Please follow these instructions. If you have questions, just ask- there are no silly questions!
The length of time it takes for your tattoo to heal will depend on many factors including how you take care of it while it's healing. It is important to remember that your new tattoo is technically an open wound, so you will need to care for it to avoid infection.
- Leave your second skin on for the first 24 hours if you can. This allows your body some uninterrupted healing which will help avoid infection. You can leave it on for up to 5 days if you'd like, but keep an eye on how your skin is reacting to it. If you need to take it off in this period for some reason you should leave your tattoo uncovered.
- When you first remove your second skin or cling film, you must wash your hands first to reduce risk of bacteria transfer! Then you need to gently wash your tattoo with warm water and antibacterial soap (unscented, to avoid irritation). I always recommend to let it air dry, as any cloth or towel will be too rough and can transfer bacteria. Rough fabrics can also pull ink out of your skin which affects the way it looks when it heals. If the second skin is uncomfortable to peel off, do it under running water in the shower, it will help remove the adhesive.
- Wash your tattoo twice a day for the first week, using the same technique listed above. It takes time to heal and the risk of infection continues during the healing process.
- After your skin is clean and dry you should put a thin layer of unscented, non-greasy healing balm on the tattoo. You can use any official tattoo aftercare balm, or something gentle and light like Simple brand Hydrating Light Moisturiser or Palmer's Cocoa/Shea Butter. Do this until your skin stops peeling or flaking.
- It is important not to let your skin dry and crack when your tattoo is healing, but you can also go overboard and put too much cream on it. A thin layer a few times a day should be enough, but everyone is different. If you notice your skin is dry, apply more. Avoid added fragrances and chemicals- go natural!
- To keep the tattoo safe while sleeping, you should use clean sheets from the day you get your tattoo and wear loose and clean clothing. This again reduces the likeliness of infection and stops fabric from rubbing your skin, causing irritation and potentially pulling out ink. Especially helpful if you have pets that shed hairs, as these can get stuck in your scabs.
- It is also important not to soak your skin while healing, this includes taking a bath and swimming (in any type of water). It can be annoying to wait, but you really don't want to end up with an infection! Stick to showers and avoid having the stream of water hit your new tattoo directly.
- Avoid heavy exercise and sweating for the first 48 hours after a tattoo if possible, as this is another risk for infection and can even stretch out the open wounds in the skin. This includes activities where your skin might be in contact with other people's skin- just be cautious!
- Your skin will start to flake, peel and itch during the healing process. Don't pick or scratch at it! Picking at the scabs or loose skin can pull ink out and impact the final look. To combat itchiness ensure you keep your skin moist with the instructions above.
- Let your hair grow back (no shaving or using hair removal creams) until your tattoo is fully healed, a minimum of one week, depending on size.
- Avoid exposing your fresh tattoo to direct sunlight for the first 6 weeks. It is recommended to use sun cream with a high SPF after this time when you're outside.
Your care and attention to your new tattoo during the healing process has a direct impact on how well it heals and how it will look in the long run.
Tattoos evolve over time as skin ages, but if you take care of your skin it'll look it's best! I care as much as you do about your new art so if you have any questions or need a touch up, send me a message!
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Thank you for your trust!
Pinkboy / Elliot
@pinkboy.tattoo