Aftercare Instructions

TATTOO AFTERCARE

We use a variety of bandages at Inked to satisfy the needs of our clientele. Some people may have an allergy or other mitigating circumstance and require differing care. Your artist will go over care for the specific method used to cover your new tattoo.

Saniderm - This is our standard tattoo covering. Everyone heals differently, and the length of time will vary depending on how much fluid your tattoo is weeping. When the adhesion of the Saniderm bandage begins to weaken, that’s your cue to remove or replace the bandage. If you notice excessive weeping or fluid under your currently applied piece of Saniderm, it’s okay to carefully replace it with a new one. Regardless of how much fluid build-up you experience, you should always change the initial film at the 24-hour mark to clean the area. Once you’ve applied the second bandage, it can be worn for up to 3 days.

Sterile bandage - An absorbent sterile pad(s) generally held on with medical tape and or cohesive wrap. Leave this type of bandage on for 1-2 hours then carefully remove bandage. Wash with hands not a rag with a warm soapy water making sure to clean any dried blood off. Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor to your new tattoo, generally a pea sized drop is plenty. Reapply as needed until healed, which is generally 1-2 weeks.

PIERCING AFTERCARE

At our shop, we take pride in using only Implant Grade 23 Titanium ASTM F-136 (Ti 6Al-4V-Eli) for all initial piercings. This material is hypoallergenic, biocompatible, and designed to promote optimal healing with minimal risk of irritation. Below is a guide to care for your new piercing, grouped by their average healing times.

Piercing Healing Times & Care Instructions

4-6 Weeks Healing Time

• Earlobes

• Eyebrow

Care Instructions:

• Clean gently with a saline solution 2-3 times a day.

• Avoid twisting or turning the jewelry.

• Keep hair, makeup, and skincare products away from the piercing area.

2-3 Months Healing Time

• Lip (Labret, Monroe)

• Nostril

Care Instructions:

• Rinse mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash after eating (for oral piercings).

• For nostril piercings, use a saline spray to cleanse, and avoid blowing your nose excessively.

• Be cautious of jewelry snags on clothing or during eating.

4-6 Months Healing Time

• Helix/Cartilage

• Septum

Care Instructions:

• Gently clean with saline or a saline-soaked cotton pad 2-3 times daily.

• Avoid sleeping on the piercing or applying pressure.

• Septum piercings may need to be gently cleaned inside the nose with saline. Do not twist the jewelry unnecessarily.

6-12 Months Healing Time

• Navel

• Industrial

Care Instructions:

• Clean with saline solution and ensure to wash your hands before touching the piercing.

• Avoid tight clothing that may rub against or irritate the piercing.

• Be cautious during physical activities like exercise or stretching.

12+ Months Healing Time

• Nipple

• Genital Piercings (Prince Albert, Christina, etc.)

Care Instructions:

• Clean with saline solution 2-3 times a day.

• Be mindful of the area during physical activity and intimate contact. Use barriers (like condoms) if applicable to prevent infection during healing.

• Avoid submerging these piercings in pools, lakes, or hot tubs until fully healed.

General Piercing Care Tips

1. Cleaning: Always clean your piercing using a sterile saline solution or a saline wound wash. Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps.

2. Avoid Touching: Do not touch or rotate the jewelry unless necessary, and always wash your hands before doing so.

3. No Submersion: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans during the healing period.

4. Clothing: Avoid tight or restrictive clothing that can rub or irritate the piercing site.

5. Jewelry Changes: Do not change your jewelry until your piercing is fully healed unless advised by a professional.

We Are Here to Help

Our experienced technicians performed your piercing using sterile techniques to ensure the safest process possible. Now, it’s up to you to take care of it properly. If you experience any problems or have questions about aftercare, please call us. We are more than happy to assist you.

However, if you notice any signs of severe infection—such as extreme redness, swelling, fever, or discharge—please contact a physician immediately.

Thank you for trusting us with your piercing! We are committed to ensuring you have the best experience and smooth healing. If you need any further advice, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Aftercare Instructions

TATTOO AFTERCARE

PIERCING AFTERCARE

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