AFTERCARE

Thank you for choosing HVTC and congratulations on your new tattoo or body piercing! We use state of the art sterilization and sanitary practices. From this point on you are responsible for the healing and care of your new piece of art.

Please follow these simple instructions and your healing process should be quick and easy.

TATTOO AFTERCARE:

  • Leave the initial bandage on for 2-4 hours.

  • With clean hands, remove the bandage under lukewarm water to allow bandage and tape to work itself free.

  • Wash the tattoo with a mild soap (liquid antibacterial soap is recommended) and lukewarm water. Use your fingertips to remove all excess ointment, blood and ink. Rinse clean.

  • Gently pat dry with a paper towel. DO NOT SCRUB!

  • Let the area air dry for 5-10 minutes before applying ointment (Aquaphor is recommended). Use just enough ointment so that it is absorbed into the skin. Gently blot off excess with a paper towel.

  • Wash your tattoo and apply ointment 3 to 4 times a day.

  • If it is recommended by your artist, reapply saran wrap over your tattoo and use medical grade tape to secure it in place. Change your wrap 3 to 4 times daily, washing the tattoo each time a new wrap is applied. We recommend you sleep with your tattoo wrapped to avoid contact with bed sheets.

  • Repeat this process for the first 3 days.

  • From the 4th day on, apply a mild, fragrance free moisturizing lotion (Lubriderm or Curel is recommended) 4 to 5 times a day, washing your tattoo before each application.

  • Repeat this process for the first 2 to 3 weeks

  • You should expect to see your tattoo peel, flake and in some cases scab. This is a normal part of the healing process. It’s normal for your tattoo to itch, but it is imperative that you do not scratch or pick any scabs that may form.

  • For the first 3 weeks keep your tattoo away from direct sunlight or tanning, swimming or soaking of any kind, and avoid applying sunscreen or sun tan lotion.

BODY PIERCING AFTERCARE:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching your piercing for any reason

  • Spray with a sterile saline wound wash 2-3 times a day while healing. Do not twist, spin, or rotate your jewelry

  • Avoid friction and pressure from clothing, excessive motion of the area, playing with the jewelry, and vigorous cleaning

  • Avoid submerging the piercing. Protect your piercing. A waterproof, transparent film dressing can be used if necessary and is ideal for nipple, navel, and surface piercings.

SURFACE PIERCINGS/DERMAL ANCHORS: 

  • A small bandage, like a Band-Aid, is recommended for the first 5 days, worn day and night, and removed only to clean the piercing gently. It is recommended to wear a bandage while you sleep for 10 days.

ORAL PIERCING AFTERCARE :

  • For lip or similar piercing, follow the body piercing aftercare for the outside and oral piercing aftercare for the inside.

  • Floss, brush, and use an alcohol-free mouth rinse at least twice a day.

  • Avoid smoking, vaping, using straws, chewing gum, eating spicy, salty, acidic, or hot foods or beverages for the first two weeks.

  • Rinse with bottled or filtered water after every time you eat, drink, or smoke.

  • To reduce swelling: allow small pieces of ice to dissolve in your mouth, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, minimize speaking or moving your jewelry more than necessary, and sleep with your head elevated above your heart during the first few nights.

  • Once the swelling has subsided, it is vital to replace the original, longer jewelry with a shorter post or barbell to avoid damage to the teeth and gums.