Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the healing process is smooth and your tattoo looks great for years to come. Please follow the instructions below carefully to avoid any complications.
Tip 1
Remove Saniderm bandage within 3-24 hours, depending on how your wound is weeping. It is fine if there is some blood/plasma/lymph fluid buildup under the bandage during this period, but do not leave on for more than 24 hours. The shower is the ideal place to remove bandages.
Tip 2
Wash your hands with antibacterial soap, and gently wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Air dry or pat dry very well with a paper towel; DO NOT SCRUB.
Tip 3
If you decide to keep using Saniderm, reapply a fresh bandage and leave on for the next 3-6 days. After the second Saniderm bandage is removed, repeat Step 2 and then keep the tattooed area moisturized well with an unscented lotion for at least 2 weeks. Do not reapply any more bandages after the scabbing/flaking phase of your tattoo healing has begun.
Tip 4
If not using Saniderm, apply a thin layer of Griffin Salve, Hustle Butter, or Aquaphor after removing the initial bandage; just enough to cover the area without creating a thick layer. Repeat 3 times per day for the first 3 days. After the 3rd day, keep the tattooed area moisturized well with an unscented lotion for at least 2 weeks.
Tip 5
Avoid sun exposure, sun burning, soaking underwater for at least the first 2-3 weeks. Afterwards, apply sunblocks and lotions liberally for continued care of your tattoo. As well, DO NOT pick or scratch at any scabbing that may occur as your tattoo heals. Allow scabs and flakes to fall away on their own.
Please Note
If the tattooed site becomes infected or painful, or if you develop a fever shortly after being tattooed, seek immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of infection include a rash, redness, or bumps in the tattooed area, purulent drainage (pus), worsening swelling of the tattooed area, increasing pain, fever, shaking, chills, or sweats.
Walk-ins are always welcome during operating hours!
We are open Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturdays from 11 AM to 7 PM, and closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Legal Requirements for Tattooing in Michigan
Please don't hesitate to ask your tattoo artist if you have any concerns or questions about the aftercare instructions or any other aspect of the tattooing process. It's important to follow the aftercare instructions carefully to ensure proper healing of your tattoo and to minimize the risk of infection or other complications.
Public Act 375
Enacted in December 2010, mandates that individuals shall not tattoo, brand, or perform body piercing on another individual unless the tattooing, branding, or body piercing occurs at a body art facility licensed by the Michigan Department of Community Health. Body art facilities are required to be in compliance with the "Requirements for Body Art Facilities," which provide guidelines for safe and sanitary body art administration.
As With Any Invasive Procedure
Body art may involve possible health risks. These risks may include, but are not limited to, transmission of bloodborne diseases such as HIV and viral hepatitis, skin disorders, skin infections, and allergic reactions.
In Addition
Persons with certain conditions including, but not limited to, diabetes, hemophilia, or epilepsy are at a higher risk for complications and should consult a physician before undergoing a body art procedure.
Filing A Complaint
If you wish to file a complaint against a body art facility related to compliance with PA 375 or have concerns about potential health risks, please visit www.michigan.gov/bodyart.