How to care for your tattoo
Hypafix Bandage Aftercare Instructions for Tattoo Healing
What is HypaFix®?
Hypafix is a brand of adhesive non-woven fabric tape designed to securely hold dressings, bandages, and medical devices in place on the skin. Hypafix is made of a breathable and hypoallergenic material that allows air to circulate, promoting a healthy healing environment for the skin.
One of the notable features of Hypafix is its self-adhesive nature, which eliminates the need for additional adhesive products such as tape or clips. It adheres gently to the skin, providing a secure hold without causing excessive irritation or discomfort. The non-woven fabric construction of Hypafix allows it to conform to the contours of the body, ensuring a comfortable fit.
Aftercare is crucial to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy for years to come. Here are some guidelines to follow when using Hypafix as part of your tattoo aftercare routine:
1. Keep the initial bandage on for 48-72 hours max. While Hypafix provides some protection against water, it's important to avoid soaking your tattoo in water during the healing process. If you let it sit any longer it may result in stronger adhesion to your skin, and it will be more difficult to remove causing more pain and discomfort to the already sensitive tattooed area.
Pro-tip* When peeling the Hypafix, peel it under the shower, with warm water running over the area to help with removal. Rather than peeling away from the skin, peel it away slowly against the skin- you will notice that any build-up of blood, and plasma (which is completely normal) assists in the removal of the film.
2. Gently clean your tattoo: After removing the Hypafix film, wash your hands thoroughly and gently cleanse your tattoo using a mild, fragrance-free soap using your hands (don’t use a loofah sponge.) Use warm to hot water and gently pat the area dry with a clean, disposable paper towel.
3. Gently clean tattoo, as part of your showering routine, for the duration of the healing process (2-3 weeks minimum). While Hypafix provides some protection against water, it's important to avoid soaking your tattoo in water during the healing process. Keep your tattooed area away from gyms, hot tubs, swimming pools, saunas, and prolonged baths until your tattoo is fully healed. Dedicate an unscented soap bar or salve to the tattoo, especially on days of excessive sweat and activity. Do not over clean, we want the tattoo to scab properly!
4. You will notice the tattoo will feel dry and will start scabbing. This is completely normal and a part of the process, and you’ll likely find it very itchy. I would suggest using a very light amount of unscented water-based lotion such as Lubriderm, Cetaphil, or Organic Coconut Oil. Use a very sparing amount, especially with the coconut oil, and gently apply it with clean hands. The moisturizer applied should not leave a noticeable cloudy film on your skin. It will help in alleviating the itch. Lightly slap tattoo if absolutely necessary, do NOT scratch or pick scabs.
5. During the healing process, protect your tattoo from direct sunlight and avoid intense physical activities that may cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area. This will prevent irritation and allow for proper healing. Wear loose clothing that can let the tattoo breathe. Once the tattoo is healed always apply a good SPF 30-50 sunscreen, to protect and maintain the longevity of the tattoo. UV light from the Sun is a tattoos worst enemy and we want to safeguard the work you’ve worked so hard to attain.
If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to email me at kevin@shinsei.studio
-Kev