TATTOO AFTERCARE

Aftercare instructions vary depending on the artist, tattooing style, regional humidity and tap water hardness, so only follow these tattoo aftercare instructions if have been tattooed by Megan and she has instructed you to do so. :)

Taking proper care of your tattoo during the healing process is essential to ensuring your tattoo heals well and looks its best.

> If using a plastic wrap bandage, remove after 3-5 hours. Using clean hands, gently remove the tape and plastic.

> If using an adhesive bandage, remove after 12-24 hours (12 hours for colour tattoos, 24 hours for black + grey tattoos). This type of bandage is breathable and waterproof, so you may shower with it on (do not submerge in water though). Place the bandaged area under warm, running water and gently pull the bandage back from the outside edges inwards. Do not pull too quickly, or you may separate the adhesive layer from the bandage and cause a sticky residue on your skin. If you notice any irritation from the adhesive bandage, remove immediately and wash the area.

> After rinsing the soap off your tattoo, gently pat the area dry with a clean piece of paper towel. We do not recommend using reusable towels on the tattoo area, as they can harbour bacteria. You may resume using cloth towels once your tattoo is fully healed.

> Wait at least 24 hours after your tattoo session before applying cream. Allow your tattoo to air dry completely before applying a small amount of cream. Gently rub the cream into the skin, ensuring there is no excess residue - as too much cream can cause thick scabs that prolong healing and compromise the quality of the healed result. We recommend using an all natural tattoo butter (like Battle Royale) or a hypoallergenic moisturiser (like Sorbelene or Lubriderm). If the tattoo is in an area that gets high exposure to dirt or bacteria (from work, pets, or young children) or if there is acne near the tattoo, we recommend an antiseptic cream like Bepanthen to reduce the risk of infection.

> Wash + dry + moisturise your tattoo 1 - 3 times per day during the healing process. Wash it more often if you work in a dirty environment or get sweaty. Always wash your hands before touching your healing tattoo or applying cream, and avoid having other people or pets touching your tattoo until it is fully healed.

> Avoid excessive exercise for at least a few days after your tattoo session and avoid touching your tattoo against gym equipment and mats. Make sure to clean your tattoo immediately after any sweaty exercise.

> Keep showers short, and do not submerge your tattoo during the healing process. This means no baths, swimming, ocean, hot tubs, saunas, etc.

> Avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo during the healing process and for the first few months of getting the tattoo, as it can significantly fade the inks in your tattoo during this delicate time. We recommend applying a high SPF sunblock to help protect your tattoo from fading once it is fully healed. Do not apply sunblock to a tattoo that is still healing.

> In a few days, your tattoo will start to get itchy and the top layer of skin will start to flake off. Do not scratch or pick a your tattoo or try to pull the scabs/flakes off, as this may cause the ink to come out or result in scarring.

> Avoid shaving the area around your tattoo until it is fully healed. If you are experiencing ingrown hairs in the tattoo area, you can gently exfoliate the skin to reduce them. If you happen to get many ingrown hairs (this happens to some skin types), you can apply Bump Eraiser Triple Action Lotion to the area (only once the tattoo is fully healed) to speed up the healing of the ingrown hairs.

> It is normal for your tattoo to seep ink, blood, and plasma during the first 24 - 48 hours. There is no need to rebandage your tattoo. It is important to wear clean, breathable clothing and use clean bedding during the healing period to help keep your tattoo free of bacteria.

> Healing will take between 1 - 4 weeks. This will vary depending on tattoo style, colour, placement, skin type, immune system, and how well you take care of your tattoo.

> Any touch ups required due to not adhering to the aftercare instructions will be at the expense of the client.

If you have any questions or concerns about the healing of your tattoo, feel free to contact Megan. :)