Aftercare
Handpoked tattoos normally heal quicker and easier than machine tattoos as there's less damage to the skin. A handpoked tattoo might feel healed after 1-2 weeks, depending on the style.
If we have used second skin
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Leave the protective film for up to 7 days. Try and keep it on for at least 2 days and only remove early if you are having a reaction to the film, if the film leeks, or if it peels so that the tattoo ends up being exposed.
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Residue may build up in the film. This is very normal and is nothing to worry about.
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When you remove the second skin, do this under running water as it helps with the glue loosening up. Remember to keep it flat and stretch the film away from the tattoo. DO NOT remove in a waxing motion.
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Once the film is off, wash the area with a mild soap and rinse with warm water. Gently pat dry with paper towel (no normal towels as they can harbour bacteria) and after ca 10 minutes, apply a thin layer of a tattoo aftercare balm of your choice. A few options are Hustle Butter, Palmers unscented cocoa butter or coconut oil.
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From here, wash the tattoo twice a day, pat dry and moisturise whenever the tattoo feels dry. Remember less is more with the cream.
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When the tattoo is healing, it might itch and scab a little, but it's important to not pick or scratch the tattoo. You can instead moisturise the tattoo or gently slap it to help any itchiness. Make sure to wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
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Don't expose the healing tattoo to sun, swimming, bath/hot tub, sauna, heavy exercise that makes you sweat, unclean conditions or tight clothing for at least 2 weeks.
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Avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 3 weeks and once the tattoo is fully healed, always use high SPF when exposed to the sun.
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If we have used clingfilm (the first day)
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If you are allergic to plasters, it's likely that second skin isn't for you, therefor we would use clingfilm instead.
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Keep the clingfilm on for 2-3 hours.
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Once the clingfilm is off, wash with a mild soap and rinse with warm water.
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Gently pat dry the tattoo with a clean paper towel. Do not rub the tattoo or use normal towels as anything abrasive might affect the healing process.
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From here, wash twice a day and with clean hands, moisturise the tattoo whenever it feels dry. Tiny amount and more frequent is better than smothering the tattoo, as the tattoo needs to breathe to heal.
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After the first 24 hours
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Wash the tattoo twice a day for up to 10-14 days or until it's healed.
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Moisturise the tattoo whenever it feels dry, remember to wash your hands before touching it.
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Continue with the aftercare balm until the tattoo has completely healed.
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Your tattoo might peel, but don't scratch or pick as this will affect the healing process. Always wash your hands before touching a new tattoo.
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Don't expose the healing tattoo to swimming, bath/hot tub, sauna, heavy exercise that makes you sweat, unclean conditions or tight clothing for at least 2 weeks.
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Avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 3 weeks and once the tattoo is fully healed, always use high SPF when exposed to the sun.
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Some tips
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Once the second skin or clingfilm has come off, you can change your bed sheets and/or sleep in a clean cotton top/bottom, to ensure the tattoo's environment is clean.
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If the itchiness gets unbearable, besides moisturising, you can gently slap the area or carefully scratch around the tattoo, always with clean hands.
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Follow-up and touch-ups
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to me!
If you think you're in need of a touch-up, send me a message or email with a clear photo of the healed tattoos. I offer touch-ups for free and can book you in 1 month after you have gotten your tattoo.
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Even if you think the tattoo has healed perfectly, I always appreciate healed photos of the tattoo. This is helpful for both me (forever learning) and potential new clients that are looking to see how my tattoos heal.
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Hope you enjoy your new tattoo! :)​
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