We recommend Hustle Butter or Pursan, both vegan options are available at Liquid Amber.
For those with very dry skin who may be sensitive to Hustle Butter, we offer Bepanthen (non-vegan), upon recommendation by your artist.
Unscented Soap:
We recommend PurSan Soap
Use unscented soap to gently clean your tattoo during the first 1-3 days, can vary depending on the advice of your artist.
Paper Towels
You’ll need a clean roll at home to pat dry your tattoo (not available at Liquid Amber).
Avoid towels as they can carry bacteria.
REST
Plan to go straight home after your tattoo session. Treat your tattoo like an open wound that needs care and rest.
Step by step Aftercare Bandage Instructions for ‘regular’ bandage.
After your session, your tattoo will be bandaged. Remove the bandage after 3-5 hours, do not re-bandage for the remainder of the healing process.
Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and soap before touching your tattoo.
Remove the bandage after 3-5 hours (confirm timing with your artist). If it sticks, moisten it with warm water for easier removal.
Apply a pump of PurSan soap to your clean hands and gently wash the tattoo with warm water until it no longer feels slimy.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel—avoid using towels as they may harbor bacteria.
For the first 3 days, wash your tattoo as needed to remove moisture or "weeping." Allow your tattoo to dry fully before applying a small amount of unscented moisturizer.
After day 3, you may notice some flakiness and itching. Continue to moisturize 2-3 times per day with a recommended moisturizer.
If Your Tattoo Is Covered with a ‘Saniderm’ Bandage
About:
Saniderm is a waterproof, breathable bandage worn for 2-5 days. It protects your tattoo from contaminants and allows it to heal in a controlled environment.
When removing Saniderm, do so with clean hands in a sterile environment, like the shower. Follow standard aftercare instructions once removed.
While wearing Saniderm, avoid excessive sweating, hot tubs, saunas, pools, and sun exposure. Follow this five-point check:
No Leaks: If any ink, plasma, or blood leaks from the bandage’s edges, remove it immediately.
No Water In: Avoid direct water contact on the bandage in the shower; if water gets in, remove the bandage.
No Sun: Sunlight can cause burns under the bandage—avoid sun exposure.
No Redness/Itching: If you notice redness or irritation around the bandage edges, remove it, as it may indicate sensitivity to the adhesive.
5. No Lifting: If the bandage lifts and exposes your tattoo, remove it to prevent bacteria from entering.
Aftercare Essentials: Do’s and Don’ts
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your tattoo out of the sun for at least 2 weeks. Once healed, always apply sunscreen to prevent fading.
No Soaking: Refrain from submerging your tattoo in water for the first 2 weeks. Only rinse as needed for cleaning.
No Picking or Scratching: Allow scabs to fall off naturally to preserve the ink.
Wear Loose Clothing: Choose breathable, loose-fitting garments that won’t rub or irritate the tattoo.
Stay Hygienic: Don’t touch your tattoo with unwashed hands, and avoid gyms, bars, and hospitals in the first few days, as these can carry bacteria.
Nutrition & Hydration: Support healing with proper hydration and nutrients.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Always use clean hands to apply lotions, and never touch the pump or bottle openings to prevent contamination.
Products and Ingredients to Avoid
Petroleum-based products (e.g., Vaseline), aloe vera, tea tree oil, Neosporin, Polysporin, and Preparation-H, as these can clog pores, irritate, or dry out the tattoo.
If you notice signs of infection, stop all aftercare, contact us, and consult a physician.
Following these steps can help ensure your tattoo heals beautifully! If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to us for further guidance.
