Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Your tattoo has been protected with Recovery Derm Shield, a breathable, latex-free, waterproof medical-grade bandage. This barrier is designed to lock in your body’s natural healing response while keeping out dirt and bacteria.

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Key features:

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• Transparent, breathable, and waterproof
   

• Comfortable for daily wear, including showers
   

• Can remain on for up to 4 days, unless you have a known adhesive allergy or experience discomfort
   

While the bandage is in place, no additional aftercare is needed. Just avoid excessive movement, friction, or exposure to harsh environments that could compromise the seal.

You can remove the bandage any time after the first 24 hours, but it is highly recommended to leave it on for at least one full day and up to four.
 

To remove:
 

• Do so under lukewarm running water (e.g., in the shower).
   

• Peel slowly and gently from a top corner, pulling it downward and flat along the skin, not upward like a regular Band-Aid.
   

• Take your time—rushing may cause irritation.
   

Once the bandage is removed (or if you did not receive a bandage), follow these steps:
 

• Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
   

• Use cool or lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free, antibacterial soap (such as Dial, Dove, or Dr. Bronner’s unscented).
   

• Clean the tattoo using only your hands in a gentle circular motion.
   

• Rinse thoroughly.
   

• Pat dry with a clean paper towel – never rub or use cloth towels, which can harbor bacteria.

After cleaning and drying:
 

• Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, non-comedogenic hand lotion or aftercare ointment.
   

• Look for options with minimal ingredients (e.g., Aveeno, Lubriderm, Eucerin, or natural ‘tattoo’ options like Redemption, Hustle Butter, or Mad Rabbit if preferred).
   

• Avoid heavy ointments like Vaseline, A&D, or Aquaphor unless directed.
   

• Absolutely no Neosporin
   

Repeat this wash-and-moisturize routine 2–3 times daily for the next 3 weeks.

Your tattoo will go through several normal phases:

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• Redness, tightness, and sensitivity in the first 24–48 hours
   

• Flaking and peeling around days 3–7 (may resemble colored dandruff – this is not ink loss)
   

• Itching as new skin regenerates
   

• Temporary dullness during healing – vibrancy returns as skin settles
   

Small scabs may form. Do not pick, scratch, or peel under any circumstance.

For at least 3 weeks, please avoid:

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• Swimming (pools, oceans, lakes, hot tubs, etc.)
   

• Soaking baths
   

• Direct sun exposure or tanning beds
   

• Heavy sweating or high-friction activities on the area
   

• Exfoliants, fragrances, or alcohol-based products on the tattoo

Contact me if you notice any of the following:
 

• Unusual swelling, redness, or heat beyond the second day
   

• Thick discharge, pus, or foul odor
   

• Persistent rashes or hives beyond temporary irritation
   

• Drastic color changes (outside of expected healing)
   

You can text me directly at 267-424-0080 if you have concerns.

• Once healed (after 3+ weeks), feel free to reach out for a touch-up consultation if any area requires refinement. Touch-ups are assessed case-by-case and are included within the first 2 months. 

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• Your tattoo is a living piece of art. Take care of it with intention—and it will remain bold, vibrant, and meaningful for years to come.