Let’s talk aftercare!

You’ll need:
-unscented/uncolored basic soap & lotion that are familiar to you (aka you have used/patch tested and have not reacted to)
-a fresh piece of paper towel

If you left with a clear adhesive bandage (Dermshield):

1. Wear your bandage for the next 48-72 hours. (It is “waterproof” in that wearing it in the shower should not affect it’s efficacy, but swimming or bathing in it is not a good idea.) IF you notice any redness/itchiness/irritation while wearing your bandage, please remove ASAP and begin the following steps. Reactions are rare and should resolve without further intervention once the bandage is off your skin.

2. If possible, hop in the shower, do your whole shower routine and remove at the end by finding an edge and ideally pulling/stretching down and away from your skin (like removing a 3m strip). If you’re not taking a shower, no worries, just wash your hands and remove as described above. It is very common to notice a red patch where your bandage had been pre-removal… you’ve just removed a medical grade adhesive from your skin so it’s normal for your skin to be a little angry.

3. Hand wash with a gentle, uncolored/unscented soap. Rinse your skin by splashing water onto your tattoo or letting water run down your body towards your tattoo- I advise against direct water pressure on a freshly un-bandaged tattoo. If using a highly concentrated soap (like liquid Dr. Bronners) please dilute with some water before use.

4. Grab your piece of paper towel and gently pat your tattoo dry ( you will not need to do this again in the future- just this first time after bandage removal).

5. Apply your moisturizer, a pea sized amount of an unscneted/uncolored body lotion or natural product (coconut oil/shea butter) that you are familiar with. I recommend something simple and basic like: Aveeno, Cerave, Dove, etc. and do not advise Aquaphor be used on my tattoos. Continue to moisturize 1-2 times a day for the next week (but also for life!!!! moisturizing and drinking water are your tattoo’s/skin’s BFF!!)
6. You know your body best- if you have a healing process of your own that works, trust that. If you have any concerns at all I am here for you- please do not hesitate to reach out and we can discuss further! I am your best healing resource!!

If you left with a black bandage:

1. Wear your bandage until right before going to bed at night or first thing in the morning (whatever we discussed in person).

2. Wash your hands, remove the colored wrap and the black bandage

4. Grab your piece of paper towel and gently pat your tattoo dry ( you will not need to do this again in the future- just this first time after bandage removal).

Reminders for ALL new tattoos!

You have 1 chance to heal a new tattooo- how you treat your body during this time will absolutely contribute to your tattoo’s integrity. Water, quality sleep, nutritious food, less stress, are all helpful as you heal your tattoo (aka WOUND). Your tattoo will heal even if life is chaotic and messy, but if you need a reminder to be kind and gentle with yourself, this is it!

No baths/spas/saunas/swimming for 7-10 days after being tattooed!!

No sunscreen (on your tattoo) for 14 days after being tattooed. (You can cover with a bandana, item of clothing, a large blister bandage if out in the sun)

Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, I am your best resource, please reach out!! contact@kellikikcio.com or reply to our email thread :)