Tattoo Preparation & Aftercare
Tattoo Preparation
To ensure the best possible experience and outcome for your large-scale tattoo project, please follow these guidelines carefully. Your preparation is key to a successful session!
Body and Skin Care:
•Hydration is Critical: Start drinking plenty of water at least one week prior to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin accepts ink more effectively.
•Moisturize the Area: Begin applying lotion to the area being tattooed at least one week before your session. Healthy, supple skin is easier to work on.
•Abstain from Alcohol: You must abstain from consuming alcohol for at least 72 hours (3 days) prior to your appointment. Alcohol can thin your blood and negatively impact the tattooing process and healing.
Rest and Nutrition:
•Prioritize Rest: Plenty of rest is key. Ensure you get adequate sleep the night before your appointment and on the nights between sessions (for multi-day projects).
•Eat Heavily: Have a heavy, substantial meal the night before and again the morning of your appointment. Do not come in on an empty stomach.
•Pack Food and Water: Bring lots of water and a variety of snacks for your sessions. For longer appointments, please also pack a lunch to maintain your energy and blood sugar levels.
Comfort and Entertainment:
•Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed and can tolerate a bit of ink.
•Bring Entertainment: Sessions can be long. Be sure to bring headphones, a book, a tablet, or anything else you need to entertain yourself and be comfortable.
Products at the Shop:
•When You Arrive: We have numbing cream available for you to buy for $50 to be applied to your area of skin that is being tattooed before the session begins. You do run the risk of getting lidocaine burns, poor heals, fade/change pigment of the colors. Use at your own discretion. Ironwood Tattoo Collective and artists are not liable for your use of numbing cream.
•When You Leave: Complimentary Tattoo Aftercare will be provided to you. Please follow the instructions given by your artist for the best healing process.
We are truly looking forward to working with you and bringing your vision to life! See you soon.
New Tattoo Aftercare Guide (Saniderm/Derm Shield Method)
Please follow these steps precisely to ensure optimal healing and protect your new tattoo.
Phase 1: Initial Application (Days 1–5)
• Initial Removal (After 24 Hours):
1. Leave the first application of your protective film (Saniderm/Derm Shield) on for a full 24 hours.
2. Get into the shower and let warm water run over the film.
3. Find an edge of the film and gently pull it back, allowing the running water to help loosen the adhesive and rinse away plasma/ink beneath it.
4. Completely remove the film.
• Cleaning:
1. Immediately and gently lather the tattooed area with unscented antibacterial soap (Gold Dial Soap).
2. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
3. Pat the area completely dry with a clean paper towel (do not use a cloth towel).
• Applying the Second Film:
1. Using a fresh isopropyl alcohol prep pad, lightly clean the entire tattooed area and the skin surrounding it to remove any remaining oils.
2. Let the alcohol dry completely for a moment.
3. Apply a new piece of Saniderm/Derm Shield, ensuring it covers the tattoo completely with a border of clean, dry skin.
4. Leave this second application on for five (5) full days.
Phase 2: Final Film and Removal (Days 6–10):
• Repeat Process (On Day 6):
1. Remove the second film using the same technique as above (in the shower, using running water).
2. Clean the tattoo thoroughly with unscented antibacterial soap.
3. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
4. Apply the third and final piece of Saniderm/Derm Shield.
5. Leave this final application on for another five (5) full days.
Phase 3: Open-Air Healing (Day 11 Onward):
• Washing (Starting Day 11):
1. Remove the final film and clean the tattoo using your unscented antibacterial soap.
2. Lather, rinse, and gently pat the area completely dry.
• Moisturizing:
1. Apply a very thin layer of unscented lotion (non-scented, dye-free) or a healing product like Aquaphor or Tattoo Healing Butter (you can buy at the shop).
2. Repeat the wash and moisturize process 3 to 5 times a day until the tattoo is fully healed.
General Healing Note: The tattoo should be visibly healed within approximately three weeks. Continue moisturizing as needed to keep the skin healthy.