis, baths, lakes, rivers, etc.)
NO self-tanning, laser treatments, waxing, or exfoliating
After your tattoo has completely healed, which is typically after around 4-6 weeks, consider regularly applying SPF sunscreen and lotion onto the tattoo at least once a day to maintain the highest quality of your tattoo.
Potential Issues to Watch For:
Infection: If the tattoo becomes excessively red, swollen, or develops pus, it could be a sign of infection. This is rare but important to monitor. If you suspect an infection, contact a healthcare provider.
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals might have an allergic reaction to certain pigments, especially reds and yellows. If a rash or bumps appear, it’s best to consult a professional.

17. What to do if Issues Worsen:

Assess the Situation and watch for any of the initial symptoms of infection listed below.

Initial Symptoms of Infection:

Increased redness or swelling that doesn't subside after a few days.
Warmth or heat coming from the tattooed area.
Pus or fluid oozing from the tattoo.
Intense pain or throbbing.
Fever or chills (which can indicate a systemic infection).
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, the tattoo is likely infected.

18. Advise Immediate Medical Attention

Refer to a Doctor: If you notice any signs of infection (especially if there's pus, fever, or severe pain), see a healthcare professional immediately. A doctor can prescribe the right antibiotics (oral or topical) to treat the infection.
Do Not Try to Treat It Yourself: It's important that the infection be diagnosed and treated by a professional. Infections can escalate quickly if not treated properly.

19. What to Do in the Meantime

Clean Gently: If you are not yet able to see a doctor, clean the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and an unscented, mild antibacterial soap. This should be done twice a day to remove any excess pus or debris. You should avoid scrubbing or using rough materials (e.g., washcloths).
Avoid Ointments or Creams: Don’t use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments (like Neosporin) unless specifically recommended by the doctor, as they can sometimes cause reactions in healing tattoos.
Keep It Dry and Protected: After cleaning, the tattoo should be left to air dry, and they should apply a clean, non-stick bandage if necessary. The goal is to protect it from dirt, bacteria, and friction.
No Picking or Scratching: Advise them not to pick at any scabs or attempt to drain the wound, as this can worsen the infection
20. Signs the Infection May Be Worsening
Spread of Redness: If the redness begins to spread significantly beyond the tattooed area or if the swelling worsens, this could be a sign that the infection is becoming more severe or is spreading.
Severe Pain or Fever: If the area becomes increasingly painful or the client develops a fever, it's an indication that the infection may be systemic and could require urgent medical treatment (e.g., IV antibiotics).
21. Avoidance of Potentially Harmful Actions
Do Not Squeeze or Pop Pimples or Blisters: If the tattoo develops pustules or blisters, you might feel the urge to pop them, but doing so can exacerbate the infection and spread bacteria.
Avoid Soaking the Tattoo: Infected tattoos should not be submerged in water (no baths, pools, or hot tubs). Showering is okay, but the tattoo should be kept dry as much as possible.