Before Your Appointment
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Eat a proper meal 1-2 hours before your appointment.
- Drink water and arrive hydrated.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the tattoo placement. Black clothing is best.
- Bring water or another beverage, snacks, and any comfort items you need for a longer session.
- Avoid alcohol before your appointment.
Second Skin
Aftercare instructions may vary based on your tattoo, placement, skin, and bandage type. Follow the instructions provided at your appointment first. In most cases, Christian uses a product referred to as “second skin” and will ask you to keep it on for 5 days.
A small amount of fluid under the bandage is normal. This can include tattoo ointment, ink, and blood plasma. If the fluid pocket gets very large, leaks, or breaks the bandage seal, contact the studio for guidance.
Showering
You can shower with second skin on because the bandage is waterproof. Avoid very hot water, heavy steam, and direct high-pressure water on the bandage edges. Gently pat the bandage dry with a clean towel.
After the second skin comes off, wash the tattoo gently with clean hands, lukewarm water, and mild fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a clean towel. Do not rub, pick, exfoliate, or remove loose skin.
General Aftercare
- Keep the tattoo clean.
- Use only the recommended amount of aftercare product or moisturizer.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel healing skin.
- Avoid soaking, swimming, tanning, and heavy sun exposure while healing.
- Keep the tattoo protected with loose clothing when needed.
Workouts, Swimming, and Sun
Take it easy while the second skin is on. Heavy sweating, heat, and repeated stretching can loosen the bandage, trap moisture, or compromise the seal. Light, low-intensity movement is usually fine if you avoid heavy sweating.
For about 2-3 weeks, avoid baths, hot tubs, public pools, and extended swimming. Direct UV exposure can fade a fresh tattoo quickly, so keep it covered. Do not put sunscreen on a fresh tattoo until it has had time to heal.
Itching and Touch-Ups
Itching and light flaking can be part of healing. Keep the tattoo moisturized and let flakes come off naturally. Tapping or patting the area when moisturizing can help relieve the sensation without scratching.
If your tattoo heals and needs a slight adjustment, complimentary touch-ups are part of the process when needed. Let Christian know within the first 6 months so it can be reviewed once the tattoo is fully healed.
When to Reach Out
If something does not feel right during healing, contact the studio for guidance. For urgent medical concerns, contact a qualified medical professional.