Are you thinking about getting a tattoo? Or do you already have one and are looking for a way to care for and heal your skin? Dermal patches, or skin dressings, are an increasingly popular and effective method of healing tattoos.
They have been increasingly used in the industry with very good results, but despite the potential benefits there are some risks associated with use. Proper care and maintenance are very important aspects to consider when using dermal patches for tattoo aftercare.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of using dermal patches for tattooed skin, as well as some tips on application and the care you should take to use them correctly.
What are dermal patches?
Dermal patches function as a protective barrier against bacteria and dirt, but allows the skin to breathe and heal properly. It is actually a specially designed adhesive dressing that can help speed up and enhance the skin's healing process.
In addition, it blocks internal body fluids and keeps the tattoo hydrated, helping it in its healing process without forming scabs.
They are typically made from silicone, a lightweight, breathable material that is well tolerated by most skin types. This material also has the added benefit of being waterproof, which can help protect your tattoo from getting wet and potentially infected.
How do tattoos benefit healing?
They are designed to help promote healing of tattooed areas. sealing the area and preventing bacteria or other contaminants from entering. This can help reduce the risk of infection and also decrease the risk of scarring.
In addition, the silicone material used in the dermal patch helps create a microenvironment around the tattoo, which can speed up the healing process and improve the overall appearance of the tattoo.
When should you use it?
They can be used whenever you want to promote the healing of a tattooed area. For newly tattooed areas, It is often recommended to wait until the tattoo has healed a bit before applying the dermal patch.
This usually happens a few days or a week after the tattoo is done. Also, if you have a tattoo that does not heal well or has become infected, the patch can help you promote faster healing and reduce the risk of scarring.
There are several brands that usually come in very large rolls. Similar to a plastic film that can be cut to fit the size and shape of the tattoo area. Very easy to apply and very practical.
Placement of dermal patches
It is a simple process, you just have to make sure that the area is clean and completely dry. You can use an antiseptic foam or some disinfectant product to eliminate bacteria from the area.
You should put on gloves and wait to clean the area and wait for it to dry completely. Then, take the roll of material and cut it to the size you need.
You can round the corners to prevent it from peeling off easily., after cutting the patch to size, change your gloves to avoid contamination and remove the protective plastic covering the adhesive side of the patch. Many of these have tabs to make application easier.
Center the patch over the tattoo and remove the remaining plastic. pressing firmly to remove any air bubbles.
Recommendations and care
- When applying a dermal patch, it is important to make sure the area is clean and dry. If the area is too moist, the dermal patch may not adhere well or provide the best healing environment.
- The ideal is to start using the dermal patches for a maximum of 7 days to avoid harmful effects and reduce the risk of infection.
- After this time, the effects can be harmful and there is a risk of infection, which is why it is very important to use it only for a week.
- It is important make sure to apply it without the presence of air bubbles or wrinkles. Once applied you can secure it with an adhesive bandage to ensure it stays in place.
- Also you have to try not to rub the skin, As this can cause the dermal patch to come loose and also slow down the healing process, it can also cause irritation in the area.
- Realistic and very colorful tattoos are when the skin receives the most trauma, in these cases it is important to leave it for 7 days, this happens much more with this style of tattoos than with others.
- It is recommended not to do physical activity while wearing the patch. as it can cause sweating and peel off prematurely.
- Spend at least the first 8 hours without bathing nor be in contact with water to help the adhesive stick completely and prevent it from coming off.
- To remove it, it is recommended to use warm or hot water. to loosen the adhesive product.
- To prevent it from sticking to the skin, wash the area with soap using gentle, circular movements, taking care not to rub too much to avoid injury.
- Something to keep in mind is that They are not made to protect you from harmful UV rays from the sun.
Many people think that it gives you adequate protection to expose it to sunlight, but you can't do that.
Advantages of using dermal patches
- Accelerates the tattoo healing process.
- No scabs are formed It prevents the ink from coming out too much and you will have a tattoo with more vivid colors.
- Avoid contact with bacteria completely.
- It is very important because you cannot scratch yourself, and that way prevent it from causing injury.
Disadvantages
- You cannot exercise or make sudden movements. because the patch comes off.
- Avoid using them in very high temperatures and in summer. They are not recommended due to excessive sweating.
- You can't use them either to swim or expose yourself to water.
Finally, dermal patches offer many benefits when it comes to promoting healing of tattooed areas. They can help reduce the risk of infection and scarring, and also speed up the healing process.
It is important to ensure that the area is clean and dry, and that the patch is applied gently. Additionally, washing and drying the area regularly can help keep it clean and free of bacteria. or contaminants. By following these recommendations, you will be able to heal the tattooed area quickly and effectively.