Aftercare Instructions

Congratulations on your new tattoo!

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure proper healing and longevity of your tattoo. Please follow these instructions carefully to promote healing and maintain the quality of your tattoo.

Initial 48 Hours (Using Second Skin Covering):

1. Leave the second skin wrap on your tattoo for at least 24 hours, preferably for 48 hours. This protective barrier helps prevent bacteria from entering the tattooed area while it is most vulnerable.
2. After removing the second skin covering by stretching it (command hook method), wash the area with warm water and a gentle soap. Always use a light touch when washing your new tattoo.
3. Gently pat it dry with a clean, disposable paper towel. Do not rub or scrub the tattoo.
4. Apply a small amount of fragrance-free balm, such as Lucas Pawpaw, or as recommended by your tattoo artist. Make sure to use a clean fingertip to avoid introducing bacteria. You want a thin layer, it should not feel thick on the tattoo or appear gunky.

Daily Care (Up to Two Weeks):

1. Wash your tattoo gently with water and a gentle soap. Use clean hands and avoid using excessive pressure. Rinse and pat dry. After the first few days you can go back to using a clean towel, but continue to pat dry.
2. Continue to apply a very thin layer of balm to your tattoo twice daily, or as required (quick check at meals!). You may need to apply 2-3 times a day if based in the Wanaka/ Queenstown lakes/Central Otago region as it is particularly dry down here!
3. Avoid soaking in bathtubs, hot tubs, or swimming pools until the tattoo is fully healed. Additionally, avoid prolonged direct sunlight while healing. These things can cause fading, damage to your tattoo and increase the risk of infection. If you are in the sun, loosely cover the tattooed area
4. Avoid picking, scratching, or peeling the tattooed area. Let any scabs or flakes fall off naturally. Picking can lead to scarring or ink loss.
5. Wear loose, clean clothing over your tattoo during the healing process to prevent irritation or prematurely removing any scabbing.
6. Do not use any products on your tattoo that contain alcohol, fragrances, dyes, or exfoliants, as they can irritate the healing skin.
7. If you notice any signs of infection (severe redness, swelling, pus, excessive pain, or fever), consult a medical professional immediately.

Once your tattoo is healed (~ 2 weeks), remember to apply sunscreen to ensure the longevity of your tattoo! This is particularly important for the first month after the tattoo has healed.

Remember, everyone’s healing process is unique, and it may take longer or shorter for your tattoo to fully heal. If you have any concerns or questions during the healing period, don’t hesitate to contact your tattoo artist.

Enjoy your beautiful tattoo, and take pride in wearing your new artwork