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Julianne Marella Villegas


@singlepickles


Handpoked Tattoos (18+)

  1. Booking Form + Info
  2. Fresh + Healed
  3. Flash
  4. Aftercare


Fine Art
  1. Risograph
  2. Printmaking
  3. Textiles
  4. Artist’s Statement
  5. CV

☼ Tattoo Aftercare ☼


Thank you for letting me adorn your skin. If you have any questions not answered here, send me an email at singlepickles@gmail.com. If you need a touch up, check my availability on Instagram and send me an email in our tattoo thread.

Thank you!


Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. If at any point, your tattoo starts to ache, swell, ooze, or otherwise look alarming, please contact a medical professional.




Second Skin (Derm Shield)


What is Derm Shield?
From the website, “Effortlessly protect your new tattoos with Recovery Derm Shield, a latex-free, transparent matte film adhesive bandage. Derm Shield offers maximum breathability and flexibility, providing optimal conditions for flawless, gentle healing and skin renewal. It eliminates scabbing and reduces the risk of scarring, while preventing exposure to bacteria, dirt, and abrasion. Derm Shield is waterproof, but permeable to allow skin perspiration, and it is durable enough to keep up with your everyday activities with a peace of mind and body. Preserving tattoo vibrancy, our Derm Shield allows your skin to breathe and heal the right way.”
    
How long do I keep the bandage on for?
I recommend 48 hours, but up to 5 days. However long or short you keep your second skin on is up to your discretion. It is a convenience, not a necessity for healing handpokes.

What happens if I have a leak/lifting/irritation/chafing?
If you notice a leak in your Derm Shield seal or chafing (redness, soreness, itchiness, etc.) around the edges, take the bandage off immediately and follow the instructions below.

How do I remove Derm Shield?
Start by taking a warm shower to loosen the adhesive. You'll want to remove the bandage pulling with the grain of your hair starting from the corner. Do not pull upwards if you can help it. If you feel any pain while removing the bandage (especially around softer areas), give yourself a breather and try holding your skin taught to mitigate the pulling sensation. As soon as the bandage is off, gently wash the area under an indirect stream with warm water and mild/unscented soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion/balm as needed.


General Healing Practices


How long will my tattoo take to heal?
Two weeks is a general timeline, but a tattoo can take 4 to 6 weeks to fully settle (no raised or flaky skin). You'll notice the skin is irritated for the first day or two, but the swelling and tenderness should resolve within the 2-3 days. 

What do I need to clean my tattoo?
I highly suggest gathering your aftercare products before your tattoo appointment to reduce any stress about cleaning later on. You’ll need unscented/mild soap, clean paper towels, and an unscented lotion/balm. On my body, I heal best with unscented Dr.Bronner’s or Cetaphil, and Vaseline Advanced Repair or Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula. If you are on a tight budget, all of these items come in travel sizes, which is more than enough for the entire two week healing time.

How do I clean my tattoo?
Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo. Gently wash your tattoo under an indirect stream with warm water and unscented/mild soap. Use a clean paper towel to pat the area dry, or wait 15 minutes to air dry before applying a *thin* layer of unscented lotion/balm. Clean your tattoo at least twice a day (in the morning and before bed) and any time you get the area dirty/sweaty. I recommend moisturizing once a day or whenever needed (the area feels itchy/tight).

My tattoo is itchy. What can I do?
Itching is a normal sign of healing. Do not pick at any scabs or flakes coming off of your tattoo. If you feel itchy or dry, clean the area and apply a *thin* layer of unscented lotion/balm with clean hands.

What do I need to avoid while my tattoo is healing?
Direct sunlight. Submerging in water (sauna, gym, hot tub, etc.). Tight clothing around the tattooed area.