Care of your tattoo
Once you have chosen an artist to do your tattoo it is best to follow their aftercare instructions.
Offering tattoo aftercare advice is essential to us. A tattoo artist can only guarantee their work if it is taken care of in the manner they suggest. Eternal Alchemy Tattoo uses and recommends Mad Rabbit and Hustle Butter Products which we have on hand to purchase for your convenience.
A tattoo is considered an open wound. Keep it as clean as possible. Contamination of the area or poor hygiene can lead to possible infection. We currently use Recovery Brand derma shield for the bandage, this will stay on for 24 hours after the completion of the tattoo. It will completely seal in the area with a breathable protective barrier.
Wash your hands before removing the bandage. After you remove the bandage wash your tattoo carefully with a soap for sensitive skin that is free of dyes and perfumes. After washing your tattoo gently pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
With clean hands apply a thin layer of Soothing Gel or lotion to your tattoo. Gently massage the small amount of product into your skin. DO NOT smother your tattoo with too much product. In order to heal properly your skin must be able to breathe. Keep the product light.
For the next two days wash your tattoo in the same manner. Continue using aftercare product as needed ( when it feels dry tight or itchy) for the duration of the heal 2-3 weeks. Make sure anything that comes into contact with your tattoo is clean. This includes towels, sheets, clothing and especially your hands. Washing your tattoo two or three times per day will suffice, unless the cleanliness of your tattoo has been compromised. Avoid over washing your tattoo. This will only lead to skin irritation.
The healing time differs from person to person, but is usually between two-three weeks. The tattoo will flake and peel much like a sunburn while it heals. This is normal. DO NOT pick at the tattoo! Some people find that after flakes have fallen off, an opaque film may be left that hides some of the color in their tattoo. This film is the new skin growing over the tattoo and should clear up in a few weeks.
Itching is to be expected during the healing process. DO NOT scratch or pick your tattoo! Applying lotion regularly will help with the itch.
While your tattoo is healing do not fully submerged the area in water. You can shower, but do not allow the water to beat heavily on the tattoo. Do not shave the tattooed area or use scented body wash for three weeks. Likewise, avoid baths, direct sunlight, saunas, and hot tubs for three weeks. Do not swim in pools or the ocean while your tattoo is still healing. Chlorine and salt water can negatively affect your healing process.
If you suspect an infection please contact your physician. If you aren't sure, come in and let us take a look at it.
