​METHOD TWO: ARMOR GEL

You will need for aftercare: plain white paper towels (no colorful patterns), Softsoap brand hand soap (clear with a fish on the bottle), Lubriderm hand lotion (Normal/Dry Skin formula; no fragrance or medication), Armor Gel barrier gel (can be found at CVS, online, or can be purchased through me at cost)
·Wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day, more so if it comes into contact with something or someone

·Wash your hands before touching your tattoo. Rinse, relather with the Softsoap, and gently wash your tattoo. Rinse with
cool water and pat dry with a paper towel

·Apply the Armor Gel AFTER washing and BEFORE lotion. Use the Armor Gel once after each washing, and apply
just enough to cover the tattoo itself and .5”-1” around the tattooed area. Let it airdry for a couple minutes

·Apply the Lubriderm after the washing and Armor Gel. Use tiny amounts as needed through the healing process (a
pea-sized amount unless instructed otherwise; pat off any excess with a paper towel), Depending on the time of year or
the air inside your home/workplace, your tattoo may feel dry and tight; as this occurs, you may apply another tiny
amount of lotion between washings. ALWAYS wash your hands before applying lotion between tattoo washings!
·Continue this routine until your tattoo is done peeling and looks like normal skin again.  

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE HEALING PROCESS

If you are following Method Two, you may find clear fluid build up on the skin over the first few hours. Within a few days your tattoo will start peeling, although minor scabbing can sometimes occur depending on location. Itching is normal during peeling and can be relieved with lotion, an ice pack, or soft patting. Once your tattoo is completely done peeling, your epidermis has healed enough to return to your normal routine. Your dermis will continue to heal over the next few weeks however, and you may notice some cloudiness in the color, skin sensitivity, and/or some itching during this time.
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​If symptoms develop beyond what was explained as a normal healing response to your tattoo, such as redness, drainage, or a rash - seek medical attention and let me know.

WHAT TO EXPECT SPECIFICALLY WITH SCAR COVER-UPS

In addition to the above, your scars may be especially raised or swollen for the next few days. This will dissipate. Thicker scar tissue may require a second pass to ensure color is fully saturated. If it looks like this may be the case once your tattoo is done peeling, let me know and I'll be happy to schedule a touch-up session.

WHAT NOT TO DO DURING THE HEALING PROCESS
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Do not let others touch your fresh tattoo or expose it to unclean conditions.
Do not apply scented soaps or lotions
Do not use bar soap, sponges, loofahs, or cloth towels.
Do not expose your tattoo to sunlight or use tanning beds.
Do not swim or take baths.
Do not apply ointments not listed in your aftercare or apply plastic wrap
Do not pick, peel, or scratch your tattoo.
Do not expose your tattoo to pets and pet hair. Watch out for concerned pets attempting to lick your tattoo
Do not ask friends or search the internet for advice – contact me if you have any questions  

LONG TERM CARE

UV light is the number one thing that will cause premature fading of a tattoo! In addition, many tattoo inks contain photosensitive pigment compouds that, once broken down by UV, can cause a phototoxicity reaction ranging from raised blisters and itching to far more serious. Black ink tattoos will become noticeably hot from excessive sun exposure and can also cause an acute raised, itchy reaction. Always keep your tattoo protected from the sun; apply a high SPF sunscreen (mineral sunscreen is best) to your tattoo any time it will be exposed, and keep it out of the sun as much as possible.​

To keep your tattoo looking its best, apply moisturizer daily.