WHAT TO EXPECT FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURE

• IMMEDIATELY AFTER:  You will experience some soreness, swelling, irritation, and redness.  If you are uncomfortable, OTC ibuprofen can help with these symptoms.
• 2-3 DAYS: Swelling and irritation should decrease, it should feel like a mild sunburn.
• 7-10 DAYS: The tattoo will start to peel and flake similar to a serious sunburn or minor scab.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE BANDAGE APPLIED TO YOUR TATTOO

Saniderm (or Tegaderm) is a very thin, transparent, flexible film used to protect new tattoos against fluids, friction, bacteria, and viruses. Unlike plastic films, Saniderm is breathable which allows moisture vapor and oxygen exchange while providing a moist wound environment for enhanced healing. When Saniderm is applied immediately after the tattoo session, the tattoo is protected from dirt and germs. Saniderm can also reduce scabbing, reduce pain, and maintain ink integrity.

SUGGESTED CARE

Keep the bandage on for 3 days.  The bandage is waterproof, so it is ok to shower with it on.  Though it is waterproof, prolonged exposure to water should be avoided as it can compromise the adhesion of the bandage.  After 3 days, remove the bandage pulling from top to bottom.  Wash with soap and warm water, then pat dry with a clean paper towel.  Remember to always wash your hands before and after touching your new tattoo.  Apply a small amount of lotion whenever your tattoo feels dry or itchy.  Continue using lotion for the next few weeks or until your skin returns to normal.

RESTRICTIONS

• NO SOAKING; including and not limited to swimming pools, lakes, hot tubs, salt water, bubble baths, etc. for at least two weeks or until the skin returns to normal.
• NO SCRATCHING OR PICKING dry scabs that form over your healing tattoo.  Doing so may result in loss of pigment and/or scarring on your tattoo.
• Avoid activities that may result in contamination with potentially infectious materials such as gardening or contact with animals.
• If you work out or have a job that gets you SWEATY or DIRTY, be sure to clean as soon as possible.
• Stay out of direct SUNLIGHT for two weeks.  No sunbathing or tanning.  Always use sunblock whenever you’re in the sun after your tattoo has healed.
• If you use TANNING BEDS, always cover your tattoo.

 POSSIBLE MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS

Because it requires breaking the skin barrier, tattooing may carry health risks, including infection and allergic reactions. If you see any signs or symptoms of infection or allergic reaction after 2-3 days including but not limited to: redness, swelling, tenderness of the tattoo, red streaks going from the tattoo toward the heart elevated body temperature, or purulent draining from the tattoo, please seek medical attention.

We have done everything possible to ensure that your tattoo has been done with the utmost care possible.  Now it is your turn – FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call us at (714) 693-5536.