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Aftercare

Our team of professional piercers and tattoo artists always encourage clients to properly care for their new tattoo or piercing, the final product of quality can be determined by the aftercare following the procedures below. Poke A Dotz carries quality aftercare products that will help your tattoo or piercing heal quickly and properly. On this page you will find in-depth aftercare information outlining proper aftercare and what to expect.  Use the search bar below to answer any questions you may have or keep scrolling to view our quick aftercare tips.  If there is a question you can't answer on this page please do not hesitate to contact our shop, we will gladly assist you and help you through the healing process.

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AFTERCARE TIPS

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR 

PIERCINGS

Aftercare-Tips.HEIC
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FAQ
  • What can I clean my piercing with?
    Cleaning Solutions Use one or both of the following solutions for healing piercings: ​ 1. Packaged sterile saline solution with no additives (read the label), or a non-iodized sea salt mixture: Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized (iodine-free) sea salt into one cup (8 oz.) of warm distilled or bottled water. 2. A mild, fragrance-free liquid soap—preferably anti-microbial or germicidal. IMPORTANT NOTE: A stronger mixture is not better; a saline solution that is too strong can irritate the piercing.
  • How do I clean my piercing?
    1. WASH your hands thoroughly prior to cleaning or touching your piercing for any reason. In doing so could put you're piercing at risk of infection, rejection or not healing properly general. 2. SALINE soak for 30 seconds 2-3 times per day. Invert a cup of warm saline solution over the area to form a vacuum. For certain piercings it may be easier to apply using clean gauze or paper towels saturated with saline solution. A brief rinse afterward will remove any residue. 3. SOAP no more than once or twice a day. While showering, lather up a pearl size drop of the soap to clean the jewelry and the piercing. Leave the cleanser on the piercing no more than thirty seconds. 4. RINSE thoroughly to remove all traces of the soap from the piercing. It is not necessary to rotate the jewelry through the piercing. 5. DRY by gently patting with clean, disposable paper products. Cloth towels can harbor bacteria and snag on jewelry, causing injury. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you would like to learn how to make a cleaning solution at home search "Cleaning Solutions" in the FAQ
  • What is normal healing for my piercing?
    The first few days you may experience some bleeding, localized swelling, tenderness, or bruising. As your piercing is healing you may see some discoloration, itching, secretion of a whitish-yellow fluid (not pus) that will form some crust on the jewelry. The tissue may tighten around the jewelry as it heals. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are experiencing anything other than what is listed please feel free to use the chat bot or contact us.
  • How do I know my piercing is healed?
    Essentially a "healed piercing" would consist of but not limited to; no swelling, sensitivity is low, no discharge...etc. However note the jewelry may still not move freely in the piercing location however do not force it. A piercing may seem healed before the healing process is complete. This is because tissue heals from the outside in, and although it feels fine, the interior remains fragile. Be patient, and keep cleaning throughout the entire healing period. Continue to maintain your piercing cleaning as part of your daily hygiene routine, it is common that although symptoms subside normal discharge but smelly bodily secretions may accumulate as the healing process continues. IMPORTANT NOTE: Even healed piercings can shrink or close in minutes after having been there for years! This varies from person to person; if you like your piercing, keep jewelry in—do not leave it empty.
  • How can I help speed up the healing process?
    Regularly clean your piercing. For more info on how to clean your piercing follow the instructions listed in the FAQ and or downloadable pdf on the Aftercare home page. Showers tend to be safer versus taking baths, as bathtubs can harbor bacteria. If you bathe in a tub, clean it well before each use and rinse off your piercing when you get out. Establish a healthy habits. The healthier your lifestyle, the easier it will be for your piercing to heal. Make sure your bedding is washed and changed regularly. Wear clean, comfortable, breathable clothing that protects your piercing while you are sleeping. Remember to get good sleep and eat a nutritious diet. Exercise during healing is fine; but listen to your body.
  • How do I prep to clean my piercing?
    Wash your hands prior to touching the piercing and try to avoid contact with it except when you are cleaning. During healing, it is not necessary to rotate your jewelry. If you want to clean around your piercing with out the intention to rotate it. Take a cue tip with your choice of piercing solution and gently clean around the piercing.
  • What should I avoid ?
    Avoid products like Bactine®, pierced ear care solutions and other products containing Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK). These can be irritating and are not intended for long term wound care. As well as cleaning with Betadine®, Hibiciens®, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, Dial® or other harsh soaps, as these can damage cells. Lastly, avoid ointments as they prevent necessary air circulation. Click here to download information on triclosan dangers. Avoid over-cleaning. This can delay your healing and irritate your piercing. Avoid undue trauma such as friction from clothing, excessive motion of the area, playing with the jewelry, and vigorous cleaning. These activities can cause the formation of unsightly and uncomfortable scar tissue, migration, prolonged healing, and other complications. Avoid all oral contact, rough play, and contact with others’ bodily fluids on or near your piercing during healing. Avoid stress and recreational drug use, including excessive caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. Avoid submerging the piercing in unhygienic bodies of water such as lakes, pools, hot tubs, etc. Or, protect your piercing using a waterproof wound-sealant bandage (such as 3M™ Nexcare™ Clean Seals). These are available at most drugstores. Avoid all beauty and personal care products on or around the piercing including cosmetics, lotions, and sprays, etc. Avoid hanging charms or any object from your jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.
  • When should I contact my piercer?
    Come into the shop to have a qualified piercer perform any jewelry change that becomes necessary during healing. Contact your piercer if you need your jewelry removed and you're not sure your piercing has healed properly (such as for a medical procedure or job ). There are non-metallic jewelry alternatives available in store. Contact your piercer in the event an infection is suspected, quality jewelry or an inert alternative should be left in place to allow for drainage or the infection. If the jewelry is removed, the surface cells can close up, which can seal the infection inside the piercing channel and result in an abscess. Do not remove jewelry unless instructed to by a medical professional. Should you decide you no longer want the piercing, simply remove the jewelry (or have a professional piercer remove it) and continue cleaning the piercing until the hole closes. In most cases only a small mark will remain. ​
  • Extra prevention tips
    Unless there is a problem with the size, style, or material of the initial jewelry, leave it in the place for the entire healing period. When you are switching out jewelry make sure to not leave you're jewelry out for extended periods of time. Even old or well-healed piercing can shrink or close in minutes even after having been there for years. If removed, re-insertion can be difficult or impossible. With clean hands or paper product, be sure to regularly check threaded ends on your jewelry for tightness. (“Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey.”) Carry a clean spare ball in case of loss or breakage.
  • How can I protect an Ear-Cartilage or Facial piercing?
    Use the t-shirt trick: Dress your pillow in a large, clean t-shirt and turn it nightly; one clean t-shirt provides four clean surfaces for sleeping. Maintain cleanliness of telephones, headphones, eyeglasses, helmets, hats, and anything that contacts the pierced area. Use caution when styling your hair and advise your stylist of your new or healing piercing.
  • How can I protect my Nipple piercing?
    The support of a tight cotton shirt or sports bra may provide protection and feel comfortable, especially for sleeping.
  • How can I protect my Genital piercing?
    Genital Piercings—especially Prince Alberts, Ampallangs, and Apadravyas—can bleed freely for the first few days. Be prepared. Urinate after using soap to clean any piercing that is near the urethra. Wash your hands before touching on (or near) a healing piercing. In most cases you can engage in sexual activity as soon as you feel ready, but maintaining hygiene and avoiding trauma are vital; all sexual activities should be gentle during the healing period. Use barriers such as condoms, dental dams, and waterproof bandages, etc. to avoid contact with your partners’ body fluids, even in monogamous relationships. Use clean, disposable barriers on sex toys. Use a new container of water-based lubricant; do not use saliva. After sex, an additional saline soak or clean water rinse is suggested. Each body is unique and healing times vary considerably. If you have any questions, please contact your piercer.
  • How can I protect my Navel piercing?
    A hard, vented eye patch (sold at pharmacies) can be applied under tight clothing (such as nylon stockings) or secured using a length of Ace® bandage around the body (to avoid irritation from adhesive). This can protect the area from restrictive clothing, excess irritation, and impact during physical activities such as contact sports.
  • Do you need an appointment for piercings?
    No, we proudly serve walk in's. So come on in!
  • How do I care for my tattoo?
    Remove the bandage after one hour, two maximum. All wounds need to breathe if they are to heal properly. Wash the tattoo using your fingertips or hand only. Use a mild antibacterial soap and warm water. Take care to remove all traces of blood as this will cause scabbing. Do not scrub the tattoo with a washcloth during the two week healing period. Always gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean soft cloth or just let it air dry. Apply a thin coat of ointment to the tattoo, Aquaphor, A&D Ointment and Tattoo Goo are all very good (Just enough to make it shine, a little goes a long way so work it in well. Dab off all the excess with a paper towel. You should barely be able to tell that it's there. This is just enough to keep the tattoo moist and to keep it from scabbing. IMPORTANT NOTE: Your body heat will liquefy the ointment and it may become glossy looking or runny. This means there's too much on there. Dab more off. Too much ointment will only suffocate the tattoo and liquefy any scabs that may have formed causing the ink to fall out and look blotchy. There is no need to re-bandage the tattoo. Aquaphor, A&D Ointment, Tattoo Goo and Vitamin E Oil can all be very good for your new tattoo. Ointment can be applied whenever the tattoo is feeling stiff or dry but beware of over-moisturizing. Your body will absorb what it needs where it needs it. Apply ointment twice a day for two to three days then switch to a regular moisturizer like Aveeno, Eucerin, Keri, Lubriderm, Curel, Jergens, or Vaseline Intensive care. Apply moisturizer twice a day for the remainder of two weeks. Do not use lotions that contain color or fragrance or sparkles until the healing is complete. (Usually anywhere from ten days to two weeks;Possibly longer for slower healers.)
  • What should I avoid while my tattoo is healing?
    Please refrain from scratching or picking at the tattoo. Scratching the tattoo while it's healing can also cause scar tissue. It is normal for the tattoo to become very itchy during the healing time. To relieve this, slap it with your hand (this will sting it and take away the itch). Scrubbing with a washcloth can be very harsh on a tattoo and will cause your colors to fade. Do not apply sunscreen to your tattoo while it is healing. Wait until it is fully healed to go back in the sun or a tanning bed and make sure you put on a high quality SUNBLOCK (not sunscreen). Avoid excessive sunlight while your new tattoo is healing the sun can damage you're tattoo over time even if you've had it for a very long time. A sunburn on a new tattoo especially can cause a lot of problems. It will dry out your tattoo and cause it to form a terrible scab and much of the time causing the tattoo to fade before it has healed. This will slow the healing process.
  • What if I have heavy scabbing?
    Keep in mind that Individuals heal in so many different ways, it's hard to tell (especially for first-timers) exactly what will happen - whether the tattoo will scab or peel. A tattoo in one spot may heal completely different from a tattoo in another spot. The way an artist works the skin can also make a difference in the way a tattoo heals. There is no way to fortell exactly what every tattoo is going to do while healing or how to heal it. It is always better for a tattoo to peel, but sometimes people just don't heal this way. Sometimes a scab will form no matter what you do. You should always check with your artist before you change any of your aftercare procedure. Sometimes a tattoo just needs to scab. If it does form a scab discontinue the ointment or moisturizer. Let the tattoo 'dry heal'. You will have to keep an eye on it and keep any scabs from getting pulled off prematurely. If you feel it is necessary you can apply a small amount of moisturizer or ointment twice a day or less, if at all.
  • How to take care of my tattoo with Saniderm?
    SANIDERM AFTERCARE While Saniderm is on you may notice what looks like ink building up under the Saniderm, this is NORMAL, please do not be alarmed, contact the store if you're unsure. This is called Plasma, it will retain the moisture in your tattoo while also carrying important nutrients, hormones & proteins to the wound site. Remove Saniderm after 4-5 days of Getting your tattoo, if you see any skin irritation or leakage from Saniderm remove earlier. After removing Saniderm you'll want to clean your tattoo with an Antimicrobial soap, be sure it is unscented and doesn't contain alcohol because this can cause irritation to your tattoo. (Dove, Ivory, Dial) Wash with your hands or finger tips but do NOT scrub with a rag. After washing, pat dry with a paper towel. During the first few days after removing the saniderm and after washing you'll want to apply a VERY THIN layer of Aquaphor ointment. Be sure to not put too much. Do the ointment treatment for a week then switch to an UNSCENTED lotion. (Lubriderm, Vaseline Intensive Care) While the tattoo is healing it is NORMAL to see scabbing and to feel itchiness. THIS SHOULD ONLY BE A SIGN OF CONCERN WHEN: You see inflammation, redness, discharge, red streaks, feel tenderness and have fever-like symptoms. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO. This can cause fading and patchiness in your tattoos and may lead to scarring.
  • Do we have to make an appointment for a tattoo?
    Yes, however we recommend you to call or come in for a consultation. There is a DEPOSIT REQUIRED to confirm your scheduled appointment.
  • Can my friends come with me?
    We understand that you would like your friends to join the fun but for your safety and privacy of others we ask not to bring extra guest or children in. The only exception is if you are a minor and require a parent or parent guardian with proper documentation of said minor being serviced. ( For more info please search "documentation" in the FAQ search bar) We appreciate your patience with us as we are currently looking into expanding our space to accommodate extra guest for our clients experience & convenience.
  • What should I expect upon my arrival?
    Please wait by the door and someone will let you in shortly. Please do not worry we can see through the glass but there maybe guest ahead of you being serviced. We appreciate your patience!
  • How old do I need to be to come into the shop?
    You must be 18 years old to come into the shop on your own. If you are a minor under the age of 18 you will need to have your parent or guardian with you and you will need to provide the following documentation: Either a birth parent with an ID to consent, or a legal guardian that will need to provide court documentation stating they have rights to get pierced. Only 1 parent is allowed in with the minor. If you still have questions about this policy please call us or message us on our chat box.
  • If I am a minor what documentation will my parent or parent guardian need to bring in?
    If you are a minor under the age of 18 you will need to have your parent or guardian with you and you will need to provide the following documentation: Either a birth parent with an ID to consent, or a legal guardian that will need to provide court documentation stating they have rights to get pierced. Only 1 parent is allowed in with the minor. If you still have questions about this policy please call us or message us on our chat box.
  • What holidays are you closed?
    New Years Eve New Years Day Easter Independence Day Thanksgiving Christmas
  • When are you open?
    Hours of Operation Monday- Saturday 11AM-8PM Sunday 12PM-8PM *Subjected to change at anytime. For immediate updates follow our social platform.
  • What forms of payment do you accept?
    We proudly accept: Cash Debit or Credit Visa, Mastercard and American Express
  • Do you host any events?
    We celebrate Friday the 13th every year offering our best special of the year as a way to say thank you to support the local community has given us. As well as extend our gratitude to surrounding upcoming small business by inviting them to vendor at our establishment. Our intent is to share and highlight local products- services and give our clients a enjoyable experience at their favorite tattoo and piercing shop. To stay updated on any upcoming events please follow us on our social platform.
  • How can I vendor at an upcoming event?
    Not currently taking applications. Thank you for your interest. Check back later and follow us on our social platform for updates.
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