Tech Talk #50: Cosmetic Tattoo Aftercare Reminder

Good cosmetic tattoo aftercare is vital to a successful treatment, yet often is an afterthought for the client and sometimes even the technician. 

Summer in Australia means stronger sun exposure, higher humidity and plenty of sweat, all of which can increase the risk of infection, premature fading and poor healing for your clients’ cosmetic tattoo.

In this Tech Talk we’re focusing on:

• the importance of effective aftercare during the hotter months,
• how to encourage your clients to follow it correctly, and
• our top product recommendation to support optimal healing!

Why is aftercare so important?  

• Preventing infection: As cosmetic tattooing creates a mild wound, correct aftercare is essential for preventing an infection. A post-treatment infection is the number one reason for a client complaint and usually one that can be avoided with proper aftercare!
• Providing a healing environment: Correct aftercare creates the perfect environment for a cosmetic tattoo to heal and look its best. After years of debate, the medical profession now recommends moist healing (not dry healing).
• Letting air in, and keeping bacteria out: We want to avoid a build-up of excess moisture, and allow oxygen to reach the skin. Good aftercare will allow breathability, whilst also protecting the cosmetic tattoo from bacteria and infection.
• Pigment Retention: The pigment needs to stay in, not be squeezed out by excessive lymph fluid production, scabbing and maybe even bleeding. Good aftercare protects the healing skin from damage and promotes an environment that allows the pigment to properly heal within the skin. 

How do I ensure my client understands its importance? 

It can be difficult communicating to clients the importance of aftercare, however, a few small steps can make a big difference!

As a technician, you should always provide your client with written aftercare instructions that outline the essential dos and don’ts for optimal healing. Just as importantly, take time during the appointment to discuss these requirements in person. When clients hear the information explained and understand why it matters, they’re far more likely to take it seriously, and not leave the printed sheet forgotten in their bag.

What product should I use/recommend?

We understand, there are LOTS of options on the market and it can be difficult choosing what aftercare to stock or recommend. 

We suggest not using anything with biologically active ingredients (e.g., aloe vera) as this could feed bacteria. Complicated mixtures may look impressive but there is a simple job to be done: Keep bacteria out, and moisture in.

Occlusive gels are ideal at forming a barrier that still allows oxygen in. Then the challenge is finding one that is not too thick, not too runny, and doesn’t look like you just varnished your eyebrows. At Think Aesthetics we ran into this same issue, so we developed an aftercare that ticks all the boxes - THink Care & Repair!

THink Care & Repair has been specially formulated for the unique requirements of cosmetic tattoo and removal aftercare. Being an occlusive, film-forming gel it provides an ideal environment for healing, with added bentonite clay (loved for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties!). PLUS it is formulated to be light-weight and low-gloss!

Take a look at THink Care & Repair (note: we have retail packs available as a retail opportunity in your clinic!).