Tattoo Aftercare

Congrats on your new tattoo!
the utmost care was applied when creating your tattoo, now it's time for you to heal.
I've noted 2 different instructions, depending on whether I have applied a dressing (second skin) or cling wrap.
Further below instructions apply to BOTH methods.
Please read carefully & should you have any questions, please get in touch.

instructions for second skin use:
*leave dressing on for 3 x days
*remove the dressing after 3 x days
to do so, with clean dry hands, gently lift an edge furthest from your body. Use a stretching technique, stretching the dressing completely off
*Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm mild soap. Pat completely dry with paper towel
*Allow 24-48hrs before applying aftercare cream (see further below AFTERCARE)
things to note with a dressing: 
An ink sack might appear. Whilst it looks gross, it's completely normal & won't affect your tattoo.
If water has got into the dressing, immediately follow the steps noted above for removing the dressing

instructions for cling wrap use:
*leave cling wrap on for 1x hour
*remove the cling wrap after 1 x hour, using clean dry hands, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water & mild soap. Pat completely dry with paper towel.
*Allow 24-48hrs before applying aftercare cream (see below AFTERCARE)

AFTERCARE 
Tattoo healing may vary. Generally 4 weeks. During that time, your tattoo will scab & become itchy, DON'T PICK AT YOUR TATTOO.
It is important to avoid the following until the scab has left on it's own:
*don't immerse your tattoo in water, such as (but not limited to) baths, spas, swimming pools
*avoid harsh or direct sunlight

 DO-
*Aftercare cream should only be applied with clean dry hands, in a thin & even application, to a clean & dry tattoo, once/twice a day
*When showering, follow the washing instructions, pat completely dry with papertowel. Don't use your regular towel as it may be too abrasive & it runs the risk of cross contamination
*stay hydrated

Should your skin continue to swell or should you have any unusual symptoms, keep your cool & talk to a heath care professional. It's not a time to '"dr google" as it might interfere with your healing.

For long term care once your tattoo is fully healed, you can continue with aftercare cream or your regular moisturising routine.
When sun exposure is unavoidable, you should either cover your tattoo with longer garments,  be in a shaded area & apply SPF