The healing process for a tattoo typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks. Within the first 24–48 hours, your tattoo will push out excess fluid and ink, this is completely normal! After your tattoo is done, I'll wrap it one of two ways, depending on the tattoo and your preferences.
Leave the wrap on for 30 minutes to 3 hours. I'll let you know the exact time at your appointment. During this time, your tattoo will be pushing out excess fluid and ink.
Once the wrap comes off, there may be a thick plasma on the surface, this is normal. Using a clean hand and Dial Gold Soap, gently clean the area, removing all plasma and ink, then pat dry with a clean towel.
Moisturize with a thin layer of Aquaphor. Don't over-apply! If you can still see a shine, dab off the excess with a clean towel. After about day 3, you can switch to an unscented lotion or tattoo balm for the remaining two weeks.
Saniderm will stay on for 3-5 days, during which your tattoo will keep pushing out fluid and ink, this plasma sits between your skin and the wrap, which is okay. If it's draining heavily and compromising the wrap, come back to the studio and I'll change it for you.
If you notice redness, swelling, or irritation on the edges of the Saniderm, not the tattoo itself, remove it right away with warm water and Dial Gold Soap and continue healing as described above.
Once it comes off, clean well with a clean hand and Dial Gold Soap, pat dry, and apply Aquaphor, tattoo balm, or an unscented lotion. Clean once or twice a day and moisturize 2–3 times a day for at least a week after removal.
Complete healing can take up to 4 weeks. It's totally normal for your tattoo to be itchy, swollen, red, scabbing, peeling, irritated, or pushing out fluid during this time.
Don't wash your tattoo with anything abrasive, like sponges, loofahs, or rags.
Don't submerge it in ANY standing water like pools, baths, lakes, or oceans for at least 3 weeks.
Don't pick at peeling skin or scabs.
Don't over-saturate it with ointment. It should barely shine after application. Avoid direct sunlight for 2-3 weeks.
If something feels off or you're having trouble healing, reach out to me directly and I'll help you.
Once fully healed, keep moisturizing regularly and apply sunscreen before heading out, it'll help your tattoo age well and prevent it from fading as quickly.
I do offer touch-ups if needed, though with proper aftercare they're usually not necessary. If you think your tattoo needs one, just reach out and we'll schedule an appointment. Touch-ups do not extend beyond a year, are not provided if you were advised to alter the tattoo for better healing, and are not valid for tattoos other than my own.