Aftercare

If given a Derm bandage (Saniderm, dermsheild, etc) leave this on for 3-5 days.
Derms are safe to shower in. DO NOT swim, bathe or soak with the Derm.
Make sure no shower water leaks into the Derm or any fluids underneath the bandage leak out. If this happens, remove the Derm patch to avoid holding bacteria on your skin.
If at anytime the bandage peels back, exposing the tattoo or fluids begin to leak, it must be removed, cleaned and either replaced or continue healing traditionally.
If at any point you suspect you're having an allergic reaction to the Derm patch, remove it and continue healing traditionally.
Gently remove the Derm patch in the shower. I recommend allowing warm water to run over the patch for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.
Pull gently from a corner AWAY from the tattoo, not over. (Think of taking a command strip off the wall)
There may be an imprint of your tattoo on the Derm patch when removing, this is just excess ink that leaked out over the healing process.

After removing Derm patch, throughly clean with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water. (I recommend Dial Gold antibacterial soap)
Pat the tattoo dry with a fresh paper towel or let air dry.
Once the tattoo is completely dry, apply a very thin layer of ointment. I recommend Hustle Butter. You may also use any unscented lotions. (think like sunscreen, you want it on, but you don't want to see it)
Wash and moisturize tattoo once in the morning and once at night (more if you get the tattooed area dirty)
The tattoo may begin to flake 4-7 days after your appointment. Continue moisturizing with ointment or unscented lotion.
Your tattoo should be healed within 2-4 weeks.

My tattoo is hot, sore, and/or bruised. Yes! Some people don't feel any of these after a tattoo appointment, some experience mild symptoms, and some bodies have it a little tougher. Just prepare to take it easy in the days following your appointment.
My tattoo is leaking fluid! Yes, this is normal. After getting tattooed, your body is going to naturally send white blood cells and plasma due to your body's immune response. What you're seeing is plasma mixed with excess ink. This normally is a semi-fluid with a greenish-color due to the ink.
My tattoo is flaking or scabbing! Yes! A tattoo is basically a wound and is going to heal the same way a cut would. Just treat it with care.

Do not submerge your tattoo. No baths, swimming, hot tubs, saunas, etc. This is an easy way to get an infection and people have died from this.
Do not expose your fresh tattoo to the sun. Sunscreen is not safe while healing. Avoid sun exposure or tanning beds until your tattoo is fully healed.
DO not use Neosporin, Vaseline, or products with fragrances on your tattoo.
Do not exercise after your appointment. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3-5 days after your appointment.
Do not pick at your tattoo. Flaking or scabbing is a necessary part of the healing process. The more you mess with it, the longer the healing process will be and the risk of fall out increases.

Anytime your tattoo looks visibly dry, you may reapply a thin layer of ointment or lotion.
When showering, avoid putting your tattoo under the direct spray of water for an extended amount of time. This "softens" the healing layer and will extend your healing process.
Wash your tattoo last when in the shower. This ensures there is no body wash/shampoo residue left on your skin.
Tattoos will itch while healing. DO NOT scratch. Applying ointment or lotion will help alleviate the feeling.