Aftercare. Tattoo

The tattoo will ooze (lymph) and this is a sign that healing is taking place. I have learned that the best way to take care of your tattoo is to cover the tattoo with bandage straight away for the first 2 - 4 hours. The scab is caused by the lymph drying out. The lymph has great healing properties while it is still moist. So you must wash the tattoo with warm water using a clean soft paper roll. Lightly spread a cream Bepanthen plus, Fucidin or Preparation H ointment(not GEL!) over the tattoo. Do not pick any scab, do not soak your tattoo in water for the first two weeks. You can use shower for few minutes, but not bath, lakes and seas! Stay out of the sun and sunbed until the tattoo is completely healed i.e. 2 to 3 weeks because the new tattoo will burn very fast. After your tattoo is healed you should always put a sunscreen on your tattoo when going in the sun because the sun fades the colours away. If you follow these instructions you would not have any problems with your tattoo.
The care given to your tattoo during the first several days of its life is crucial!

SUMMARY:

Aftercare:
1. Leave the bandage on your tattoo for 2 - 4 hours.
2. Wash your hands prior to removing bandage. Immediately wash tattoo with warm water and soap. Repeat until tattoo is no longer slimy or glazed.
3. Allow tattoo to air for at least 10 minutes.
4. Apply a very light film of ointment.
5. Repeat the cleaning procedure 3 - 4 times per day. Remember to use freshly washed hands to clean the tattoo and re-apply ointment.
6. Wear loose clothing that can allow your healing tattoo to breathe.

DO NOT:
- do not re-bandage tattoo
- do not apply vaseline or petroleum jelly
- do not apply alcohol
- do not scrub or scratch tattoo. This will cause damage to the design. If it itches, apply more lotion or cream
- do not expose to direct sunlight for at least two weeks
- do not swim in lakes or seas, soak in sauna, steam, or bath for at least one weak (short showering is OK)
- do not do hard physical work or training. Profuse sweating has the same effect on new tattoos as soaking in water.

If you have any questions concerning your new tattoo, please call me. HAPPY HEALING!!!!