Leave the bandage on for 4-5 days. In the rare occasion you happen to have a reaction to the bandage, remove it right away and follow the aftercare guidelines below. Signs of a reaction are inflamed skin under the bandaged area, rash and swelling. If you notice these symptoms, remove the bandage immediately, and contact me. 

Remove the bandage slowly. Work your way from the bottom up. Loosen one corner and slowly peel, holding the skin down firmly in position. 

Once the bandage is removed, gently wash your tattoo with unscented soap and water. Let it air dry. If your skin is still sticky after washing with soap and water, apply olive oil with clean fingers, and really gently - in slow cirlcular motions - rub the adhesive off. Rinse with water. Wash again with soap and water to remove the olive oil. Repeat the 2 procedures until your skin is no longer sticky. Please be gentle as you do not want to irritate your new ink too much.

DO NOT MOISTURIZE your tattoo. I know this is an unpopular opinion, however your tattoo is essentially a wound. We do not moisturize wounds, so let it heal naturally. If your tattoo gets unbearably itchy, you may apply a thin layer of extra virgin coconut oil, jojoba oil, extra virgin olive oil or any natural, untreated oils that promote healing of the skin. DO NOT use essential oils.

Keep your tattoo clean. Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo or applying oils (if necessary). Wash twice a day and/or if it happens to get soiled.

Do not pick or scratch the tattoo.

Please wear loose clean clothing around the tattoo area as it heals. Avoid wearing jewellery or anything that might rub on the tattoo during the entire healing period.

No baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms until fully healed. Please also avoid workouts that cause excessive sweating, hot yoga or anything that will cause friction on the tattoo area. 

Following these aftercare guidelines should avoid infection, however in the case that you do develop an infection please contact me and your doctor immediately. Signs to look for: pain/increased pain, swelling, redness, pus/white scabs, area is warm to the touch, fever and/or chills. 

Keep in mind that you received ritual ink healing. Drink plenty of water, eat well and get lots of rest after your ceremony. We did some heavy energy work/release even if it didn't seem like it at the time of your ceremony. You may experience a range of emotions, a shift in energy, or things might come up for you right away or days, even weeks or months later. This is normal. Please take good care of your body, mind and spirit, however that looks for you. I want you to know that I am here for you in any way you need to process, or if you need guidance.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions, concerns or comments, no matter how silly it seems.