Aftercare

Preparation

1. Gently clean and pat dry the tattoo and surrounding area. Make sure there is no soap or residue left on the skin.
2. Cut the Derm Shield to cover the tattooed area plus a 1 to 2 inch margin beyond the edge of the tattoo.
3. Peel off the backing and position the Derm Shield over the tattoo with the adhesive side facing the skin.
4. Apply using light pressure starting from the center and working toward the edges to eliminate air bubbles. Do not stretch the Derm Shield during application.

Wear Time

• The first Derm Shield application should stay in place for 24 hours depending on the level of exudation (fluid buildup). It is normal for blood and fluids to collect under the bandage.
• A second application can be used for several days. A third application may be used if necessary.
• Gently clean and dry the area between applications.
• Do not wear any piece longer than one week.

Removal

To remove, gently peel the Derm Shield by pulling it slowly from the edge back over itself. Avoid pulling upwards.

Caution

• For external use only. Use only as directed.
• Do not apply to infected wounds.
• This product contains adhesives and may cause allergic reactions in people with adhesive allergies.
• If an allergic reaction or irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately. Consult a physician if the reaction or irritation is severe.

Immediately After Your Session (Day 1)

1. Leave the initial plastic wrap or bandage your artist applied on for 1 to 3 hours.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
3. Remove the bandage.
4. Gently rinse the tattoo under lukewarm water to remove any blood plasma or excess ink.
5. Use your fingertips (no washcloths) and a fragrance free antibacterial soap to gently cleanse the area in circular motions.
6. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry completely. Do not rub.
7. Apply a very thin layer of fragrance free aftercare product. For the first few days, use ointment if preferred. Less is more. The tattoo should not look shiny.

Daily Routine (Days 1 to 14 or longer)

• Wash the tattoo 2 to 3 times a day.
• Pat dry and reapply a thin layer of the same moisturizer or ointment.
• Around day 4 or 5, most people switch fully to lotion if they started with ointment.
• Continue until the tattoo is no longer scabbing or peeling and feels like normal skin.

What to Expect and General Rules

• Normal healing signs include light oozing, redness, mild swelling, itching, and peeling around days 3 to 10. Do not pick or scratch.
• Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing. Change sheets and pillowcases daily and keep them clean.
• Avoid for 2 to 4 weeks: submerging in water (no baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes). Quick showers are fine. Avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds, saunas, steam rooms, excessive sweating or gyms, tight clothing, pets, dirt, or anything that could introduce bacteria.
• Products to use: fragrance free antibacterial soap and unscented lotion or ointment.

When to Contact Your Artist or a Doctor

• Signs of infection: increasing redness or swelling beyond the tattoo, pus, fever, severe pain, or foul odor.
• Allergic reaction: hives, blistering, or worsening rash. Stop the product and seek medical help.