Tattoo Care Basics
Derm Shield
If Derm Shield was used at the end of your tattoo.. leave the initial piece on for 24 hours. If a pocket of goo forms under the bandage, don’t fret! That’s totally normal! After the initial 24 hours, gently peel off the Derm Shield and wash the tattoo. Wash it with liquid antibacterial hand soap. Use luke warm water and your fingers. Never use a cloth rag, scrubby, or anything abrasive. Afterwards, pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry for about 10 minutes. The skin around the tattoo has to be very dry before applying the second piece. When applying the second piece, put it on like a sticker with minimal to no bubbles. You may need someone to help you depending on the location of the tattoo. The edges of the Derm Shield needs to cover over half an inch of skin beyond the edge of the tattoo to make sure it’s air tight! Leave the second piece on for 3-5 days. After removing the second piece, wash with antibacterial soap, pat dry, and apply a plain lotion. Apply lotion as needed daily. The tattoo should be fully healed in 2-3 weeks.
Traditional Healing
If a traditional bandage was used after your tattoo.. remove it after 2 hours. Wash the tattoo with liquid antibacterial hand soap, pat dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry for 10 minutes. Apply a thin layer of Crybaby after care or Aquaphor (this can be purchased in the pharmacy section of most major retailers). Wash your tattoo 1-2 times a day for 3-5 days and apply a very thin layer of Healing Balm or Aquaphor as needed to keep the tattoo slightly moist. After the tattoo begins to flake or peel, use a plain lotion as often as needed to keep it from drying out. The tattoo will be fully healed in 2-3 weeks.
For All Tattoos
Always keep your tattoos and the surrounding area as clean as possible. Never submerge your tattoos in a bath, pool, hot tub, etc. during the healing process.
Environmental Health for Carroll County
1004 Newnan Rd, Carrollton, GA
If you experience signs of an allergic reaction or an infection, please contact your health care provider.