Tattoo aftercare

 These are the do's and don'ts for healing a tattoo wrapped with removable bandages (NOT clear second skin like Saniderm etc).

 

Do's

  • Remove bandage after at least 3 hours, but no more than 12 hours
  • Use clean hands every time you clean or touch your tattoo
  • For the first 3 days, gently wash tattoo with mild soap and water at least 3 times a day
  • During first 3 days, apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor healing ointment and blot off the excess
  • After 3 days, apply lotion as needed
  • Less is more - in terms of lotion and ointment
  • Air your tattoo out; it needs to dry
  • Contact your tattooer with any questions or concerns

Don'ts:

  • Pick at scabs or flakes
  • Submerge in hot tubs, baths, swimming pools, lakes etc.
  • Re-bandage your tattoo
  • Use heavy lotion or ointment
  • Listen to your friend's advice  

There is no exact science to healing a tattoo, call your artist with any concerns!

 

Body Piercing Aftercare

Rinse your piercing with water, in the shower, at the END of your shower. To do so, use the water pressure from the shower head to rinse soap, shampoo, etc from the piercing site. Do not move your jewelry. In some cases it may be necessary to bring a cotton swab into the shower with you to wipe build-up away from the piercing site.

 

DO NOT touch your piercing outside of the shower

DO NOT use chemicals or ointments on your piercing

DO NOT try to clean your piercing in the bath or at the sink

 

Your body was designed to heal itself; leave it alone and that's what it does. If you have questions or concerns, please call or stop by.

Oral Piercing Aftercare

Use either an antimicrobial or alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse for 30 seconds after meals and before bed (4-6 times per day) for the first 10 days.  To combat the swelling, take ibuprofen as directed on the bottle.  Ice can also be helpful whether you're putting the ice in your mouth for a tongue piercing or holding an ice-pack against your lip. 

 

DO NOT rinse more than 6 times per day

DO NOT drink fermented beverages

 

DO NOT eat hot, spicy, or overly salty food