Dandyland Tattoo Aftercare Suggestions

The commitment you make caring for your tattoo correctly will directly affect it’s long term quality, color, and brightness. Here are some suggestions on caring for your tattoo:

-If Tatu-derm was used, leave it on for 12 – 24 hours. Do not exceed 24 hours as this can negatively affect the tattoo. Fluid buildup under the wrap is normal. To remove: gently stretch the wrap parallel to the skins surface, then slowly fold away from the tattoo. Repeat this until the entire wrap has been removed. If a paper towel or bib was used, leave it on for 2 – 3 hours at the most. Fluids can dry to this bandage making it stick to the new tattoo. Whichever style of bandaging was used it is best to remove it while under running water. Doing this in the shower will rinse any remaining fluid away from the new tattoo and will allow paper bandages to become unstuck and come off smoothly.

-Clean your tattoo 2-3 times daily, no more no less. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after washing your tattoo. Use warm water and wash with a mild liquid (not bar) soap, such as Dove or Ivory. Wash lightly with your finger until all residues from body fluids and/or moisturizers are removed. Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry.

-After washing apply a small amount of Aquaphor for the first three days. It should be a small enough amount that you can barely see it after applied. After three days, stop using Aquaphor and switch to a sensitive skin lotion. Brand does not matter as long as it has the least amount of alcohol and is scent-free. You don’t want your tattoo to dry out. Always wash hands before and after applying moisturizers.

-During the healing process, your tattoo will flake and peel like a sunburn. This is completely normal. You may peel more than once and it WILL itch. Do not pick at any flakes or scratch your tattoo. That can result in loss of pigment. Wear loose clothing that will not rub on your tattoo.

-For at least two weeks, do NOT swim in any fresh, salt, or chlorinated water. Try to avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo. The sun is your tattoo’s worst enemy. It can cause fading and aging of the tattoo even after the tattoo is healed. Sterile bandages or other sterile dressings may be used while the tattoo is healing. Always put sunblock on your healed tattoo, or keep it covered when going outdoors.

-Your tattoo should heal within 2-3 weeks. If you need a touch up, you may return after one month, but no longer than four months. Call or stop by to make an appointment.

If you have any questions or concerns about your tattoo, please call or stop by the shop. Infections and allergic reactions are rare. You should consult a healthcare practitioner at the first sign of infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction and report any diagnosed infection or reaction resulting from the tattoo to the artist, and to the Texas Department of Health, Drugs, and Medical Devices at 1-888-839-6676