AFTERCARE

Second-Skin

2nd skin products (Recovery Derm Shield, Saniderm, View-Gaurd, Tatu-Derm, etc.) are medical-grade, breathable, waterproof tattoo bandages that can stay on the tattoo for more of the healing process than traditional bandages.

Day of your tattoo:

You will leave with a second-skin bandage; this needs to be removed the morning after your tattoo.

Some fluid buildup (plasma, blood, excess ink) is fine and expected during the healing process.
Remove the bandage if there is excessive fluid buildup (leaking or looks like it may pop)
You can shower normally with a second-skin bandage; but do not excessively soak or submerge the tattoo in water.
Remove the bandage immediately if any water enters the bandage.

Day after your tattoo (Day 1)

Remove the second-skin in the shower or under warm water by pulling it in a parallel motion (like removing a command strip). Do not pull the second skin away from your skin (like a Band-Aid).

Wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap, using 2 fingers to lightly rub off the plasma/blood or excess ink. (Do not use a washcloth, loofa, or other material to clean your tattoo)

Allow your tattoo to air-dry for at least 30 minutes before placing a new second skin. (During this time, do not apply lotion or any creams to your tattoo)

Day 2

Repeat the same steps as day 1 (listed above)

Do not reapply any more bandages after the scabbing/flaking phase of tattoo healing has begun. If your bandage is off during this phase, make sure to keep the area thoroughly (but lightly) moisturized. To remove adhesive residue from the skin, coconut oil and baby oil are helpful.

Days 3-5

Repeat the same steps for removing and placing a new second skin bandage as day 1 and 2 (listed above). However, this bandage will remain on for 3 days (from day 3 until day 5)

Day 5 (Last day of second skin)

Repeat the steps above to remove and wash your tattoo. After your tattoo has air dried, you can apply a thin layer of lotion or ointment (Hustle Butter, Lubriderm, Unscented lotion, etc.) Continue to wash your tattoo at least 2 times a day and apply lotion in thin layers 3 times daily. (Do not overhydrate the tattoo, as this can trap moisture and cause irritation.

Healing Process (4-5 weeks)

Once the first week of your tattoo aftercare, your tattoo may appear fully healed; however, the deepest layers of your skin will continue healing for up to 2 months.

Removing 2nd Skin

Find the bottom edge of the bandage and pull it down, away from itself. (Like a command strip)
The shower is the ideal place to remove 2nd skin.
Running water and soap will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable.
- Dry removal of Saniderm may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin.

While your tattoo is healing it’s common to have irritation because it’s an open wound with a high risk of infection if not treated properly. Some redness and irritation are to be expected and it’s important to know the difference between irritation and infection.

IRRITATION includes slight redness around the tattoo site, soreness, and weeping blood or plasma (red or clear mixed with ink colors from the tattoo). As long as you’re keeping your tattoo clean and hydrated, the healing process should go smoothly.

INFECTION comes with symptoms such as fever, viscus pus (green or yellow), and extreme redness spreading far beyond the tattoo area. If you have any questions or concerns, please visit our shop or email your artist with photos so we can advise further steps. If you have an extreme or prolonged reaction to the tattoo procedure and have an indication of infection of the skin or tissue, consult a health care professional.

Keep your tattoo as clean as possible and use common sense. If you have any questions, please reach out to your artist.

Some medical professionals are not familiar with the tattoo healing process. The goal is to heal the tattoo as gently as possible to keep it looking good. If you have any questions, contact your artist first!

Traditional

Your fresh tattoo will be bandaged and should remain that way for 2 hours (minimum) to 8 hours (maximum).

Before removing the bandage, clean your hands, sink, and surrounding area.
Carefully remove the bandage.
Wash the tattoo using your fingertips in a gentle circular motion with cool/lukewarm water and antibacterial, unscented soap (like Dial). This will help remove dried ink and blood.
- DO NOT PICK ANYTHING OFF YOUR TATTOO
Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a small amount of a rich, UNSCENTED lotion (Hustle Butter, A&D Ointment, Lubriderm, Eucerin, etc.).
- Use a small enough amount to give a slight shine to your tattoo, don’t goop it on.
Clean and lotion your tattoo a minimum of 2 times a day for the next 2 weeks.
Apply lotion as needed throughout the day (no more than 4 times a day).

Tips to protect your tattoo during the healing process

Avoid pools and/or hot tubs for at least 4 weeks.
Don’t go tanning or use a sauna for 2 months
No baths or swimming in lakes for at least 4 weeks
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 3-4 weeks, and apply a tattoo-safe sunscreen afterwards to protect your tattoo and uphold its longevity.
Don’t pick or scratch at your tattoo at any time during the healing process.

Keep your tattoo as clean as possible and use common sense. If you have any questions, please reach out to your artist.