CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Through the years we have heard of many ways to care for your tattoo. The oldest version, circa 1970s, instructed the client to remove the bandage in 2 hours, wash with soap and water, and to keep the tattoo clean. That is still good advice. Certainly, there are many ointments and cremes you can apply. Some may or may not be reactive to you, your skin type and your tattoo.
Here at Pat's Tats, we instruct you to keep your bandage on overnight to prevent becoming stuck to your bedding or nightclothes. In the morning, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo thoroughly. Any spots of accumulated blood or plasma that are difficult to wash off will take longer to heal. Use soap and warm water and apply with your hand, not a washcloth or scrub brush. DO NOT USE IVORY. [Ivory will make your brand new tattoo look like an old tattoo by time it heals.] Rinse thoroughly by letting the water run down your body, not beat directly on the new tattoo. DO NOT PICK YOUR TATTOO. That will damage the tattoo and leave a scar. We do recommend you use Vitamin A & D Ointment, which we provide. We DO NOT RECOMMEND antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin, Bacitracin or Polysporin. You may be allergic to these products which can be fatal if you are unaware of your allergy. Use the A & D Ointment sparingly and only for 3 days. After this, you can begin to apply a moisturizer and continue its use for as long as you care to. We recommend Curel and Eucerin. DO NOT USE LUBRIDERM. Lubriderm, we have found, can be reactive with your new tattoo.
Remember, call this studio if you have any questions. USE COMMON SENSE.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A TATTOO STUDIO
• APT or Alliance of Professional Tattooists, Inc. Membership.
This lets you know that the artist(s) abide by a code of professionalism in regard to health, safety and ethics.
• Spore Testing Certificate
Tells you that there is an autoclave on the premises and it is tested monthly for accuracy and reliability.
• Single Service Needles, Tubes and Pigment holders.
Don't rely on products being "disposable" since any item can be thrown away. Be sure it is "single-service."
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A TATTOO ARTIST
• Experience and established good reputation are tantamount to a well-respected, thriving tattoo artist.
• A well rounded portfolio of art and photographs of tattoos executed.
• An ability to satisfactorily answer your questions.
• Someone who is ethical. A sense of good conduct and fair dealings in business and client relations.