Tattoo aftercare
Follow the instructions Ben gives you for your tattoo and dressing. This guide covers caring for your tattoo at home, when to seek medical advice and where to buy aftercare products.
Caring for your tattoo
- Follow your dressing instructions. Ben will explain when to remove or change the dressing used for your tattoo. Contact the studio if you’re unsure.
- Keep it clean. Wash your hands before touching the tattoo or its dressing. When it’s time to clean the area, wash it gently with running water and a little mild soap, then pat it dry with clean paper towel.
- Protect it while it heals. Avoid scratching, picking at scabs, tight or dirty clothing, and direct sun. Avoid swimming and soaking in baths or spas until the skin has healed.
- Use products as directed. Follow the instructions for any aftercare product Ben or a healthcare professional recommends. Once the skin has healed, protect your tattoo with sunscreen when it’s exposed to the sun.
When to seek medical advice
Seek medical advice straight away if redness, swelling or pain gets worse, you notice pus or ongoing bleeding, or the tattoo isn’t healing. If you’re unsure what care you need, call Victoria’s Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24 at any hour.
Aftercare products at reception
You can buy tattoo aftercare products at the reception desk at The Art of Ben Bickley. The studio is at 20 - 22 Rodney Road, North Geelong, VIC 3215. Ask Ben about the options for your tattoo during your appointment.
Email the studioVictorian client information
In Victoria, each client must receive approved written information about tattooing risks and safeguards directly from the studio before the procedure. The Department of Health’s client information sheet covers infection risks and aftercare.