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Rooted Body
Tattoo Aftercare Guide
To ensure your tattoo heals beautifully, it’s important to follow proper aftercare instructions. Below are detailed guidelines to help your tattoo heal based on the type of wrap used: saran wrap or second skin.
General Tattoo Aftercare Steps
Wash Hands Before Touching Your Tattoo:
Always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before touching your tattoo.
Pat Dry:
Use a clean paper towel to gently pat the tattoo dry. Avoid using bathroom towels that may already have been used.
Apply Tattoo Ointment:
Use a thin layer of a tattoo-specific ointment or unscented lotion to keep the tattoo moisturized. Avoid using lotions with alcohol based scents.
Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight during the healing process. After it is healed, I suggest using SPF lotion to keep the tattoo vibrant for as long as possible.
Avoid Scratching or Picking:
Allow any scabbing to heal naturally without picking.
Avoid Swimming or Soaking:
Keep your tattoo away from pools, baths, hot tubs, or any soaking until it’s fully healed.
Saran Wrap Aftercare Instructions
Saran wrap is used for the first few hours after the tattoo is finished to protect it from bacteria and exposure.
Duration:
Keep the saran wrap on for 2-4 hours post-tattoo.
Removal:
Once removed, wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild soap to remove any blood or plasma.
After Washing:
Pat the area gently with a paper towel, then apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment. I suggest Aquaphor or A&D ointment.
Follow-Up Care:
Do not re-wrap the tattoo with saran wrap after the initial removal. Allow the tattoo to breathe by wearing loose, clean clothing.
For the first 3 days:
Wash the tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap twice day. Dial gold is my go-to soap. Pat the tattoo dry and apply a thin layer or Aquaphor or Vitamin A&D ointment. Make sure the layer is thin so that the tattoo can breathe.
Continue this process daily until day 4.
On day 4:
Continue to wash the tattoo 2x daily but instead of Aquaphor, use a unscented light lotion or tattoo specific lotion such as Lubriderm, CeraVe, or Coconut oil.
Continue this routine daily for 2 weeks.
Second Skin Aftercare Instructions
Second skin (such as Saniderm) is a adhesive bandage designed to protect the tattoo while allowing it to heal with minimal intervention.
Watch for Allergic Reactions:
If the your skin around the second skin becomes red, itchy, irritated, or bumpy remove the Second Skin immediately, gently was the area with a antibacterial soap and continue with the
Saran Wrap aftercare Instructions.
Duration:
Leave the second skin on for 14 days. If it comes off earlier, switch to the Saran Wrap aftercare Instructions.
To Remove:
Gently peel back the bandage under lukewarm running water. It should come off smoothly without causing discomfort.
After Removal:
Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Pat dry, then apply a thin layer of unscented lotion to keep it moisturized.
Keep It Clean & Moisturize:
Gently wash your tattoo once or twice a day, but do not over-clean it.
Keep the tattoo hydrated with a thin layer of unscented lotion but avoid over-moisturizing.
Continue for at least the next 2 weeks.
What to Expect During Healing
Watch for Infection:
If you notice excessive redness, pus, or severe discomfort, please consult a healthcare professional.
Days 1-3:
Some swelling, redness, and tenderness are normal.
Days 3-7:
The tattoo may begin to scab or flake; this is a natural part of healing.
Days 7-14:
Flaking should continue, and any scabbing will gradually fall off. The area may still be slightly itchy, but avoid scratching.