Good Aftercare is always important.
There 3 different methods of aftercare you can follow.
*All the methods require a strict hygiene routine*
Until the tattoo has developed a scab, it is an open wound & should be treated as such.
Ensuring that your hands are washed/cleaned before washing the tattoo
& applying balm is very important.
Don't use any old balm, as it may contain bacteria & remember don't share balms with others.
***The instructions below will tell you how to successfully & safely heal your tattoo, however if you have any concerns that your tattoo may have become infected, seek professional medical advice as soon as you can, a GP is the first port of call.***
Adhesive bandage:
It is a breathable film which is applied to your tattoo after 24 hours.
*Wet heal' the tattoo during the 24 hour period.
*Peel the paper backing off, place the sticky part of the sheet onto the tattoo.
*Press down and flatten to the skin as much as possible.
*Then remove the top sheet,
(hold the plastic top sheet where the arrows are and pull the top sheet in the direction of the arrows. This can be a little tender.)
*After 4-5 days. You can remove the sheet, bath & shower with the film on.
Once removed then apply a balm once or twice a day for as long as you wish. It's that simple
I stock the film at the studio, but you can also purchase Here:
balm/cream method
apply a perfume free moisturiser to the tattoo 3-4 times daily,
for 1-2 weeks.
I personally use coconut or:
Embody Tattoo Aftercare by Boo.
It is important to wash the tattoo at least 2-3 times a day until the scabs/flakes naturally fall off. Never pick the scabs!
Like any scab that is picked, it will create a wound & can become susceptible to infection. It also pulls the ink out & will require a touch-up. Believe me, we know when a tattoo has been picked.
So as tempting as it is, please don't pick your tattoo.
Wet Healing
Wet Healing can cause 'Heat/Sweat' rash. This can be anything from a small red pin-prick rash to a white spot like rash. It won't affect the tattoos appearance once healed, but it can be painful/unpleasant/itchy so it is best to stop Wet Healing and switch to the Balm/Cream Method, The rash will go within a few days. To help avoid heat/sweat rash it is important to:
wash & re-wrap the tattoo regularly.
Details about 'Wet Healing' can be found below:
Songbird Tattoo Studio
57 High Street
Exeter
EX4 3DJ
