Before Your Appointment

Proper preparation is essential to the longevity of your tattoo. Please make sure to: 

• Shower and razor the area of the tattoo (help me save plastic!) 
• Moisturize your skin 1-2 hours before coming to the studio
• Please be cautious when applying your own lidocaine products prior to our appointment. I am not a doctor, and do not know how high-lidocaine ointments may affect underlying health conditions. If needed, we can use 5% Bactine spray during the tattoo session. 
• Eat a big meal, and stay hydrated. Bring extra snacks!
• Bring an ID with birthdate 
• If you're having a more sensitive area tattooed, make sure to dress properly, as this is a shared studio space. Wear non-valuable clothes (preferably black) in the area of the tattoo in case ink gets on it. Feel free to bring slippers or a blanket to stay comfy! Per the health department, I cannot supply these items.
• No aspirin the day of the tattoo (ibuprofen is fine)
• Do not drink alcohol within 12 hours prior to your session, as this can prolong the healing process
• Keep your day flexible, I cannot rush a tattoo :)

Your new tattoo is covered with medical-grade derm shield. This covering is oxygen permeable, which means you can leave it on for 4 days. The wrap must be left on for a minimum 24 hours. Please do not remove and rewrap with other dressings. You must treat your tattoo like an open wound. 

For 2 weeks after

• Wear clean, loose-fitted clothing in the area of the tattoo  
• DO NOT Reapply the bandage if it comes off prematurely 
• DO NOT itch, scratch, or peel skin around the tattoo
• As it heals, it may flake. Tap instead to relieve itching
• DO NOT apply alcohol or peroxide  
• Avoid swimming, soaking, and sauna/steam 

After day 4

• Remove the bandage by pulling in the direction of hair growth. Removing the bandage while wet in the shower works best 
• Wash the tattoo gently with fingertips and antibacterial soap 
• Do not scrub the tattoo with wash cloths, simply let air dry. Do not recover the tattoo 
• For the first week, apply a thin layer of non-scented lotion or a&d ointment as needed until all signs of scabbing disappear
• Avoid direct contact with sunlight, people, animals, or unsanitary objects

Long-term care 

• Tattoos typically heal within 6-10 days. Afterwards, it’s recommended to frequently apply a moisturizer such as A&D ointment, Vaseline Intensive Care, or Aveeno.
• Apply the strongest sunblock possible to avoid fading. DO NOT apply until the tattoo has completely shedded skin. 

Additional healing notes

When your tattoo is covered with derm shield, there is a good chance it will fill with plasma, ink, and blood, creating a brown mixture. The tattoo may continue to weep for 48 hrs after your session. This is totally normal. If the liquid becomes excessive after 24 hours, you may remove the bandage and follow the above instructions. If the liquid leaks out of the bandage at any point, you may remove the bandage.