TATTOO AFTERCARE

 

1.  No sooner than 2 hours, remove the covering gently and wash with warm water and mild antibacterial soap wash. Gently wipe with cotton wool, DO NOT SCRUB. The aim is to remove any ointment, ink and fluids. Do not re-cover.

 

2. Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen – do not use the spray as this may cause the skin to dry out. Gently rub in the cream so it is absorbed. Again, do not scrub or scratch.  Cream should be applied at least 3 times daily for the first week reducing to morning and evening in the second week – this is to stop your tattoo drying out, overly scabbing and cracking which could result in loss of ink and/or itching and discomfort. After this period, apply as needed to continue to healing process where necessary. You can apply cream more than directed if you feel the treated area is drying out more than expected, but always allow skin to ‘breath’ between applications and ensure there is no excess cream build up which may collect dirt, which could lead to infection and/or the healing process may be prolonged.

 

3. For the first night you can re-cover your tattoo with domestic cling film – be careful not to catch your new tattoo when securing in place. This is especially useful if a large design that may dry out or get caught on bedding overnight. Do this after applying your final layer of cream at night.

 

4. Stay out of harsh sunlight and tanning booths until your tattoo is healed, at least 14 days.

 

5. Do not soak in the bath, sauna or jacuzzi while your new tattoo is healing. Avoid swimming for at least 7 days and thereafter apply cream to the tattoo immediately after drying down until the tattoo is fully healed.

 

6. Do not rub, scratch or pick the treated area while it is healing. Loss of colour and/or infection could

occur. Any accidental cuts or scratches to your tattoo may result in loss of colour and/or infection – always clean any dirt or sediment from the affected area with an antibacterial soap wash, dry gently and apply your antiseptic healing cream.

 

7. Extreme sun and exposure over the years can and will fade your tattoo. It is recommended that all new tattoos, in the first 6 months at least, must be covered when in strong sunlight and/or use a high SPF sun tan lotion ie SPF25 or above if covering is not possible.

 

8. Your tattoo should heal in around 2 weeks. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort/bruising in the 2-3 days following your tattoo. Redness may occur immediately after your tattoo but should not last more than a few days depending on the scale, detail and position of your tattoo on the body.

 

9. Consult a doctor if any signs or symptoms develop such as the following: prolonged or increasing redness at site, green/yellow discharge (foul smelling) and/or fever.

 

10. Any further design work, colouring or covering up cannot be completed until your new tattoo is completely healed. We recommend at least 3 weeks between sessions to allow the body to heal and recover fully.

 

11. Due to the shaving of the skin area on and around your new tattoo, you may experience a mild shaving rash depending on the sensitivity of your skin. This is normal, should not affect your tattoo healing and will clear up within the first week. Keeping the affected area clean and using antibacterial soap wash and healing cream will help reduce any spots and/or infected hair follicles.

 

12. Should you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to contact us at: enquiries@bespokebodyart.com