aftercare

Recommended Product for healing: SANIDERM, Gold Dial Liquid Soap, Aquaphor Healing Ointment or A&D Ointment

SANIDERM Aftercare:
First SANIDERM → After 3-24 hours, remove it under warm running water → Wash the area with soap and gently pat it dry or use a clean towel → Apply a second SANIDERM → After 3-7 days, remove the SANIDERM under warm running water → Wash the area with soap and dry → Apply a thin layer of ointment until the tattoo is fully healed

1. Artist will apply a SANIDERM patch based on the size of your tattoo.

2. Leave the initial SANIDERM application on for 3-24 hours. Do not exceed 24 hours.

3. Replace the initial SANIDERM with a second application that your artist provided.
   a. Under warm running water, locate an edge of the SANIDERM and gently peel it back in the direction of your natural hair growth. The shower is an ideal place for removing SANIDERM .
   b. Gently wash your tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap.
   c. Let the tattoo air dry or pat it dry with a clean towel.
   d. Apply a new and clean piece of SANIDERM once your skin is completely dry. SANIDERM will not adhere well to wet or moist skin.

4. Leave the second SANIDERM on for 3-7 days and remove it under warm running water as described in step 3a.

5. Gently wash your tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap.

6. Allow the tattoo to air dry or gently pat it dry with a clean towel.

7. Gently apply a thin layer of ointment, avoiding excessive moisture. Do not rub the ointment in; apply a thin layer once or twice a day after washing your tattoo.

8. Continue this routine until the tattoo is healed, which usually takes 2-4 weeks.

General Information and Warning About SANIDERM:

1. SANIDERM is a transparent medical dressing that supports the healing process of your tattoo. You will receive the initial SANIDERM application in the shop before leaving.

2. If you have a latex or adhesive allergy, SANIDERM will not be applied. In case of allergies, you will need to follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions. It is important to inform your artist if you have latex or adhesive allergies.

3. SANIDERM is shower-safe, but if water gets inside the dressing, you need to remove it immediately under warm running water as described in step 3-a. Then, follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions.

4. SANIDERM is not suitable for swimming or bathing.

5. If SANIDERM begins to peel and the tattoo becomes exposed, remove it immediately under warm running water as described in step 3-a. Then, follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions.

6. If fluid is leaking from the SANIDERM , it indicates that the seal is broken. Remove it immediately under warm running water as described in step 3-a. Then, follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions.

7. If you experience an allergic reaction from SANIDERM , remove it immediately under warm running water as described in step 3-a. Then, follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions.

8. Avoid sun exposure, swimming, or tanning until your tattoo is fully healed.

Traditional Aftercare:
A. If SANIDERM is Applied After Tattooing by the Artist: Remove SANIDERM after 3-24 hours under warm running water → Wash the area with soap and gently pat it dry or use a clean towel → Apply a thin layer of ointment until the tattoo is fully healed
B. If the Artist Didn't Apply SANIDERM: Wash the area with soap under warm running water and gently pat it dry or use a clean towel → Apply a thin layer of ointment until the tattoo is fully healed

1. If your artist applied Saniderm at the shop (if not, jump to step 2,) remove it within 3-24 hours under warm running water. Locate an edge of the Saniderm and gently peel it back in the direction of your natural hair growth. The shower is also an ideal place to remove Saniderm.

2. Gently wash your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap.

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

4. Gently apply a thin layer of ointment. Avoid excessive moisture, and do not rub the ointment in. Apply a thin layer of ointment once or twice a day after washing your tattoo. Continue this routine until the tattoo is healed, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Avoid the following until your tattoo is fully healed (usually about 4 weeks after your tattoo appointment):

1. Bathing, swimming, hot tubs, saunas, the beach, intense workouts, tanning, or sun exposure. These can increase the risk of infection.

2. If you suspect an infection (signs include a swollen and hot tattoo area, spreading redness, or yellow-green pus), seek urgent care or your provider immediately.

Tips to protect your tattoo and aid the healing process:

1. Exposing your healing tattoo to the sun for long periods (sunbathing) can impact how your tattoo heals. Do not use sunscreen until your tattoo is fully healed. Once healed, use sunscreen to protect it from sun exposure.

2. Avoid using Vaseline and Neosporin, as they can clog your pores and hinder the healing process.

3. Refrain from exercising for the first 3 days after getting a tattoo. Sweat can affect healing and increase the risk of infection. If you have a larger tattoo, consider delaying exercise for a longer period.

4. Do not pick at your tattoo. Flaking or scabbing is a natural part of healing, but picking can lead to infection. Instead, gently moisturize the area once or twice a day and allow it to heal.

5. Avoid scratching your tattoo, even if it feels itchy. Itching is a normal part of the healing process, but scratching can cause infection. Lightly moisturize the area to help relieve itchiness.

6. Do not over-moisturize your tattoo. Excessive moisturizer can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

TIPS:

1. For Cleaning Tattoo: Gently wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.

2. Moisturizing: If your tattoo feels too dry, apply a thin layer of ointment to keep it moisturized.

3. Dryness: If your tattoo feels overly moisturized, reduce the amount and frequency of ointment application.

4. Shower: Avoid direct water spray on the tattoo. Let the water gently touch the tattooed area, and make sure it is the last area you wash. Ensure there is no body wash or shampoo residue on the tattooed area.

5. Itchiness: If your tattoo itches, apply a thin layer of ointment or gently tap on the skin instead of scratching.

6. Stay Hydrated: Maintain hydration and avoid caffeine or alcohol for the first few days.

What to Look For:

1. Redness, Swelling, and Heat: Redness, swelling, and warmth are common during the healing process. However, if you experience a fever, or notice the red or swollen area spreading and getting progressively hotter, seek medical attention immediately. Usually, urgent care centers can assist you.

2. Red Tattoo Ink Allergy: Some people experience an allergy to red tattoo ink. If your other tattoos are fine, but the tattoo with red ink is irritated, you may have an allergy to red tattoo ink. Mild symptoms may resolve as the healing process progresses, but if it becomes unbearable, consult a doctor.

3. Tattoo Leaking Fluid: It is normal for a tattoo to leak fluid during healing. Your immune system will combat the new foreign substance (tattoo ink) and create fluid (a clear fluid mixed with excess ink). This is blood plasma and ink and is a normal part of the healing process. However, if you notice pus (a thicker fluid, usually yellow or green), seek medical attention.

4. Flakes and Scabs: Flaking and scabbing are normal parts of the healing process, as the tattoo is an open wound. It will heal similarly to other open wounds.

5. Pimples: If your artist shaved the area before tattooing, you may experience ingrown hairs clogging your pores. This is normal, so avoid squeezing or picking at them. If the pimples contain green or yellow pus, seek medical attention immediately.

The healing process varies for each person, as each individual’s body is unique. Infection can occur during the healing process because your immune system may react to the tattoo. If you suspect something is wrong or have concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me via text at (213-773-3888) or email at info@nicotattoo.com