This aftercare page lays out the basic tattoo aftercare instructions that our artists provide to our clients.
Please note that every body is different, and all tattoos heal differently. Please follow the instructions below to ensure the easiest and safest healing process.

1. Saniderm bandages are used by all of our resident artists (unless an allergy has been pre-disclosed). This bandage should be left on for a minimum of 24 hours, but can be left on for 2-3 days. Leaving the bandage on for longer can help to speed up the healing process and protect the tattoo during the first few days of healing. It is normal to see some blood and plasma under the bandage.

2. When you are ready to remove your bandage, please do so in the shower. Run warm water over the bandage and slowly remove. Slight irritation may occur under the bandage if removing from an area of sensitive skin, but should not cause a problem to the healing of the tattoo. Once you have removed the Saniderm, you should not re-bandage your tattoo.

3. Once the bandage is removed, wash the tattoo well with warm water and an unscented soap. Fragrances in soap can irritate a healing tattoo, so please use unscented soap for the entirety of the healing process. A healing tattoo should be washed every day. After you have washed the tattoo, pat it dry with a clean towel (or paper towel).

4. For the first few days of healing (once the bandage has been removed) do not use any moisturizers or cream on the healing tattoo. Allowing your body a few days to start the healing process without interfering with moisturizer or tattoo cream can drastically improve the healing process. You should still continue to wash and dry your tattoo during this time. After a few days of dry healing your tattoo, use a small amount of unscented moisturizer or tattoo cream to sooth the tattoo when it is particularly dry or itchy. Be sure not to over- moisturize, as this can prolong the healing process.

   
   While you have a healing tattoo, please keep the following in mind:

• Do not submerge the tattoo in water. This includes pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, lakes and oceans. Showering is perfectly fine.

• Be careful to limit sun exposure. Sunscreen should not be used on fresh tattoos, so be mindful if you are out in the sun to cover your tattoo with clothing. A sunburn can do serious damage to a healing tattoo.

• Do not scratch at or pick at your tattoo. Some scabbing and flaking is completely normal while your tattoo heals. Itchiness is completely normal, and can be soothed with a small amount of unscented moisturizer.

• If a tattoo gets dirty during the day (from sweat during a workout, you spill food on it, a dog licks it, etc) make sure to wash the tattoo immediately after, following the instructions above.

While your tattoo is healing, please feel free to email hello@thornwood.ca or contact your artist directly with any questions or concerns.

If you do not receive a prompt response from us and you are still concerned, please contact a healthcare professional.