Aftercare

Instructions

Traditional Healing

  • Carefully remove wrap/bandage after 2-4 hours.

  • With clean hands, gently and thoroughly wash your tattoo using water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.

    • Recommended soaps: Dial Gold, Dove Sensitive Bar Soap, or Dr. Bronner's Unscented.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Let the tattoo air dry for 15-20 mins.

  • Once the tattoo dries, apply a VERY THIN layer of Aquaphor. Gently rub it in, then dab off any excess with another clean paper towel.

  • Afterwards, wash your tattoo 1-2 times a day for the next two weeks. Use Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days then switch to unscented lotion.

    • Recommended lotions: Lubriderm, Cetaphil, CeraVe, or Aveeno.

Second Skin

  • Keep initial bandage on for 3-5 days.

  • After x days, slowly remove the bandage under warm running water by gently stretching it from the edges to loosen the adhesive.

  • Transition to traditional aftercare. Wash your tattoo 1-2 times a day for the next week or two. Use lotion when your tattoo is dry.

    ——————

  • If plasma is leaking out of the adhesive or the edges are lifted off the tattooed area, the seal is broken and must be removed.

  • Within 24 hours, wash using water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Once it dries, you may reapply another second skin. Leave at least a 1-inch border around the tattoo.
    or

  • If 24 hours have passed, remove the second skin and heal the traditional way.

Things to Know

  • Tattoos usually heal in 2 to 4 weeks.

  • It's highly recommended to use clean towels, bedding, and clothes during the healing process.

Things to Avoid

  • No itching, scratching, or picking at scabs.

  • No harsh soaps or exfoliating products. Do not scrub your fresh tattoos.

  • Do not submerge your tattoo in water. No swimming, baths, hot tubs, saunas, etc. Showers are ok.

  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Keep tattoos out of the sun by wearing clothes. Do not use sunscreen during the healing process.

  • Avoid tight clothing over the tattooed area.

  • Avoid strenuous exercising. Wait 48 hours before light activities. Wash your tattoo immediately after exercise.

    Don’t over moisturize. Use unscented lotion 1-2 times a day or as needed.

Signs & Symptoms of Infection

While mild redness and irritation are normal, please seek medical help right away if you notice:

  • A fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

  • Redness or swelling that worsens after 2–3 days

  • Thick yellow or green discharge with odor

  • Chills, fever, or increasing pain that gets worse

  • Red streaks coming from the tattoo