Aftercare Instructions

Healing with Recovery Derm Shield 

Your tattoo will be covered by a breathable bandage that is clear and waterproof. The bandage should be left on for 3-4 days. You may or may not have fluid build up underneath the bandage. This is normal. This is blood, ink, and plasma.

Removing Recovery Derm Shield

Gently remove the Recovery Derm Shield after 3-4 days under warm running water, preferably in the shower. Peel from the top, and let water run into the bandage while pulling downwards. 

With clean hands, gently wash your tattoo with a liquid antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel. 

Apply a small amount of unscented lotion to the tattoo daily for the next 2-3 weeks, until the tattoo is fully healed. Do not over apply lotion, but keep the tattoo moisturized any time it starts to feel dry. 

There is no need to apply Aquaphor if you are using the Recovery Derm Shield to heal your tattoo.

Traditional Healing

Your tattoo will be covered and protected with a bandage before you leave the shop. Remove the bandage after 2 hours with clean hands and gently wash your tattoo with a liquid antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel.

Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor to the tattoo a few times a day for the next 2-3 days.

After 2-3 days you can apply a small amount of unscented lotion to the tattoo daily for the next 2-3 weeks, until the tattoo is fully healed. Do not over apply lotion, but keep the tattoo moisturized any time it starts to feel dry.

*Remove the Recovery bandage if it causes any discomfort or irritation such as pain, redness, itching, or blistering. Then follow the traditional method of healing your tattoo. 

*Remove the Recovery bandage if it tears, if the edges roll up to the point that the tattoo is exposed, or water gets underneath. Then follow the traditional method of healing your tattoo.

*Do not submerge your tattoo in water for the first 2-3 weeks until your tattoo is fully healed.

*Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight for the first 2-3 weeks until your tattoo is fully healed.

*Your tattoo will flake and itch while healing. Do not pick or scratch at your tattoo.

*Your new tattoo is an open wound. Keep it clean and protected. If you notice any signs of infection such as swelling, warmth, pain and/or redness that worsens, yellowish or greenish discharge, chills or a fever, inform your artist and seek immediate medical attention from your healthcare provider.