• Using clean hands remove the plastic wrap and gently wash your tattoo under warm water with soap using small circular motions making sure you cover all of the tattoo and surrounding areas, we recommend using Dr Pickles foam wash, please note some body washes with fragrances can irritate the skin and dry out the tattoo! Carefully make sure you are washing away any ointment, dry blood/plasma until the area is clean and no longer feeling ‘slimy’ then gently pat dry with a clean paper towel.
• Using clean hands you can now apply a THIN layer of aftercare, we recommend using Dr Pickles balm. Apply by placing balm onto clean fingers going in small gentle circular motions which will stimulate the skin’s blood flow and encourage the healing process.

Your tattoo will take approximately 4 weeks to heal, during this time you will need to make sure you are always keeping your tattoo clean and giving it a gentle wash and applying the aftercare balm 1-2 times per day over the next 1-2 weeks. You do not want your tattoo to get too moist or too dry therefore you will need to apply as you feel necessary. Your skin may feel tight, dry and itchy which may cause you discomfort, this is when you can apply the cream.

• If you work in a trade environment or if there is a possibility that your tattoo will come in contact with soil, dirt, dust or bacteria please contact us and we can advise you on how to wrap your tattoo according to your artist’s recommendations.
• For the next 24-48 hours the area may seep clear fluid, this is a completely normal part of the healing process. You want to make sure to regularly change your sheets and clothing to avoid staining and to stop formation of bacteria.
• Do not swim, soak, submerge, have a spa or sauna/ice baths for a minimum of 4 weeks after your new tattoo.
• Do not apply fake tan over your new tattoo or expose the area to the sun whilst the tattoo is healing, ensure you wear 50+ sunscreen on the area if you are outdoors and make sure to wash the sunscreen off when you arrive home.
• Do not wax or shave the area for at least 4 weeks after your new tattoo has healed.
• During the healing process your new tattoo will begin to scab and peel, DO NOT pick any of the scabs/peeling skin off and do not scratch the area if itchy during this phase as this can cause pigmentation loss and in some cases permanent scarring.

Your artist may have placed second skin over your new tattoo as another form of protection opposed to plastic wrap. Second skin is designed to be worn for 2-7 days and is breathable and waterproof to a certain extent.

• You will notice the second skin may fill with fluid, is it important that you DO NOT puncture the film.
• You can shower as normal however avoid prolonged exposure to water, avoid direct high-pressure water on this area.
• It is still recommended to not swim, soak, submerge, have a spa or sauna/ice baths whilst wearing second skin as it may still enter the second skin.
• If you notice any signs of allergic reaction/s such as redness, swelling, itching or rash under the second skin it is important to remove the dressing immediately and contact the studio if necessary.
• Once the second skin begins to lift at the corners/edges or you have had the skin on for the recommended time frame you will need to remove whilst running under warm water, gently peel off the second skin starting at the edges. It is important to remove the second skin slowly under the running water to avoid skin irritation or damaging your new tattoo. Once removed, continue with normal aftercare instructions.