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Aftercare Instructions

If using an aftercare bandage, such as Saniderm or Second Skin, keep the bandage on for 3 to 5 days following your tattoo, or for the duration instructed by your artist.

"Second Skin" Aftercare

IF YOUR BANDAGE BEGINS TO FALL OFF, OR TO REMOVE:

  • Use warm water to help soften the adhesive and gently peel off the remainder of the bandage.
  • Gently wash the tattoo with unscented mild disinfectant hand soap, such as Dial Gold liquid hand soap, to disinfect and gently clean the area.

For more assistance, please review the short demonstration by Youtube creator JustINKD below.

FOLLOWING BANDAGE REMOVAL,

  • Clean the tattoo with non-scented, mild disinfectant liquid soap and water 3 times daily for one week after your bandage is removed
  • Gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel after each wash
  • Apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment, such as Aquaphor, to the area after each wash for one week
  • Following one week, switch from aftercare ointment to a thin layer of non-scented lotion 2 to 3 times daily for the next two weeks.

During healing, avoid

  • Submerging your tattoo in water (e.g. lakes, pools, bathtubs) for at least one month after your appointment to allow for the best healing. 
  • Heavy sweating around the area of your tattoo for at least two weeks after your appointment.
  • Excessive use of ointments, salves, or lotions.  Let your tattoo breathe!  (Also, avoid using white petroleum products, such as pure vaseline).
  • Direct sunlight.  If you will be exposed to direct sun, use an SPF sunblock to protect the skin around your tattoo.

What you can expect

  • itchiness and peeling around the site within a few days.  Do not scratch or pick at the area around the tattoo.  Allow any scabs to peel off naturally.
  • Swelling and redness around the area of the tattoo may occur for up to a week following the appointment.
  • Ink and/or plasma may surface following the appointment.  Gently wash and reapply ointment as instructed if this occurs.
  • Shading may fade and colors may appear to dull during the healing process.  This is normal.  It usually takes up to one month for a tattoo to fully heal.  Timeframes will differ for each person and how their body responds to the healing process.