Aftercare
Depending on the type of bandage used, your aftercare instructions will vary slightly:
Plastic Wrap or Soaker Pad Bandage:
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Remove bandage 3 - 4 hours after application.
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Always wash hands before removing the bandage.
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Upon removing the bandage, do so in a clean environment.
Removing in the shower is recommended. -
With the flat of your palm, gently massage the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented soap.
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Rinse & repeat last step until the tattoo no longer feels slimy.
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This process can be painful, so be gentle and patient during this procedure.
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Allow the tattoo to air-dry or pat with fresh clean towel.
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Moisturize with a recommended unscented lotion or ointment, such as Aquaphore.
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With clean hands, apply a very thin layer of moisturizer at least once a day. After showering is recommended.
Depending how saturated your tattoo is, you may need to wash your tattoo a few more times in the first few days. If you notice any weeping of plasma or fluids from your tattoo following your initial wash, repeat the steps above to remove the excess plasma.
Stick-On Transparent Bandage:
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Leave on for 3 to 7 days.*
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Always wash hands before removing the bandage.
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Upon removing the bandage, do so in a clean environment. In the shower recommended.
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With the flat of your palms, gently massage the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap.
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Wash until it no longer feels slick or slimy.
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Allow the tattoo to air-dry or pat with fresh clean towel.
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Moisturize with a recommended unscented lotion or ointment, such as Aquaphore.
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With clean hands, apply a very thin layer of moisturizer at least once a day. After showering is recommended.
*If there is a build up of fluid inside the bandage, remove as soon as you are able to follow these aftercare steps.
*If the bandage has been compromised in any way, exposing your tattoo underneath, remove the bandage as soon as you are able to follow the next steps.
In the following weeks after your appointment:
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Give your tattoo at the very least least 2 weeks to heal.
Any new skin growth may still be sensitive for the following month. -
Do not soak your tattoo for at least 2 weeks. No swimming, baths, or saunas.
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Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight.
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Do not apply sunscreen to your fresh tattoo.
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Do not exfoliate or shave the tattooed area for at least a month.
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In the first week especially, if your tattoo comes in contact with excess sweat, animals or dirt, carefully wash the tattoo as soon as you are able to.
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Make sure your bedding and clothing are clean.
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Avoid tight clothing or clothing made from animals, such as wool.
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Keep your pets away from your fresh tattoo.
Animals carry a variety of bacteria that can easily cause your tattoo
to become infected. -
Contact your artist directly if any concerns come up!
Product Recommendations:
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Aquaphor, in tube.
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Bactine Antibacterial Spray (for itchiness, redness, tenderness)
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Dr. Bronners liquid soap (unscented)
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Cold compress or Advil for swelling.
All products should be available at your local pharmacies.
Areas That Need Extra Care
Joints:
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Be mindful of limiting bending the area excessively.
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Extra moisturizing may be required to accommodate the amount the skin must stretch in these areas.
Torso:
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Be mindful of your movements that may cause excessive stretching of the the skin.
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Be sure to not wear any clothing, accessories or bags that will rub against the tattooed area.
Lower Limbs (Calves Especially):
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Due to circulation and pressure from muscles against the skin, leg tattoos can take longer to heal.
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Make sure to limit your activities that engage your leg muscles.
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Rest and elevate your legs above your heart when its possible.
Hands:
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Careful when washing your hands during the first two weeks.
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Do not wear any gloves that will cause your hands to sweat.
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Stay away from most activities that cause hands to prune.
Feet:
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Do not wear any footwear that will rub against the tattoo.
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Avoid socks or shoes that will cause your feet to sweat.
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Be barefoot as often as you can.
Follow Teddy's