the inkyscabbies bible to before and after your tattoo

Before your appointment

If you wax, wax 1/2 week *before* your appointment so that your next wax cycle isn't painful or damaging to the skin. Exfoliate and lotion the area (or areas if you're considering different placements) for a week prior to the appointment. Don't bother shaving the area directly before the appointment! 

Days 1-5

Your tattoo is protected by a layer of transparent adhesive called Derm Shield. If possible, leave this in place for 3-5 days. If it becomes torn or comes up at the edges and exposes your tattoo, immediately remove the dressing and begin the steps below. If you work a sweaty job and need extra protection, let me know at your appointment and we can discuss.

Days 5-14

Your tattoo is beginning to heal, yay! Wash it 1-2x daily with antibacterial soap. Dial Gold is a cheap, solid option for this. Don't wash it more than necessary, just enough to keep the skin clean or to wash it if something weird happens (ie: your dog decides to rub all up against your fresh work after a jaunt in some standing water.) 

Now for LITHA: Leave It The Heck Alone! Your immune system should handle the rest with ease. Around days 6-10 you may notice the skin feeling itchy. Your top layer of skin is regenerating and it can be an itchy time. Unscented lotion like CeraVe moisturizing lotion is fine for your healing tattoo. Just remember, if it's shiny, you've used too much! Too little lotion is actually better than too much while your body works to fix the active scabs.

Don't pick your tattoo or the flaking skin. Don't shave or exfoliate the area for six weeks. If you wax, wax 1/2 week *before* your appointment so that your next wax cycle isn't painful or damaging to the skin. Avoid pools, lakes, and other bodies of water for six weeks after your tattoo.

Signs of infection include unusual amounts of swelling, redness, red streaks (this is an emergency, go to an ER!), yellow pus or excessive warmth. Contact a medical professional immediately in this case.