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Tattoo Aftercare Instructions | How to Heal your Ink
Aftercare Reccomendations
Importance of the Recovery Bandage
- The Recovery bandage seals in natural fluids to promote healing, reduce downtime, and maintain tattoo detail.
- It's normal for your body to "weep" plasma; however, excessive weeping may require early bandage removal.
Products to Buy
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1. **Soap:** Dial Gold Antibacterial Unscented Liquid Hand Soap or Dr. Bronner's Baby Castile Soap.
2. **Healing Ointment:** Aquaphor or Hustle Butter/Tattoo salve (if recommended by your artist for the first 2-3 days).
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3. **Lotion:** Aveeno Unscented Lotion or any unscented lotion (e.g., Cetaphil).
Aftercare Steps
1. **Leave the Bandage On:**
- Keep the Recovery bandage on for 3-5 days.
- If it leaks or tears, remove it under hot running water and follow regular aftercare.
2. **Removing the Bandage:**
- Remove during a hot shower to assist with adhesive removal.
- Discard the bandage and wash the tattoo gently with the recommended soap (3 times a day).
3. **Washing the Tattoo:**
- Use clean hands; avoid abrasive materials.
- Let water run over the tattoo; do not spray directly.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
4. **Moisturizing:**
- Apply Healing Ointment until peeling starts. Once peeling, use unscented lotion (Aveeno or Cetaphil) after washing or until dryness/itching resolves.
Additional Care Instructions
- Avoid the gym, sweating, or soaking the tattoo while it’s healing (10-14 days)
Important Reminders
- If you experience any issues (e.g., rash, odor, or peeling), remove the bandage and follow steps 3-4.
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- Remember that a tattoo is an open wound; keep it clean and moisturized.
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- For questions, reach out directly instead of asking friends for advice.
