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 usually the first port of call.***
Do keep in touch though.
The First method is...
Adhesive bandage:
How to video. Dermalize website
It is a breathable film which is applied to your tattoo after 24 hours. You will need to 'wet heal' the tattoo during the 24 hour period.
The sheet of adhesive bandage is best put on awkward to reach areas by someone else.
. 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.
Then removed after 4-5 days. You can 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:
The Second method is...
The 'balm/cream method' which entails carefully applying a perfume free moisturiser to the tattoo 3-4 times daily, for 1-2 weeks.
I personally use coconut oil or El Gato Negro 'Tattoo Healing Balm which I stock at the studio.
Or check out www.egntattoocare.uk & 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! It opens 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.
The Third method is:
'Wet Healing'
The only unwanted side affect of Wet Healing is '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:
*If you're worried your tattoo might be becoming infected, please contact your GP asap.
I can only provide you with instructions/advice for ensuring your tattoo heals successfully, I can't provide medical advice or perscribe medications.
Songbird Tattoo Studio
57 High Street
Exeter
EX4 3DJ
