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AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Initial Healing With Dermal Shield

SoulFire Tattoo Studio artists use several brands of dermal shield bandages. These protect your tattoo during the first stage of healing.


Keep the bandage on for 5 days

Fluid buildup under the bandage is normal. If the bandage becomes uncomfortable or you prefer to remove it earlier, you may remove it sooner.


Best Practices for Removing a Dermal Shield Bandage

To avoid irritation or damage to the healing tattoo, follow these guidelines when removing the bandage:

  • Remove the bandage slowly and gently, pulling it back over itself rather than straight up.

  • Peel the bandage in the direction of hair growth to reduce discomfort.

  • If the adhesive feels tight or painful, remove the bandage in a warm shower. The warm water helps loosen the adhesive and makes removal easier.

  • Do not rip or tear the bandage off quickly.

  • Once removed, discard the bandage and proceed directly to washing the tattoo.



After Removing the Bandage


Wash your hands, then gently wash the tattoo

Use:

  • Antibacterial Dial Liquid Soap

  • Hands only (no washcloths, sponges, or scrubbing tools)


Pat dry

  • Use a clean or older towel

  • Dab, do not rub

  • Allow the tattoo to air‑dry for 10–20 minutes


Apply a very thin layer of lotion

Approved lotions:

  • Cetaphil

  • Lubriderm

  • Aveeno

Must be unscented and free of dyes or perfumes.


Repeat Steps 2–4

Repeat two to three times per day for two weeks or until the tattoo is fully healed.



During the Healing Process


Avoid direct sunlight

Keep the tattoo out of the sun while healing. Once healed, always apply sunblock to protect the tattoo’s color and longevity.


Do not submerge the tattoo

Avoid pools, hot tubs, baths, lakes, and oceans during the healing period. Showers are fine.


Do not pick at the tattoo

Flaking and peeling are normal. Picking can cause color loss, scarring, or patchy healing.


Do not slap, pat, or scratch the tattoo

If it itches, apply a thin layer of lotion or gently tap around (not on) the area.


Questions or Concerns?


If you have any questions or concerns regarding the healing process, please contact us:


Phone: 708‑613‑5188   Email: SoulFireTattoosOP@gmail.com



Piercing Aftercare Instructions

General Healing Expectations


Healing times vary depending on the piercing location, your body, and your aftercare routine. Most piercings take 6–12 weeks to form an initial heal, and some may take 6–12 months to fully mature.


During healing, it is normal to experience:

  • Mild redness

  • Slight swelling

  • Clear or pale yellow lymph discharge

  • Tenderness


These are not signs of infection. They are part of the healing process.



Daily Cleaning Instructions


Wash your hands thoroughly

Always clean your hands before touching your piercing.


Clean the piercing twice a day

Use one of the following:

  • Sterile saline wound wash (preferred)

  • Pre‑made piercing aftercare spray

  • A saline solution made from ¼ teaspoon non‑iodized sea salt + 1 cup warm distilled water


Do not use:

  • Alcohol

  • Hydrogen peroxide

  • Neosporin

  • Harsh soaps

  • Scented products


How to clean

  • Spray or soak the area with saline

  • Gently remove any dried lymph with a clean cotton pad

  • Do not twist, rotate, or move the jewelry

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel (not a cloth towel)



What to Avoid During Healing


Do not touch or twist the jewelry

This delays healing and introduces bacteria.


Avoid submerging the piercing

No pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, or baths during the healing period. Showers are safe.


Avoid makeup, lotions, and hair products near the piercing

These can cause irritation or infection.


Avoid sleeping on the piercing

Especially for ear piercings. Pressure can cause bumps, migration, or prolonged swelling.


Avoid changing the jewelry too soon

Only change jewelry once the piercing is fully healed. If unsure, contact SoulFire Tattoo Studio for guidance.



Oral Piercing Aftercare (If Applicable)


Rinse after eating or drinking

Use an alcohol‑free mouthwash or a warm saline rinse.


Avoid

  • Smoking

  • Alcohol

  • Spicy foods

  • Kissing or oral contact


Expect

  • Swelling for the first 3–5 days

  • A longer barbell to accommodate swelling (we will downsize later)


Signs of Normal Healing vs. Concern


Normal

  • Clear or pale yellow discharge

  • Mild swelling

  • Tenderness

  • Itching


Contact SoulFire Tattoo Studio if you notice

  • Thick green or dark yellow discharge

  • Severe swelling

  • Heat radiating from the area

  • Red streaks

  • Fever

  • Jewelry embedding into the skin


Questions or Concerns?


If you have any questions or concerns regarding the healing process, please contact us:


Phone: 708‑613‑5188   Email: SoulFireTattoosOP@gmail.com

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