AFTERCARE

Your tattoo is an investment, and proper aftercare plays a vital role in achieving the best possible result.

To ensure your tattoo heals correctly and retains its quality for years to come, please read our pre-care and aftercare instructions below. If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process, don't hesitate to contact our team.

Before Your Appointment

To help your appointment run smoothly and achieve the best result possible, please:

  • Eat a substantial meal before your appointment.
  • Stay well hydrated in the 24 hours leading up to your session.
  • Get a good night's sleep before your appointment.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.
  • Avoid recreational drugs before your appointment.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.
  • Moisturise your skin regularly in the weeks leading up to your appointment if it is dry.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure or sunburn on the area being tattooed.
  • Please advise your artist if you become unwell prior to your appointment.

What To Expect

Everyone heals differently, but these are all normal parts of the healing process. You may notice:

  • The area feeling a little sore or tender for the first couple of days.
  • Mild redness or swelling around the tattoo.
  • Small amounts of ink, blood, or clear fluid on the first day.
  • Feeling itchy as the skin begins to heal.
  • Peeling or flaking, similar to a sunburn.

Aftercare Instructions

Step One 
Before leaving the studio, your artist will apply either cling wrap or Second Skin to protect your new tattoo.

If your tattoo has been wrapped with cling wrap, leave it on for up to 24 hours. Once removed, gently wash the tattoo with warm water using clean hands only and carefully remove any traces of blood, plasma, or excess ink. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and do not rewrap the tattoo.

If your tattoo has been covered with Second Skin, leave it on for up to 5 days. If it begins to lift, leak, becomes damaged, or causes irritation, remove it sooner. Once removed, gently wash the tattoo with warm water using clean hands only and pat dry. 

Step Two 
After removing your dressing, wash the tattoo morning and night with warm water and keep the area clean.

Step Three
After 24-48 hours, gently wash the tattoo with Dr Pickles Tattoo Soap, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of aftercare balm. Repeat this process morning and night for approximately two weeks, or until the tattoo has fully healed.


Important Healing Tips

  • Ensure your bed sheets are clean.
  • Be mindful of hygiene around pets.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimise rubbing and irritation.
  • Avoid swimming pools, spas, oceans, rivers, and baths until fully healed.
  • Avoid excessive sweating where possible during the first few days.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure until the tattoo has healed.
  • Once healed, use SPF 50+ sunscreen to protect your tattoo and help prevent fading.
  • Do not pick, scratch, or pull off peeling skin, flakes, or scabs, as this may affect healing and ink retention. 

When To Contact Us

Please contact us if you experience:

  • Excessive redness that continues to worsen.
  • Significant swelling after the first few days.
  • Pus or unusual discharge.
  • Severe pain.
  • Signs of infection.
  • Any concerns regarding your healing process.

    If you have any questions regarding your tattoo or aftercare, please contact our team:
Contact our team here