HOW LONG DO I WEAR THE BANDAGES
For a Derm Bandages, the see-through film bandage, we recommend to wear it until the bandage builds up with too much plasma/fluid or if the seal of the bandage becomes open. Once that happens we would recommend removing and either apply your next bandage or to switch to Traditional Aftercare (see Traditional Aftercare Directions above).
For Traditional Aftercare, we have wrapped you in a wound dressing/paper towel that should be removed in 2-3 hours.
IS MY TATTOO LEAKING INK?
Nope. What you see is Plasma, which is normally clear. When the plasma passes by your pigment/healing tattoo it will discolor the plasma.
If you have a black tattoo you will have black plasma discharge.
IS MY TATTOO INFECTED?
Infection can happen! Bacterial infections could be already living on your skin or you could come in contact with something environmental that causes your reaction.
Tattoo infections are unique and different than what is normal for other wounds. Tattoos, when are infected, will have a particular appearance that varies on what type of infection you may have.
Signs of infections should be reviewed with us first. After a few days, your tattoo should start to calm down. Redness, irritation, swelling, and pain should become less. (However, keep in mind the more you aggravate your tattoo with motion, activities, clothing, etc these symptoms may be extended.)
If these symptoms have not lessened over time, you will want to look for excessive swelling, a smell, a green/dark yellow discharge, pitting/hole appearance of your skin, a particular rash, etc.
If you see any of these signs please contact us right away to review a treatment plans.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HEAL?
The upper layer of your dermis may take anywhere from 2-4weeks to heal. The under tissue we have damaged while tattooing could take up to 8 weeks.
Tattoos heal differently person to person and on different areas of the body so it's important to remain patient and diligent while healing
MY TATTOO IS SORE IS THAT NORMAL?
If you have noticed your tattoo is sore days after your tattoo session, consider your motions and activities throughout your day. If you have an active job, or you are working out while your tattoo is healing this may extend your heal time.
If none of these applies to you give us a call!
DO YOU OFFER TOUCH UPS?
We do offer touch-ups! We will cover the cost of the touch-up in some situations that we notice during your session. However, if the tattoo was not taken care of per our directions the tattoo touch up expense will be yours.
If you were awesome and allowed an apprentice to tattoo you, your touch-up within the first year of getting your tattoo is covered.
WHAT OITMENT SHOULD I USE?
Aquaphor and/or A&D. We recommend ingredient neutral ointment, meaning the ingredients are more likely not to have a reaction to different skin types or allergies. However, if you are veteran and have a particular ointment you prefer and have tried out, please feel free.
No non-scented lotion should be applied until your skin layer has healed, which usually takes 2-4 weeks depending on your skin, and overall healing.
WHAT SOAP SHOULD I USE?
We love Dawn and our Gold Dial. These basic soap types that usually can be found in your home. If you would like to try something else more specific consult with us or ensure the soap is not a hydrating, scented, glittered or alcohol-based product.
AM I HAVING A REACTION TO THE BANDAGE?
The Derm bandage is a very aggressive adhesive.
Redness is normal and may only appear on the edges.
Blisters/bumps may appear on the edges which are usually caused by motion. The more you move the harder the bandage has to work.
If there are bumps are everywhere, this may be a result of soap residue or ingrown hairs from shaving that area.
Any other symptoms give us a call!
