Ever wondered how to take care of your Stick and Poke properly? Now you don't have to.
The aftercare process of your new tattoo is crucial to ensure you achieve the perfect stick and poke. Although stick and poke tattoos are generally small and simple, the healing process is still just as important, the first week being the most crucial in our opinion. If done properly, healing will be fast and you will not suffer any scabbing. Sound good? Great. Let's cover the steps.
Apply A Bandage
The first stage of aftercare is to bandage your new tattoo, this is to ensure the prevention of contaminating the newly poked skin.
Begin by cleaning the tattoo with a green soap and water using a ratio of 1 to 8. Rubbing alcohol can also be used if you feel you need it. Next, apply an antiseptic cream and cover the tattoo with a sterile absorbing pad or gauze. Fix the bandage with sterile fabric tape and allow this to protect the tattoo for 6 hours.
Quick tip – do not use a plastic wrap for your stick and poke tattoo. This can create a wet and warm environment, encouraging the growth of bacteria. This is a big no no!
Removal of the bandage
After a minimum of 2 hours, the bandage can be removed. Now, you must cleanse the tattoo running it under lukewarm water avoiding the use of any scented soups. Ensure you pat the tattoo dry and DO NOT rub. Rubbing the tattoo could cause long term damage. During the first weeks healing process the tattoo should be cleaned up to 3 times a day.
Quick tip – Avoid submerging your new tattoo in water for at least two weeks, this is to preserve the appearance of the design.
Keep the tattoo moisturised
In terms of ointments, creams free from synthetic chemicals are best. Your new tattoo needs the chance to breath in order to heal. Heavy, chemical based creams can stop this from happening. The more organic and natural, the better the cream will be for your new ink. Cream should be applied every time the tattoo appears dry.
Quick tip – Do not over moisturise the tattoo. This can lead to clogged pores, causing skin break outs that can ruin your tattoo. Use your common sense during this process.
Reword and Touch Ups
You must wait for a minimum of two weeks to allow for healing before you begin to rework or touch up your stick and poke tattoo. Following the correct aftercare protocols, you should have the perfect stick and poke. Enjoy!
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