Congratulations
on your new tattoo!
You will be using one of two methods to heal your tattoo: Dr Pickles, or Derm Shield.
Derm Shield Method
If we applied a protective film to your tattoo before you left the studio, this information will help you with continued care. You should have taken home another piece with you, and a tube of Dr Pickles for later.
After approx. 24 hours after your appointment, take a shower and pull off the film under the warm water. Wash the tattoo gently with warm water and non-scented soap.
In these first 24 hours, you may notice a build up of blood and liquid between the film and your skin. THIS IS NORMAL!
It will most likely leak out the sides, so keep some tissues handy, and sleep with a towel or protective cover in bed to avoid stains.
After removing the first protective derm shield, allow the tattoo to completely air dry without anything touching or getting onto the skin. Once dry, you can apply the second piece of Derm Shield we provided you with. You will need someone to help you apply it if possible. (Note: if you do not have another piece, follow the Balm/Ointment instructions from this point on.)
Now, this second piece of film can remain on for 4-6 days. Once again, any build up of fluid underneath is normal, so don’t stress!
Make sure to keep the area clean, even with the Derm Shield, and do NOT scratch the tattoo underneath. When you’re finally ready to remove the Derm Shield, follow the same instructions as you did when removing the first piece.
Now you can begin applying Balm/Ointment to finish the healing process! Read the next section for instructions.
Balm/Ointment Method
Remove the cling wrap covering your tattoo within 1 to 2 hours. Gently clean your fresh tattoo with a mild unscented soap and warm water in a sanitary environment. Only use your clean hands to do this!
Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel, and then allow it to completely air dry before applying ointment.
Apply a thin layer of your aftercare lubricant regularly (3-5 times) throughout the day after washing your tattoo. Use just enough ointment to keep it moist, making the tattoo slightly shiny. Do NOT over moisturise tattoo! Only use the balm in small amounts as needed. We highly recommend using products made for tattoo aftercare such as Dr Pickles.
Frequency of cleaning depends on your lifestyle. Use your best judgement, but don't overdo it. If you are unsure, or have aftercare product questions, please contact your artist and DO NOT take the advice of friends or other shops over your artist’s advice.
You should continue to use the tattoo aftercare for the entire time your tattoo is healing. After 3-5 days your tattoo will begin to feel and flakes like a sunburn. It may appear like the colour is coming off. This is normal!
The area will become dry and itchy. DO NOT scratch it; continue to apply the tattoo aftercare until the tattoo no longer flakes.
Continue applying aftercare until the entire area is healed, which should be approx. 2 weeks.
General Care Instructions
Yes, you can and should shower with a new tattoo! It's OK to get your tattoo wet, just don't soak or submerge it in a bath or hot tub for 2-3 weeks, this can cause serious damage. NO SWIMMING for 3 weeks at least!
Do NOT expose your tattoo to the sun during the healing process. Once your tattoo is completely healed, we highly recommend using a high number SPF sunblock (50+SPF preferred) on your tattoo to prevent sun damage, as this may fade your tattoo. Do NOT let other people poke, bump, or touch your tattoo during the healing phase. Anytime you touch your tattoo, ensure your hands are clean!
If you are in a clean environment, allow your tattoo to be open and exposed to the air. Allowing the tattoo to breath will help with healing. It is beneficial to wear clean, loose fitting clothing over your tattoo to allow it to breath. Avoid suffocating your tattoo with tight clothing. To reduce the risk of infection, avoid exposure to pets and dusty or dirty areas.
If your tattoo becomes infected, it will continue to be sore many days after, form a nasty scab and/or crack and blister. It will also have a bright red "halo" around the edges of the tattooed area. If infection is suspected, contact your artist to confirm and see your GP. A dose of antibiotics will probably be required. Healing will generally be compromised and the tattoo will need to be touched up. SImply get in contact with your artist to organise a session to bring your tattoo back to tip-top shape!
Once you leave the shop, the proper care and healing of your tattoo is your responsibility. With these instructions, and your own common sense, your tattoo will heal in the next 2-3 weeks. Enjoy your tattoo, and make sure to take care of it, it’s forever! And please, don’t hesitate to contact your artist with any questions.
For more information on Dr Pickles, please see their website https://drpickles.com