TATTOO AFTER-CARE PROCESS
Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy. Follow these detailed steps to ensure the best results:
1. Removal of Bandages (24 Hours After Your Appointment): Your artist will have covered your tattoo with Sani-derm immediately after your session. Leave this bandage on for 24-48 hours to protect your tattoo from outside contaminants.
2. Gentle Washing: Its time to uncover your tattoo. Use unscented Dial antibacterial soap and lukewarm water to gently wash the tattooed area.
3. Pat Dry: Carefully pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Do not rub back and forth, as this can irritate the skin.
4. Moisturize: Apply a very thin layer of a moisturizer or a fragrance-free balm. Ensure there's no excessive buildup of ointment on your tattoo; a thin, even layer is all you need.
5. Regular Cleaning and Moisturizing: You should continue to wash your tattoo 2 to 3 times a day using the same gentle technique mentioned above. Reapply moisturizer as needed to keep the skin hydrated throughout the healing process.
6. No Scab Picking: Resist the temptation to pick at any scabs that may form. Picking scabs can damage the tattooed area, cause bleeding, and pull ink out of your skin, potentially leading to faded or patchy results.
7. Avoid Fragranced Products: Refrain from using body wash, lotions, or shampoos with fragrances in the tattooed area, as these can irritate your skin.
8. No Swimming or Hot Tubs: Avoid immersing your tattoo in water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water, for at least 2 weeks. Prolonged exposure to water can soften the tattoo and hinder the healing process.
9. Sun Protection: Shield your tattoo from direct sunlight during the healing process. After your tattoo has fully healed, it's essential to apply sunscreen with a high SPF when spending extended periods in direct sunlight. This will help preserve the tattoo's color and prevent fading. Do not apply sunscreen to a tattoo that has not fully healed.
10. Wear Loose Clothing: While your tattoo is healing, opt for loose-fitting clothing to prevent any friction or rubbing that might disturb scabs or cause discomfort.
Remember, every person's skin and tattoo healing process can vary, so it's essential to monitor your tattoo's progress and follow these guidelines diligently. If you have any concerns or notice any signs of infection, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional promptly.
By following these aftercare instructions, you'll help ensure that your tattoo heals beautifully, preserving its vibrant colors and intricate details for years to come. Enjoy your new ink!
PIERCING AFTER-CARE
We value your safety and the longevity of your piercing. Our aftercare recommendations are based on years of experience, client feedback, advice from industry professionals, and the standards set by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP). Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns. In the event of a severe medical issue, consult a physician.
DOs:
- Hands Off: Resist the urge to touch your piercing. The outdated practice of rotating your jewelry introduces harmful germs and bacteria. Touching your piercing is a leading cause of infection.
- Clean Hands: Always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before cleaning your piercing. Keeping your hands clean is crucial to avoid introducing contaminants.
- Saline Solution: Clean your piercing three times a day with a saline solution. This helps maintain cleanliness and promotes healing.
- Healing Time: The average healing time for a new piercing is approximately 1-3 months, but this can vary. Listen to your body and don't rush the healing process.
- Consult Us: If you have questions about your piercing's healing progress, please visit us or give us a call. We're here to help.
- Retain Jewelry: Do not remove your jewelry, especially with new piercings. Your body may begin to close the hole immediately. If removal is necessary (e.g., for a medical procedure or work-related activity), contact us for advice and options, including retainers.
- Swelling Consideration: Some initial jewelry may be slightly larger to accommodate swelling. When you're ready to change jewelry, we offer sterilized options and can assist with insertion.
- Avoid Irritants: Be cautious of contact with potential irritants like phones, pillows, hair, cosmetics, combs, brushes, towels, pet hair, and change your sheets and pillowcases regularly.
DO NOTs:
- Swimming Hazards: Avoid pools, hot tubs, lakes, beaches, etc., as they often contain bacteria or chemicals. If you choose to swim, clean your piercing afterward. Use a watertight patch to protect your piercing when possible.
- Cleaning Agents: Refrain from using harsh cleaning agents such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, listerine, glyoxide, bactine, iodine, neosporin, bacitracin, dial soap, or other soaps. These can be detrimental to a new piercing.
- Excessive Sun: Protect your piercing from excessive sun exposure, sand, oil, lotion, and other potential irritants.
Your overall health plays a crucial role in the healing process. Prioritize a balanced diet, adequate sleep, hydration, a daily multivitamin, exercise, and proper piercing care to ensure a smooth and successful healing journey.
For any questions or concerns, please visit Touch of Grey or call (980) 643-4210. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.