scaredy.cat.tatts
Edmonton, Alberta
TATTOO AFTERCARE
SECOND SKIN AFTERCARE
At Pansy Poke Collective we use Hypafix brand second skin bandages. I recommend these be kept on for 3 - 4 days, but can be left up to 7 days if required.
✿ When it is time to remove your bandage, wash your hands thoroughly and carefully peel the bandage upwards away from your skin (like removing a command hook). I recommend removing it in the shower with warm, but not hot water for the most painless experience.
✿ Once the bandage has been removed clean the area with warm water and a gentle antibacterial soap to remove any adhesive residue, ink and blood. Pat dry with a clean paper towel to avoid contamination.
✿ Apply a thin layer of un-scented moisturizer a couple times a day as needed until your tattoo is healed. If your tattoo is in an area exposed to sunlight make sure you apply sunscreen as well! I avoid moisturizers that are too thick/don't allow the tattoo to breathe (i.e. - vaseline, etc...), you don't want to accidentally "soak" your tattoo in moisturizer.
✿ Your second skin bandage is waterproof (although submerging in any liquid is not recommended) allowing you to shower and complete your daily activities with minimal discomfort. This type of bandage acts as an "artificial scab" and protects your new tattoo from infection and other irritants.
✿ If your second skin bandage peels up to reveal the tattoo, gets damaged, leaks fluid or any part of the tattoo becomes exposed to the outside world it is no longer a clean environment and your second skin should be removed immediately.
✿ Please let me know if you are allergic to Hypafix or other second skin type products.
SECOND SKIN REACTIONS: If you notice redness/irritation around the edges of the bandage and not on the tattoo itself or feel a burning sensation, remove the bandage immediately and follow the recommended wound bandage aftercare instructions. Please seek medical attention if needed.
WOUND BANDAGE AFTERCARE
For those with second skin reactions or a preference for this style of bandaging I will do a "wound bandage" wrap on you, this includes a telfa pad (non-absorbent pad), medical tape and a self-adhesive wrap.
✿ This bandage should be kept on for 24 hours or less to best protect your new tattoo. I typically recommend taking it off the morning after your appointment.
✿ When it is time to remove your bandage, wash your hands thoroughly and unwrap/remove your bandage. Clean the area with warm water and a gentle antibacterial soap to remove any ink and blood. Pat down the area with a clean paper towel to avoid contamination.
✿ For the next 1-2 days do your best to keep your new tattoo safe as is it basically an open wound and should be treated as such. I recommend washing your tattoo once daily, or as needed with gentle antibacterial soap for the first 1-2 days while you allow your skin to form a scab. During this time avoid clothing with fabrics that may stick to the wound.
✿ After 1-2 days you can go ahead with a thin layer of unscented moisturizer a couple times a day as needed until your tattoo is healed. If your tattoo is an area exposed to sunlight make sure you apply sunscreen as well! I avoid moisturizers that are too thick/don't allow the tattoo to breathe (i.e. - vaseline, etc...), you don't want to accidentally "soak" your tattoo in moisturizer.
✿ AVOID getting these bandages wet entirely, if your bandage gets wet remove it immediately. You can NOT shower with a wound bandage on.
✿ For wound bandages wrapped fully around a limb with a self-adhesive wrap ensure that this wrap does not get too tight around your limbs. Monitor the area below your bandage for swelling, numbness or blood pooling. If your wrap is too tight you can take it off and re-wrap it looser.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
✿ Avoid any soaps or lotions with fragrances/harsh chemicals as they can irritate your skin
✿ Do not scratch, pick or itch your tattoo as it is healing (scabbing/flaking/peeling are a normal part of the healing process, picking at these pieces can affect how your tattoo heals)
✿ Do not submerge your tattoo until it is fully healed (baths, swimming, hot tubs, etc...)
✿ Keep your tattoo away from direct sunlight or tanning beds. Apply sunscreen as needed.
✿ Avoid tight clothing/accessories that may rub or constrict the area
✿ Avoid working out, or any activity that generates a significant amount of sweat for the first 24 hours after getting your tattoo
✿ Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo while it is healing
If you are ever unsure about a part of the healing process are have any concerns you can always contact me at scaredy.cat.tatts@gmail.com and I will do my best to advise you. Always seek medical help if you feel something may not be right!