Aftercare | Paper Doll Tattoo

How to care for your fresh tattoo

Good aftercare is crucial for the longevity and health of your tattoo.

If your artist used a second skin bandage:

Wait 24 hours to remove the bandage, unless the seal is broken, the bandage is leaking, or if the bandage is causing unusual irritation or swelling to the skin. It is normal for blood, ink, and fluid to collect under the bandage!

Under warm (not hot!) running water, carefully lift a corner of the bandage and slowly pull, moving your hand along the skin (not out!). If you are having trouble removing the bandage, use some gentle soap to carefully loosen the adhesive. Once the bandage is fully removed, wash gently with an antimicrobial soap and follow up with a lightweight unscented moisturizer.

If your artist used plastic wrap and athletic tape:

Once you are home or in a clean place, carefully remove the plastic wrap and tape. Wash gently with an antimicrobial soap and follow up with a lightweight unscented moisturizer.

For the first 3-5 weeks:

Wash your tattoo with antimicrobial soap 3-5 times a day. Pat your tattoo dry gently with a paper towel (not a reusable towel or rag). Apply a thin layer of moisturizer.
Do not scratch or slap your tattoo. Do not allow anyone else to touch your tattoo while it is healing, and only touch your tattoo with clean hands!
Do not submerge the tattoo in water (no hot-tubs, swimming pools, rivers, lakes, baths, etc!). Showers are fine, but try not to use scalding hot water!
Monitor your tattoo for signs of infection (heat, swelling, redness, fever, or pus). Flakiness, itchiness, and irritation are completely normal for the first few weeks of the healing process. If you notice unusual healing symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. If you have an infection, feel free to let us know so that we can address the issue on our end!

Products we recommend:

Soap: Dial Gold, Cerave Gentle Face Cleanser