Tattoo Aftercare

At Example Tattoo, we understand that a tattoo is a powerful form of self-expression and it's crucial to have the guidance of professional artists for proper aftercare. By following the instructions provided, your tattoo will heal quickly and effectively. We also offer a variety of aftercare products that can be recommended by our team. Our staff is always available to assist clients with any questions or concerns, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Caring for Your New Tattoo

After getting a tattoo, your artist will clean the tattooed area and then cover it with a wrap or bandage. Our artists typically use Dri-Loc pads, Saniderm self-adherent wrap, or Saniderm tattoo bandage for this purpose.

For Dri-Loc Pads:
The pad should be left on the tattooed skin for 1-2 hours. The pad will not only protect the skin but also absorb any excess ink or blood. After removing the pad, it should be discarded and the area should be cleaned gently with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water. Then, pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry before applying aftercare ointment as outlined in the "Caring for Your Tattoo" section lower on this page.

For Saniderm Tattoo Bandage or Wrap:
The wrap or bandage can be left on the tattooed area for 8-24 hours. The length of time will depend on how much fluid your tattoo leaks and how well the adhesive is holding up. If you notice excessive fluid under the wrap, you will need to remove it. The best way to remove it is in a warm shower, where the warm water will loosen the adhesive. Carefully pull the wrap off in the direction of your hair growth and then clean the tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water. After cleaning, you can use another patch for 3-5 days or apply a thin layer of ointment and follow the cleaning instructions outlined below.

Caring for Your New Tattoo

It is essential your new tattoo is kept clean, allowed to breathe, and the skin kept slightly moist during the healing process. We have outlined the general instructions on caring for your tattoo.

• Wash the tattooed area, twice a day (morning and night), using an antibacterial soap with warm water; Dab or blot dry the skin gently.

• With clean hands, apply a small amount, creating a thin layer, of anti-bacterial ointment 2-3 times a day for 3 to 4 weeks. Any of the following will work: Vitalitree, A&D, or Aquaphor.Do not scratch your tattoo; It will itch during the healing process. This process can last up to two weeks.

• Do not swim, soak in a hot tub, or take a bath for two weeks after getting your tattoo. Also, avoid tanning.

• Do not scratch your tattoo; It will itch during the healing process. This process can last up to two weeks.

What to Expect After Your Tattoo

A tattoo causes trauma to your body. Depending on the placement, the size, and an individual’s hygiene, and daily activities, healing is different for everyone. Because a tattoo is an open wound they are susceptible to infections, it is best to follow the aftercare instructions listed above to lower your risk of problems during the healing process.

You should expect your new tattoo to be red, irritated, swollen, and possibly bruised. These are normal reactions to the tattoo area. Usually, you can anticipate 1 to 3 days for red or irritated skin to subside. If swelling or bruising occurs, this could last for up to a week, especially if tattooed in a sensitive area such as the feet.

Scabbing is a result of the body’s healing process. For some, your tattoo may have some scabbing. If you experience any scabbing, it is imperative that you do not pick at it. Let the scab fall off naturally. You will also want to make sure that you keep the area clean as well as moisturized, but do not over moisturize, follow the instructions listed above.

During the final stages of the healing process, typically 3 to 10 days you can expect the skin to start to flake and peel. It is imperative that you do not pick or scratch at the area, this could remove ink from the tattoo and damage it. A light slap, preferable over clothed skin, will give you relief when itching occurs.

If during the healing process you experience bubbles forming on the surface, not as common but can occur, stop applying any ointments, the moisture can get trapped and lead to possible scabbing; you want your tattoo to dry out. Make sure should wash the tattoo, pat dry it, and let it dry and peel on its own. Any scabs should fall off on their own, and if no trauma occurred such as scratching, the ink should remain.

At SD Tattoo, we stand by our work. If a touch up on your tattoo is needed, our artists will complete at no additional charge, as long as you return within the first 90 days. If you are not in the area during this time frame, please contact us to explain your circumstance, and we would be happy to extend that period.

Piercing Aftercare

A good piercing can still cause problems if not cared for properly. Everyone’s body reacts differently to the various types of piercings. The healing process of the piercing always goes better when the client follows our aftercare guidelines listed below. Our piercers are also available if you have any questions about the healing process, do not hesitate to contact us.

Caring for Your New Piercing

It is imperative for new piercings to have proper aftercare during the healing process. Not doing so can delay the healing time by months or sometimes years, do not take it lightly. Below we have outlined the general things you should do as well as things you should not be when caring for your piercing.

• Reduce pain and swelling: Ice combined with IB Profin will help alleviate pain and swelling- IB Profin should be used as directed on bottle.

• Before caring for your piercing: Always wash your hands before cleaning or handling your new piercing.

• Clean piercing regularly: The piercing should be cleaned 2-4 times a day – We suggest using unscented antibacterial soap, Epson Salt dissolved in warm water, saline solution, or we have several aftercare products available for purchase. (Do NOT use – Neosporin, Vaseline, Alcohol, or Peroxide).

• Check jewelry daily: While cleaning your piercing, you should check that jewelry is secure as well as slightly rotate the piercing. (Only rotate when piercing area is wet, never dry)

• Avoid overly touching the piercing: Never play with your piercing jewelry or touch it with unwashed hands – this can cause irritation or infection.

• Avoid swimming while it is healing: Pools, lakes and, oceans; typically 4-6 weeks

• Changing your jewelry: You should wait at least 2 weeks before your Jewelry is changed out, this should be done by a professional piercer the first time. We are available to change the jewelry for you.

***Do NOT remove your jewelry if you suspect infection. Irritation can be mistaken for infection. The jewelry must remain in to allow drainage. If you have any concerns, please call us immediately: (555) 555-5555

Cleaning Instructions by Piering Type

• Oral Piercings: Every time you “eat” or “drink” (besides water), “smoke anything,” “kiss,” “or put anything in your mouth”: you should rinse with (NON-ALCOHOL) Mouthwash. You can use Listerine, BUT use 1/2 Listerine, 1/2 Water in a clean glass cup. Brush teeth regularly.

• Labret, Snake Bites, Monroe, and Dimples Piercings: as mentioned above, but also clean around the ball on outside with Bactine or Saline Solution on clean Q-Tip.

• All Other Piercings: Clean around the ball with Bactine or Saline Solution in clean Q-Tip. AVOID USING FINGERS!

• First week: Twice a day. Second week: Once a day. Third week”: Every other day

Approximate Healing Time

• Cheek: 2 – 3 months

• Cartilage: 2 months – 1 year

• Earlobe: 6 – 8 weeks

• Eyebrow: 6 – 8 weeks

• Genitals: 4 weeks – 6 months

• Labret: 6 – 8 weeks

• Lip: 6 – 8 weeks

• Navel: 6 months – 1 year

• Nipple: 2 – 6 months

• Nostril: 2 months – 1 year

• Septum: 6 – 8 weeks

• Tongue: 4 – 6 weeks