**A tattoo is an open wound. Using good hygiene practices and following these guidelines are important for the healing process. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your artist by calling or texting the shop at 740-990-7041 or emailing your artist**

**The majority of tattoos heal easily, but if you are deeply worried about the healing process and haven't been able to reach us, please follow up with a physician just to be safe**

Tattoo Care Using Occlusive Bandages

1. Leave the initial bandage on for 24 hours.
2. Remove the bandage by finding an edge and pulling it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. Warm, running water can help loosen the adhesive. Dry removal may be painful and can cause added trauma to the skin. In some cases, the bandage will stick more to certain people's skin, which can make it difficult to remove. The shower is an ideal place for removal.
3. Discard the used piece, and then thoroughly wash your tattoo with warm water and plenty of mild soap. Fragrance-free soap is preferred. Do not use bar soap. Use clean hands to wash away any buildup of fluid. Do not use a loofah, washcloth, etc. to wash your tattoo as these may harbor bacteria.
4. Pat the tattoo with clean paper towels until dry, and then allow a few additional minutes for air drying. Wet or moist skin will keep the bandage from adhering correctly.
5. Cut the new piece bandage to fit your tattoo, allowing for a one inch border around the edges. Peel off the white side of the bandage first, place the sticky side face down on the tattoo, and press gently. Make sure the tattoo is completely sealed off. It is okay to see some small air bubbles underneath.
6. Keep this second bandage on for 3-6 days. The full 6 days is best. If your skin appears irritated, there is extra fluid buildup, or the bandage is peeling off, it's okay to remove it sooner. If you lose the seal around the edges of the bandage anytime during those 6 days, you will need to replace it with a new bandage following the steps above. Water or excessive sweating may weaken the adhesive, which can allow unwanted contaminants to enter the bandage, putting you at higher risk for infection. Showering is fine. Avoid bathing or swimming. Avoid heavy sweating. Try to keep the bandage as clean and dry as possible until it's time to remove it.
7.  Remove the bandage as described in Step 2. If there is adhesive residue leftover on your skin, or you're having trouble loosening the bandage, coconut oil or baby oil might help with removal.
8. Continue caring for the tattoo by washing and moisturizing as needed. The initial healing process is done, but deeper layers of skin may take 2-4 months to completely heal, so moisturizing is important. Please email me a photo of your healed tattoo in 6-8 weeks.