TATTOO AFTER CARE

After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin (the part you can see) will typically heal within 2 to 3 weeks. While it may look and feel healed, and you may be tempted to slow down on the aftercare, it can take as long as 6 months for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal.

Skin around larger tattoos takes longer to recover. Certain factors, like picking at the scabs, not moisturizing, forgoing SPF, or using a lotion with alcohol may slow the process.

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Aftercare with Derm Shield

What is Derm Shield: Unlike plastic wrap, Derm Shield Shield is a medical-grade, breathable, waterproof tattoo bandage. Derm Shield Shield is engineered to be permeable to gasses, like oxygen. These bandages alleviate many of the pitfalls that come with other tattoo healing methods.

Primarily, Derm Shield Shield drastically reduces the risk of contaminants entering the wound site of a fresh tattoo. Wearing Derm Shield Shield protects the area from unwanted shear/friction and allows the body to keep itself moisturized. Plus, it conveniently eliminates sessions of washing and applying aftercare to a new tattoo. The result is a tattoo healing experience that is safer, smoother, and more efficient.

Can I shower while wearing Derm Shield? Yes! Derm Shield Shield stays on the skin even in water, so you’re able to shower as normal. It is waterproof, however, excessive water exposure should be avoided for it can weaken the adhesive. It’s best to avoid swimming or soaking.

Keep the Derm Shield on for a minimum of 4-5 days, and a maximum of 7 days.

The longer you are able to keep it on, the more your tattoo will be able to heal while bandaged.

How to remove Derm Shield: The shower is the ideal place to remove Derm Shield. Running water will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable. Dry removal of Derm Shield may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin.

– Find an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of your natural hair growth.

– Discard the used bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild fragrance-free soap.

– Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.

– If desired, apply a thin layer of aftercare product to your tattoo. If you have naturally oily skin or live in a high humidity climate, feel free to skip this step. Otherwise, use a thin layer of petroleum-free moisturizer to help the tattoo retain moisture and itch less.

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TRADITIONAL AFTER CARE

Leave your bandage on for a minimum of one hour after completing your tattoo session. You may also leave it on overnight to prevent sticking to clothing and sheets.

Gently remove the bandage and wash your tattoo with warm water and a mild fragrance-free soap.

Gently pat dry (do not rub back and forth) your tattoo with a clean dry paper towel or bath towel. If using a bath towel it must be unused and clean. Never reuse the same bath towel to dry your tattoo; always use a fresh clean towel.

You will need to wash your new tattoo 2-3 times daily

– There is no need to re-bandage.

– Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free plain hand lotion like Lubriderm or Aquaphor 2-3 times a day. Lotions should be used very sparingly and should absorb within a few moments. If there is lotion sitting on your tattoo, you have applied too much and can gently blot to excess with a paper towel.

– In 2-3 days, your tattoo will begin to flake or scab. DO NOT pick at your new tattoo. DO NOT submerge your tattoo in pools, baths, hot tubs, or other bodies of water. Please avoid excessive water exposure for a minimum of two weeks.

– Keep your new tattoo clean. Showering is okay but always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

– Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning bed.

Overall, the healthier you are, the faster you will heal. Drink plenty of water!