Prep & Aftercare

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE RULES FOR THE BEST RESULTS! HOW YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR FRESH TATTOO GREATLY AFFECTS THE HEALED OUTCOME.

Proper care following ALL tattoo procedures is necessary to achieve the best results. Keep in mind that in many cases, some unevenness of color is to be expected. This is the purpose of the touch-ups visit (occasionally, client may need more than two sessions due to stubborn skin, improper aftercare, etc.) Please review the following directions and refer to them as necessary. You may experience some tissue irritation. If during your healing process you have ANY questions or concerns please contact Cheryl at 952 522- 4465. If you experience any infection, please consult a health care professional.

TATTOO AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

To ensure that your new tattoo heals properly, please read and complete the following instructions listed below. After receiving your new tattoo, it is also important to avoid excessive sweating (for five days), swimming, soaking, hot tubs or sun-bathing (for two weeks). If you do find yourself to be in the sun, try to keep your tattoo from being exposed to the sun and make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen.

1. Wait 8-10 hours before removing the Steristrip. Your tattoo may ooze, this is a normal part of the healing process. The Steristrip is there to keep airborne bacteria and any other contaminants in the environment from invading your wound.

2. Once the Steristrip is ready to be removed, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry hands well, then gently take a corner of the Steristrip and slowly pull it off the tattooed area.

3. With a clean washcloth, take lukewarm water and the Dial antibacterial soap (make soap suds with hands and then rub on the washcloth) and then gently tap on the tattooed area. NO RUBBING. Repeat with just lukewarm water to get some of the soap off.

4. Using a clean washcloth or clean paper towel, gently pat the area dry. Make sure that both the tattoo and surrounding inch of skin is completely dry.

5. Once dry, put the second Steristrip over the tattoo. Try to avoid any air pockets in the strip as this will help it stay on longer. This Steristrip should begin to fall off on its own after a week or two. You can take it off on your own after 5-7 days or can wait for it to fall off on its own.

6. Once your Steristrip does come off, repeat steps 3 & 4 over the course of 10-14 days (or longer if you so choose). You should wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day.

7. Scabs may form or skin may peel a bit, DO NOT PICK or rub at it. Remember that tattoos are an open wound. Irritating the skin will not help in your tattoo healing process.

8. In addition to washing your tattoo with steps 3 & 4, you will apply a thin layer of ointment (we recommend Aquaphor) to your tattoo with clean hands. This will help with hydrating and speeding up the healing process as well as making you more comfortable. It is recommended to apply a thin layer of Aquaphor up to 4 times a day.

9. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection, including but not limited to, redness, swelling, tenderness of the procedure site, red streaks going from the procedure site towards the heart, elevated body temperature, or purulent draining from the procedure site. Be sure and seek professional medical attention if signs and symptoms of infection occur.

Remember to keep your tattoo safe and enjoy it!