Traditional aftercare:
DO:
Leave your bandage on for at least 2-3 hours.
When ready, remove bandage under warm running water and clean with fragrance-free liquid hand soap.
Pat dry with soft, clean paper towel. Avoid bath or hand towels.
The first night, your tattoo will continue to expel small amounts of plasma and ink so you may wish to wrap it with plastic wrap or protect your sheets with old (clean) towels or sheets you are willing to stain.
Wash again in the morning using same method as above.
Once it starts to feel dry, wash your hands and apply a very light amount (typically just a couple drops) of fragrance-free lotion (Curel, Lubriderm, Aveeno, etc.) just a few times per day, as needed. Alternatively, an extremely light layer of Aquaphor may be applied but only once for the entire day. Less is always more! These are only meant to prevent excessive drying out and are not actively aiding the healing process.
Wash once or twice per day, as needed. Typical healing time is 1-2 weeks, but lotion can be continued as needed.
DO NOT!
Avoid picking or scratching. Always ensure hands are clean when touching the tattoo.
No swimming or soaking in water while healing (typically 1-2 weeks). When cleaning, showers or running water only.
Avoid excessive sun exposure. Shade or soft clean clothes can help protect while healing. Once healed, always protect your investment (and your skin) with sunscreen to avoid excessive fading and blurring.
Other peoples’ sweat can pose a risk of infection. This refers to any shared exercise equipment or places such as gyms, bouldering centers, saunas, yoga studios, martial arts studios, etc. Your own sweat is ok, just wash immediately after.
Wear clothes that is soft, clean, and comfortable. Rough or restrictive clothing can irritate or pull off scabs prematurely.
Tegaderm/Saniderm/Second Skin:
Follow steps 1-5 above, ensuring tattoo is clean, dry, and free of lint and hair. Apply aftercare film the morning after receiving the tattoo.
Cut film to a slightly larger size than tattoo (typically an extra 1/2 inch all around. Remove paper backing to expose adhesive and apply to tattoo. Rub down tightly, especially around the edges. Remove the thicker plastic backing on the outside of the film. If using small patches, several can be applied slightly overlapped (about 1/4 inch), and trimmed as needed.
Leave this film in place for about 3-5 days. It is breathable and waterproof, so showers are fine. However, sweat can dissolve the adhesive and cause it to fall off prematurely.
Remove and wash under warm running water. Additional moisturizing may be needed for several days after.
If the film tears while applied, it can be patched with another small piece.
IF ANY SEVERE REACTION OCCURS: remove immediately and wash the tattoo. Severe reactions may include rash, pain, burning sensation, intense redness or any discoloration, excessive bumps nearby. Sometimes minor reactions may occur (such as a few small bumps or slight redness) and these are at your discretion to remove the film or not. Report to your tattooer if you experience any severe reaction.
Thank you! We hope you have enjoyed your experience at Mainstay and look forward to our next session together.
Please let us know if you experience any issues or have additional questions about healing.