Aftercare
Derm Shield Aftercare
Your artist will apply derm shield to your tattoo before you leave the shop (unless you have an allergy or your tattoo is in a spot where it will not adhere)
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Leave this on for 24 hours. If after the first 24 hours it is still well-adhered without an excess of fluid under the bandage you may leave it on for a total of 3-5 days. If after 24 hours the original bandage is NOT still well-adhered, or if a large amount of fluid has accumulated underneath, you should remove it and replace with a fresh piece of derm shield (or you can choose to remove it and continue healing with traditional healing methods). Leave this new bandage on for 3-5 more days.
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derm shield is shower safe, just make sure water does not get inside of the bandage or it will have to be removed. Derm shield is NOT safe for swimming or bathing.
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If at any time the bandage peels back, exposing the tattoo, or excess fluid begins to leak from the bandage, it must be removed, cleaned, and either replaced or continue healing with traditional healing methods.
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If at any time you suspect you may be having an allergic reaction to the derm shield it should be removed and continue with traditional healing methods.
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Video on How to apply derm shield (also called saniderm/tegaderm/transparent medical dressing)
Traditional Aftercare
Thoroughly clean the tattoo with an unscented antibacterial soap and warm water then let the tattoo air dry or pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
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Once the tattoo is completely dry, apply a very THIN layer of ointment. You want just enough to moisten the tattoo, but not so much that it cannot breathe. We do not recommend petroleum based ointments like aquaphor or a&D ointment as they can cause complications during the healing process.
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Wash with antibacterial soap once in the morning and once at night (or more if you get the tattooed area dirty), drying and applying ointment after each wash. Continue washing with antibacterial soap until the tattoo completely heals over and begins to flake (usually 4-7 days after your appointment).
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After the tattoo begins to flake you may continue moisturizing with ointment or you may switch to any unscented lotion.
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Your tattoo should be healed within 2-4 weeks, during this time limit sun exposure and avoid submerging your tattoo.