How do you heal a tattoo?

Here are the complete instructions on how to heal a tattoo whether you are using a second skin bandage or not!

**FOLLOW THESE HEALING INSTRUCTIONS IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED A BANDAGE ON YOUR NEW TATTOO

(If not skip to next section)

The second skin should be worn for 4-7 days, or as directed by your artist. It's normal for blood, ink and plasma to build up under the bandage. It may make your tattoo look smeared or smudged, please ignore the look of your tattoo while healing, Once the bandage is removed your tattoo will look normal.

Removal - Gently peel or roll the bandage back over itself, iwhile showering with warm, soapy water.

After removing the Derm Shield, you can continue with standard aftercare instructions, such as moisturizing with lotion.

Benefits of using Derm Shield:

Protection: Derm Shield protects the tattoo from bacteria, dirt, and friction.

Moisture Retention: It helps the tattoo retain moisture, which can prevent excessive scabbing and peeling.

Convenience: It reduces the need for frequent bandage changes and allows for showering.

Faster Healing: Some studies suggest it can lead to faster and more comfortable healing.

**Important Notes:

Fluid Buildup: It's normal to see fluid under the bandage, especially with color tattoos.

Removal: Don't pull the bandage upwards; peel it back over itself.

Professional Advice: Refrain from submerging your tattoo while healing, no swimming, bathing or hot tubs. Do not put your tattoo in direct sunlight until after your tattooed is healed. ALWAYS use sunblock on your tattoo to keep it newer looking for longer.

**FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR NON-BANDAGE HEALING

Leave your tattoo completely uncovered while it is healing. DO NOT put any gauze, plastic wrap or other coverings over your tattoo. Regular clothing is absolutely fine to wear, avoid constricting, tight fitting clothing.

You will need to wash and moisturize your tattoo 3 times a day until your tattoo is completely healed.

Wash your tattoo with warm, soapy water with only your hand. DO NOT use a washcloth. Clean your tattoo until it no longer feels slimy (this is you removing the plasma which is trying to create a scab). There is no need to scrub, but you will need to wash your tattoo until it is completely free of slime. This may be uncomfortable, but it is necessary.

Once your tattoo is washed, allow it to air dry.

Apply a VERY SMALL amount of healing ointment such as Hustle Butter to your tattoo by dabbing it on your tattoo and rubbing it into the skin COMPLETELY (like applying sunblock to your skin). You do not want to be able to see a layer of ointment on the surface, this will prolong healing and potentially clog pores.

If you need more ointment from your container, use a different finger as you don't want to contaminate your ointment with bacteria.

Please remember that your tattoo is an exposed and open wound.

DO NOT touch your healing tattoo unless you have just washed your hands. For example, if you touch a doorknob with Staph infection and then touch your tattoo, you could give yourself an infection unintentionally.

Itching and flaking of the skin is completely normal.

If clothing sticks to your tattoo, do not rip the clothing off the tattoo, use warm water to soak the clothing and gently separate the clothing from your tattoo.

Your tattoo should be fully healed in 7 days.

DO NOT go swimming or submerge your tattoo while healing, No baths, pools or hot tubs until your tattoo is healed. Also avoid direct sunlight until your tattoo is healed. Always use sunblock on your tattoo to keep it newer looking longer.

If you have any questions regarding your healing at any time, please reach out to your artist via email or call the shop during business hours.

Thank you for choosing Bluebonnet Tattoo and we truly appreciate you as a valued client.

Bluebonnet and Longhorn Skull Tattoo by Ty Pallotta @TyATX