Here is some information about caring for your tattoo :)

Wash at least twice a day, morning and evening, with antibacterial soap, drying with paper towels as bath towels or washcloths can carry bacteria. If you get dirty or sweaty during the day more washing may be needed. It’s essentially a fresh wound so you want it to stay as clean as possible but over washing can also dry out the area which is not great for healing either.

Keep moisturized with aquaphor, a&d or something similar as often as you can, as the tattoo heals//scabs you want to make sure it stays moisturized so the scabs don’t end up coming off too early as this can pull ink out and result in poor healing.

Do not swim or take a bath until the tattoo is fully healed, roughly two weeks. Showers are fine but you don’t want a fresh tattoo to be submerged for long periods, especially not in lakes//ponds//pools etc.

Super heavy exercise//saunaing is also not recommended as excessive sweating can push ink out of the skin.

Itching is normal and expected as the tattoo heals. It is important not to scratch the tattoo as this can cause scabs to be pulled off prematurely, potentially taking ink with it, resulting in a poorly healed tattoo. Try smacking//lightly slapping the area instead. 

If you are using Derm Shield//Second Skin//Saniderm:

Derm Shield is a flexible and breathable adhesive bandage that provides optimal conditions for gentle healing by eliminating scabbing, reducing risk of scarring and preventing exposure to bacteria, dirt and abrasion. It works by trapping in your skins natural healing fluids so the tattoo stays clean and hydrated and speeds up the healing process. It is waterproof but permeable enough to allow for the skin to breath//perspire.  

Leave on for minimum 24 hours and up to 3 days.

It is natural for a fresh tattoo to leak a little ink//plasma, but if you exercise or sweat excessively while wearing, the bandage may need to be removed sooner as the water will weaken the adhesion. Another layer of Derm shield can be applied if this is around 24 hours post tattoo. 

If the barrier is compromised, for example punctured, torn, or the seal around the edge peels away enough that the tattoo is no longer fully sealed, remove the bandage and continue with usual aftercare. 

Removing the bandage: Make sure your hands are clean. It can be helpful to remove the bandage in the shower or under warm running water. Gently pull the bandage back over itself, going very slowly and being careful not to yank too aggressively.  

Do not swim or take a bath with adhesive bandage on. 

If you think you have an infection seek medical attention immediately.

If you have any questions at all feel free to reach out!

Thank you for trusting me with your tattoo!

Love, 

   Meara // Mossspiglet