The Ultimate Aftercare Guide For Clients

It’s been made apparent that there is no resource guide for clients to refer to after they come in for a tattoo at Rebel Ink in Queens New York. There’s a unique rush that comes with the completion of a new tattoo. As you get up to admire the fresh ink that now adorns your body, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. This pivotal moment, filled with adrenline and relief, can also be a critical juncture. In the mix of emotions, it's common for clients to find it challenging to focus on the aftercare instructions provided by their artist. Thats why I decided to make an aftercare bible for you guys. Recognizing the importance of these guidelines and how they can dramatically affect the healing process, I’ve decided to create this guide. It's designed to serve as a clear, easy-to-follow reference for ensuring that your tattoo not only heals well but retains its beauty and vibrancy over time. By emphasizing the client's responsibility to follow these aftercare steps, we aim to bridge the gap between the exhilaration of getting a new tattoo and the practicalities of aftercare. So, whether you're still riding high on that tattoo euphoria or simply looking for a comprehensive aftercare guide, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the ultimate aftercare instructions to keep your ink looking pristine, right here in the heart of Queens’ tattoo epicenter.

before we get started, please note that the aftercare advice provided in this guide is tailored to my specific style of tattooing and the typical procedures followed at Rebel Ink in Ozone Park. I am also not a doctor and none of this is medical advice. It's important to understand that aftercare recommendations can vary depending on the style of tattoo, the technique used, and individual artist preferences. While this guide aims to be a comprehensive resource, always prioritize the personalized instructions given to you by your tattoo artist immediately after your session. If you have any concerns or questions about your tattoo’s healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist for advice. with that said you will need two products: a fresh tube of Aquaphor (it has to be brand new), and a bottle of Dial Gold Antibacterial Soap

Available at most pharmacies and convenience store

Lets jump in:

Upon Completion
Immediately after your tattoo session, I will wrap your new piece in a protective bandage. I use a product called Recovery Derm. This is a medical-grade adhesive bandage that creates a barrier against bacteria and helps the tattoo heal by locking in the body’s natural moisture and healing enzymes. This bandage is waterproof and can be showered with but not submerged as if you were taking a bath. I like this product because it is elastic and can stretch and move with the body where other brands like saniderm and tegaderm have had issues in the past. It’s important to take this bandage off after 24 hours. the body’s plasma can dry underneath and when the bandage is removed a layer of pigment often gets removed with it. to take the bandage off you will first turn on your water source and let it warm,wash your hands with the dial gold soap, run the bandage under warm water and slowly peel the bandage from the bottom corner downwards. do not rip off like a bandaid. It’s important to go slow and let the adhesive release.

Recovery Derm being applied

Once the bandage is removed
After the bandage is removed DO Not dry with anything. I say thins to clients because often its impossible to know if whatever you chose to dry it with is clean. Often clients opt to remove the bandage in their bathroom shower and the bath towels on the wall may have been used to dry the hands of someone who just used the restroom. its better to just let it air dry. this a critical time during the tattoo. healing process the tattoo is fresh and does not have a protective barrier. the goal now is to let the tattoo dry. when the tattoo looks dried out it is now time to apply a PEA sized amount of Aquaphor to the tattoo. Clients may make the crucial mistake of over moisturizing their tattoos. If one uses too much moisturizer they can lock in bacteria and create the perfect environment for infection. I apply a pea sized amount to the back of my hand and take my index finger to smash the ointment and tap it onto the tattoo until it looks like your normal lever of moisturized skin.

Tap the Aquaphor on in this manner

24 Hours to 2 Weeks
It’s possible for the tattoo to begin to peel and shed damaged layers of skin. Peeling is completely normal during this period. The tattoo can look rough and may even scab. It is imperative that you do not pick or scratch at the tattoo. Ink can be removed or skin may even scar if it is picked at. Infections can occur if scratched. You will wash the tattoo at a minimum of two times a day to keep in clean. Follow the same protocol of washing your hands, gently washing the tattoo and air drying. the tattoo may take on a more faded look because the new layers of skin are growing over the artwork and its not unlike looking through a tinted window. The pigment of your skin will change the vibrancy and depth of the artwork. It happens to all tattoos and part of the process.

DONTS

Here are somethings to avoid in once the bandage is removed

1. Stay away from pets that like to jump on you or rub up against the tattoo. An excited dog that may jump on you when you walk in the door can easily scratch the fresh tattoo and introduce bacteria that will cause infection. Likewise a cat can pick up dirt and bacteria in its fur may decide to rub up against your fresh tattoo.

2. Infants run a similar risk. They may touch the floor and then touch the tattoo

3. No swimming! The fastest way catch an infection is to swim in a body of water that can harbor bacteria. Hot tubs, Pools, rivers, ocean are all big no no’s

4. The gym can pose an infection risk. gym equipment carries staph bacteria and is often not sanitized. if you must go to the gym during this period make sure the tattoo is covered and does not come in contact with equipment or the floor of the gym.

5. Frequently change bedding. Always have fresh linens on your bed when going to sleep. dirty sheets can pose a risk of infection

6. Stay away from heavy sunlight. A sunburn on a fresh tattoo can damage a tattoo and drastically change how it heals.

7. Work place chemicals and dirt. Know the risks of what you come in contact with in the workplace and ensure that the tattoo does not come in contact with them. if you must take some time away to ensure this does not sabotage your healing protocol, it will be worth it.

2 Weeks to 6 Weeks
If you follow this protocol the odds are in your favor that your tattoo will heal without issue. The tattoo may start to have a certain shine to the texture of the skin and once this dissipates the tattoo is healed and will stay this way for years to come. If any issues arise at any point in this process you should reach out to your artist and ask any relevant questions. They will be happy that you did.

Congrats your tattoo is now healed!

If you are curious what your tattoo idea might cost feel free to fill out my booking form for a free consultation

or come say Hi at REBEL INK. 107-06 CROSS BAY BLVD. OZONE PARK, NY 11417