TATTOO AFTERCARE

Please follow these instructions carefully for the best results.

Remove your bandage after four hours.

With clean hands, wash your tattoo with unscented soap and warm water (I like Dove soap in a hand pump). Pat dry with a paper towel and let it air out for 15 minutes before applying a very small amount of Aquaphor*. Work it into the skin so the tattoo doesn’t look wet.
Repeat twice a day for the first three days.

Also, wrap your tattoo for the first 3 nights while sleeping and for 6-8 hours the day after getting tattooed.

To Wrap: After washing & drying your tattoo, cover with plastic wrap. Use tape to secure. Use new, clean plastic wrap each time you cover. Never cover it without washing the tattoo first. You don’t need to use Aquaphor when you are wrapping the tattoo.

After the third night, discontinue wrapping the tattoo and discontinue the use of Aquaphor. Continue to wash your tattoo and moisturize with an unscented lotion like Aveeno. Healing takes about 2-3 weeks and is done once the tattoo no longer looks dry and flaky.

For 2 weeks:

No picking or scratching.

No exposure to prolonged sunlight.

Don’t submerge it in water. Getting the tattoo wet in the shower is fine, but no baths, swimming or chlorine.

No sunscreen until the tattoo is fully healed.

Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

*Alternative healing techniques should be discussed with me! If you don't like Aquaphor, a great product is Unpetroleum. I am also a fan of tegaderm and other healing methods. Please check the highlights on my Instagram for more options. Please go over your chosen healing plan with me so we can make sure your tattoo heals well!

For pain management, I recommend Tylenol. This is fine to use before and after your tattoo. Avoid medications like Ibuprofen, Advil, Asprin or other blood thinners that may affect the quality of your tattoo. Some folks find that icing their tattoo (when wrapped in plastic) can provide relief. I think it’s fine as long as you’re not experiencing a burning sensation.

If you have questions or problems contact me!

karenglasstattoo@gmail.com