Simply

Heal Your Tattoo

There are many ways to care for your new tattoo; advice will vary depending on factors such as the size and placement of your tattoo, as well as your work environment and lifestyle. Your artist will give you personalized directions on how to heal your specific tattoo, and remember- you can always contact Incan Gem Body Art if you have any questions throughout the healing process! The following sections will further explain how our two types of bandages can be properly used to heal your tattoo. 


OCCLUSIVE BANDAGE

** These instructions may vary depending on the size and placement of your tattoo; always follow your artist’s directions. Also, blood and ink will collect underneath the bandage- this is totally normal. If you have any questions or concerns at any time, please contact us.  

1) Leave the first bandage on for 3 days. We recommend removing occlusive bandages in the shower or under warm running water with a mild unscented soap (we like Dr. Bronners and H2Ocean). With clean hands, gently peel off the bandage and throw it away. Then, gently clean off ink and blood residue from your tattoo and surrounding area. 

2) Let your tattoo and surrounding area air dry or pat dry with a paper towel. *Do not dry with a towel, they are not single use and can harbor bacteria. 

3) With clean hands, apply a very thin layer of lotion to your tattoo. Reapply lotion when necessary.

TRADITIONAL AFTERCARE

1) Leave the covering on for 2-4 hours OR until you can remove it under clean conditions (i.e. at home, with clean hands). The bandage is there to protect your tattoo while it’s still fresh and susceptible to bacteria. Once the bandage is removed, you won’t need to replace it. 

2) After you remove and dispose of the bandage, wash your hands thoroughly. Use your fingertips to gently clean your tattoo and the surrounding area with a mild, unscented, soap free of any dyes or harsh chemicals. (Products we like: Dr. Bronner’s (unscented), H2Ocean Foam Soap). 

3) Let your tattoo air dry. Do not pat dry with a paper towel (to avoid loose fibers) and do not dry with a towel (towels are not single use and can harbor bacteria). 

4) Once your tattoo is dry, gently apply a small amount of the ointment recommended by your artist. It’s very important to only apply a thin layer of ointment, you don’t want to smother your tattoo! After a few days your artist may recommend switching from ointment to lotion; make sure to follow their instructions. (Products we like: Lubriderm (unscented), Curel, Aveeno, Aquaphor, Aquatat, Vitalitree, Vitamin A&D, Coconut Oil). 

5) Continue to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized throughout the healing process, and make sure you only touch your tattoo with clean hands.