Piercing Aftercare
Standard Tattoo Aftercare
• One hour after your tattoo appointment, remove the bandage.
• Gently wash the tattoo with warm water and a mild, unscented antibacterial liquid soap.
(such as Dial Gold)
• Pat the area dry using a clean paper towel. Do not rub the tattoo.
• Repeat this cleaning process 2–3 times daily for the next two weeks.
• Allow the tattoo 24 hours to begin sealing before applying any topical products.
• After the first 24 hours, apply a very thin layer of 100% pure, fragrance free aloe vera gel.
• Apply aloe lightly as you would lotion and repeat 2–3 times daily after washing for several weeks to keep the skin hydrated.
Redemption Aftercare
Follow the standard aftercare routine but substitute Redemption aftercare in place of aloe vera.
Saniderm Aftercare
• Saniderm may be applied immediately after your procedure. No care is required during the first 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, remove the Saniderm and wash the tattoo with mild, unscented antibacterial soap.
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow the tattoo to air dry for approximately 15 minutes.
• Apply the second Saniderm bandage as instructed by your artist.
• Leave the second bandage in place for 3–5 days. Do not exceed 7 days.
• On Day 3–5, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo again with mild antibacterial soap.
• Begin applying an unscented, water based lotion such as Eucerin or Curel.
• Continue washing the tattoo 2–3 times daily and apply lotion 3–4 times daily for the next two weeks.
• It is normal for the bandage to fill with fluid during the first 24 hours.
• If the bandage begins to lift before the recommended removal time, contact your artist for guidance.
Important Healing Guidelines
• Use only a very small amount of aloe or lotion. Excess product can negatively affect healing.
• Take brief showers during the first two weeks.
• Avoid public water sources such as swimming pools, lakes, hot tubs, water rides, or the ocean for at least one month.
• Do not scrub or wipe the tattoo with cloth towels. Only pat dry with a clean paper towel.
• Avoid tight clothing directly on the tattoo until the area is fully healed.
• If scabbing occurs, do not pick at it. Scabs will fall away naturally during healing.
• Avoid direct sunlight (natural or artificial) while the tattoo is healing.
• Once healed, continue moisturizing the tattoo and use sunscreen to preserve the artwork.
Touch Ups & Questions
Queen of Hearts provides one complimentary touch up within 90 days of the procedure (restrictions may apply).
If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process, please contact the studio.
(615) 256-5051
Queen of Hearts Tattoo & Body Piercing in Nashville, TN
Tattoo Aftercare
NeilMed Wound Wash Aftercare Instructions
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your piercing heals safely and comfortably. Please follow the guidelines below throughout the healing process.
General Cleaning Instructions
• Wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching your piercing for any reason.
• Spray the piercing with sterile saline wound wash while healing. Rotating or moving jewelry is not necessary and may cause irritation.
• Dry the area using clean disposable materials such as sterile gauze or cotton swabs. Avoid cloth towels as they can harbor bacteria or snag jewelry.
• Avoid touching the piercing except during cleaning. Do not twist, spin, or rotate jewelry during healing.
Lifestyle Considerations During Healing
• Exercise and sweating are acceptable, but avoid activities that may cause trauma or irritation. Protect the piercing from bacteria on gym equipment or exercise mats.
• Maintain clean bedding and change it regularly. Wear clean, breathable clothing while sleeping.
• Showers are safer than baths, as bathtubs can harbor bacteria. If bathing in a tub, clean it thoroughly beforehand and rinse the piercing after.
Oral Piercings (If Applicable)
• Use an alcohol free and hydrogen peroxide free mouth rinse, or a dry mouth rinse for hydration.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
• Use mouth rinse at least twice daily but avoid excessive use.
• Gently brush the jewelry with a clean toothbrush to prevent plaque buildup.
• Rinse with bottled or filtered water after eating, drinking, or smoking.
Important Reminders
• Avoid cleaning with alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, antibacterial soaps, iodine, or harsh products that can damage tissue.
• Avoid ointments, as they restrict airflow and may trap bacteria.
• Do not use Bactine®, ear care solutions, or products containing Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK).
• Avoid over cleaning, which can irritate the piercing and slow healing.
Protecting Your Piercing
• Avoid friction, pressure from clothing, excessive movement, or playing with the jewelry.
• Avoid oral contact, rough play, and contact with bodily fluids near the piercing while healing.
• Minimize stress, drug use, excessive caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol as they may prolong healing.
Water Exposure
• Avoid submerging the piercing in lakes, oceans, pools, or hot tubs during healing.
• If submersion cannot be avoided, protect the piercing with a waterproof transparent film dressing available at most pharmacies.
Jewelry Care
• Avoid cosmetics, lotions, sprays, or personal care products directly on or around the piercing.
• Do not attach charms or objects to jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.
• For ear piercings, consider using a travel neck pillow to reduce pressure while sleeping.
• Unless there is a problem with the jewelry size, style, or material, leave the initial jewelry in place during the healing period.
• Many piercings require a professional downsizing appointment during healing. Consult your piercer for jewelry adjustments.
• Check threaded jewelry regularly to ensure it remains secure. For threadless jewelry, gently press the top to confirm it is properly seated.
Normal Healing Symptoms
• Minor bleeding • Localized swelling • Tenderness • Bruising • Mild discoloration • A whitish yellow fluid that may form crust on the jewelry These symptoms are normal. Piercings heal from the outside inward, meaning they may appear healed before internal tissue recovery is complete. Continue proper aftercare throughout the full healing period.
Additional Healing Information
• Even healed piercings can shrink or close quickly. Consult a professional before removing jewelry.
• If skin appears to be growing over the jewelry or embedding is suspected, contact your piercer immediately.
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