After your tattoo appointment - Derm Shield Bandage
Your artist will provide you with verbal aftercare instructions outlining how you should care for your new tattoo. Incase you forget or have any questions, please reference the basic care instructions below:
*If you notice your skin is itchy, swollen, red, or developing a rash around the Derm Shield, you may have an adhesive allergy and you should remove the bandage as soon as you notice the irritation. Taking Benadryl and ibuprofen can help with the irritation and swelling. Continue to take care of your tattoo as instructed without the Derm Shield.*
Derm Shield adhesive bandages are perfect for assisting the healing of your tattoo during the most crucial days of the whole healing process, the first 3-5 days. There may be a mixture of ink, blood, and plasma that collects under the bandage. This is normal and the bandage should not be removed unless the adhesive isn’t working as well due to the ink & plasma. We can switch out your Derm Shield for you the day after your appointment if needed!
After 3-5 days remove the Derm Shield bandage while running warm soapy water over the area. The shower is a great place to do this as long as the water is not hot. Water should be warm but not hot. Taking off the bandage before the recommended time frame can cause unnecessary irritation to your tattoo and could also cause ink loss.
Once the bandage is removed, some ink/scabbing may come with it, this is completely normal.
Wash your hands and then wash the tattoo with warm water and liquid antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel, never use a cloth towel since they carry bacteria. Let air dry the rest of the way.
Once the area is dry, apply a thin layer of unscented white hand lotion like Lubriderm, Curel, Eucerine, or Aquaphor as needed to help with dryness and itchiness, about 2-3 times/day. (Over moisturizing your tattoo can lead to skin irritation like small red bumps and ink loss).
Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning until tattoo is completely healed, at least 14-21 days.
Do not soak your tattoo in a tub or jacuzzi, do not go swimming or use a sauna while your new tattoo is healing (14-28 days depending on the level of shading/color done. Showers are fine).
DO NOT: rub, pick, or itch the treated area while it is healing. Picking scabs, itching, or rubbing can lead to loss of color and/or infection could occur.
Extreme sun and exposure over the years can and will fade your tattoo. This can be minimized by using a strong sunscreen, at least SP30 whenever you’re going to be in the sun.
Your tattoo should heal completely in 2 to 2 1/2 weeks depending on the amount of color saturation.
Please consult your artist directly about any questions or concerns involving your tattoo. There are no stupid questions, just the ones you ask your friends!
Enjoy your tattoo & apply skin care forever.
IMPORTANT TIPS TO REMEMBER:
Staying hydrated during every step of the tattoo process is the best thing you can do for your tattoo. Our skin needs water to be the healthiest that it can be, so make sure you’re drinking enough water before during and after your appointment.
Refrain from asking your friends questions about the healing process. They are not your tattoo artist, and will not give you accurate information. If you have a question or concern regarding your new piece, please give your artist a call and ask them directly in order to get the best information. We are trained, experienced and have your best interest in mind at all times.