Aftercare
The First Day
Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
​
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure that your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant. Please follow these instructions carefully.
1. Wearing Second Skin
​
Initial Bandage: Keep the Second Skin bandage on for 3-6 days, with 6 days being ideal. However, if you notice irritation, excessive fluid buildup, or if the bandage starts to peel off, it’s okay to remove it sooner.
​
No Reapplication After Scabbing: Do not reapply any bandages after the scabbing or flaking phase of tattoo healing has begun. During this phase, keep the area well-moisturized.
I
Follow Us
2. Removing the Second Skin
​
Gentle Removal: When removing the Second Skin, find an edge of the bandage and gently peel it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. Doing this in the shower under warm water will help loosen the adhesive and make the process more comfortable.
​
Cleaning: After removing the Second Skin, wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Allow it to air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel.
​
Adhesive Residue: If adhesive remains on your skin, or if it doesn’t come off easily with water, you can use coconut oil or baby oil to help with removal.
Healing Process
3. After Removing the Second Skin
​
Moisturizing: Continue to care for the tattoo by washing and moisturizing as needed until it is fully healed. Even if the tattoo appears healed on the surface, deeper layers of skin will continue to repair for 2-4 months. A consistent moisturizing regimen during this period is recommended.
​
4. Showering, Swimming, and Exercising with Second Skin
​
Showering: It’s fine to shower while wearing the second skin bandage, but keep the time in the shower to a minimum. Avoid baths or submerging the tattoo in water, as this can weaken the adhesive and increase the risk of infection.
​
Swimming and Submersion: Do not swim or fully submerge the tattoo while wearing this bandage.
​
Exercise: Light exercise is fine, but avoid activities that cause excessive sweating. Sweat can weaken the adhesive and compromise the bandage’s protection.
​​
Special Attention
5. Handling Issues with Second Skin
​
Fluid Buildup: It’s normal for the bandage to fill with plasma, ink, and blood, creating a dark liquid under the Second Skin. If you notice a significant buildup of fluid within the first day or two, it’s important to remove the bandage, clean the tattooed area, and reapply a new Second Skin bandage. You can order saniderm or other tattoo tailored second skin bandage companies to use as a replacement of the original bandage applied at the end of your tattoo session. If you have any questions regarding this please reach out.
​
Leaks or Lifting: If the bandage leaks, rolls up, or is punctured, it must be removed immediately. Do not try to tape it back on, as this is not sanitary. You can reapply a new Second Skin bandage within the first two days of your tattoo
​
6. Regular Bandage Care
​
Initial Care: If your tattoo was bandaged with a regular bandage, leave it on for 1-4 hours. After removing it, wash your hands, and then gently wash the tattoo with mild non-scented antibacterial soap and warm water, pat it dry with a clean towel/paper towel.
​
Moisturizing: For larger tattoos, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor for the first 3-4 days. Stay away from petroleum-based products such as Neosporin, Vaseline, or A&D as they can act as an occlusive agent and clog the pores preventing air from reaching the wound and allowing it to heal. After the first 3-4 days switch to a gentle unscented lotion. For smaller tattoos, you can skip the ointments and just use unscented lotion. Apply 3-5 times daily to keep the tattoo from drying out and the skin moisturized but not oversaturated.
​
7. General Dos and Don'ts
​
Do: Keep up the washing and moisturizing routine for at least 7-10 days after getting your tattoo. This will help speed up healing and relieve itching.
​
Don't: Avoid re-bandaging your tattoo after the initial regular bandage is removed.
​
Do not submerge your tattoo in water for long periods (no baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, etc.) for at least two weeks.
Avoid saunas and tanning beds for three weeks.
Do not pick or scratch your healing tattoo, as this can damage it.
​
8. Need Help?
​
If you experience any redness, irritation, or unusual symptoms, or if you have any concerns, please contact us directly. We’re here to help ensure your tattoo heals perfectly.