Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Proper care of your new tattoo is essential to ensure optimal healing and longevity. Follow the steps below to maintain the quality and appearance of your tattoo.

1. Initial Protection:
   • Second Skin Bandage application: After the tattooing process, your artist may apply a Second Skin or similar adhesive bandage. This transparent, medical-grade barrier protects your tattoo during the initial healing phase.
   • Duration: Keep the bandage on for 1 to 3 days, with a maximum of 5 days, provided no adhesive irritation occurs.
   • Benefits: The bandage is waterproof, breathable, and hypoallergenic, keeping your tattoo clean and protected during the crucial early days when it’s considered an open wound.
   • Activities: While wearing the bandage, you can shower, but avoid submerging the tattoo in water (e.g., swimming or baths). It’s also generally safe to engage in light activities, but avoid excessive sweating.
   • Caution: Do not use if you have known allergies to medical adhesives. If you experience redness, itching, or irritation, remove the bandage promptly.
2. Removing the Bandage
   • Timing: Remove the bandage after 1 to 3 days, or sooner if you notice excessive fluid accumulation or irritation.
   • Procedure:
     • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
     • Gently peel back a corner of the bandage.
     • Remove the bandage slowly under warm running water, starting from the edges and working inward.
     • Take your time to minimize discomfort.
   • Note: It’s normal to see ink, plasma, and fluid accumulation under the bandage.
3. Cleaning Your Tattoo
   • Frequency: Wash your tattoo twice daily (morning and evening) for the next two weeks.
   • Method:
     • Use antibacterial, unscented soap—Dial Foaming Fragrance & Dye-Free is recommended.
     • With clean hands, gently lather the soap and apply to the tattooed area.
     • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
     • Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow to air dry.
4. Moisturizing
   • Frequency: Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion twice daily. Lubriderm is recommended.
   • Guidelines:
     • Avoid petroleum-based products, as they can clog pores and delay healing.
     • Apply just enough lotion to keep the skin hydrated; over-application can suffocate the skin.
5. Long-Term Care
   • Sun Protection: Once healed, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to the tattooed area when exposed to the sun. This helps prevent fading and maintains the tattoo’s vibrancy.
6. What to Avoid
   • Do Not:
     • Pick, scratch, or peel the tattoo, as this can cause scarring and uneven healing.
     • Expose the tattoo to direct sunlight during the healing process.
     • Submerge the tattoo in water (pools, hot tubs, baths) until fully healed.

By adhering to this aftercare regimen, you’ll promote proper healing and preserve the quality of your tattoo for years to come.