Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
A tattoo is MORE than just a piece of art and a way to assert your personal style. It’s a medical procedure too. Caring for your tattoo can prevent complications and ensure that the tattoo heals properly.
- After 8-24 hours, depending on the amount of “ink sack” which is simply blood, excess ink and plasma build-up (*if there is little to no visible build-up, it is NOT necessary to change the bandage), remove the first second skin bandage that was applied by the artist. For best results slowly remove in the shower/underwater. Next, gently clean the area with a mild unscented soap and use paper towel to pat dry.
- Once the tattoo and surrounding area are clean and completely dry, carefully remove the white backing paper on the new piece of second skin. Ensure the area is in a natural and relaxed position then apply. Once the new second skin bandage is applied and smoothed over, remove the patterned/shiny hard top. Your Second Skin bandage can be worn for up to 5 days…. Afterwards,
- Remember that a tattoo is a wound. When you’re ready to remove the second skin, treat your tattoo like you would any other skin injury. Wash your hands before touching your tattoo and carefully wash the area with soap and water. Always use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
- Keep it moist, but let it breathe….continue your healing with aftercare cream and follow instructions until your tattoo is 100% healed (approx. 3 weeks). Apply only as needed (dry or itchy) 1-2 times daily with clean hands. A tattoo is an open wound, keeping it clean and safe from bacteria is crucial.
- Cover up when you’re in the sun. Opt for loose-fitting, sun-protective clothing until your tattoo heals. Pile on the SPF (*only when healed) — tattooed skin isn’t immune to UV rays or premature aging.
- Don’t rub your skin dry — pat it gently to avoid irritation.
- Don’t over hydrate your new tattoo or wear heavily fragranced lotions or sunscreen until your tattoo is fully healed, because the chemicals or minerals could irritate your broken skin.
- Don’t pick, scratch, or rub your tattoo until it’s healed. You could cause scarring or ink lifting.
- Don’t swim, soak in a hot tub, or take a bath until your tattoo has healed completely (3-4 weeks). Opt for a shower instead.
- Don’t exercise causing sweat buildup while using second skin bandage.
DO NOT USE Petroleum-based ointments:
- These thicker products are NOT the best option once you begin healing your new tattoo, as these products can prevent your skins ability to breathe and heal. Petroleum based ointments include A&D ointment, Aquaphor Advanced Healing Ointments (such as polysporin), and petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline).
Soaps: Use a fragrance-free, mild soap such as: Dial, Dove, or Neutrogena
Moisturizers:
- As your tattoo starts to heal and the scabs fall off, reach for a gentle moisturizer as needed.
- Baby care lotions and creams work well on tattoos, but always choose fragrance-free varieties!
- These easy-to-find lotions and creams are solid choices:
- Eucerin, Curel, Aveeno, Lubriderm
Tattoo Healing balms: There are now some amazing specialty products out now that are certified organic AND vegan, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It's a conscientious choice for any tattoo enthusiast. .
Tattoos and coconut oil: A love story
Looking for an affordable, natural way to keep your tattoo protected? Look no further than your kitchen. Coconut oil is a super popular tattoo aftercare product.
The oil is a natural analgesic (pain reliever) and has anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing properties, so it makes sense to use it on your newly inked skin. Make sure you choose virgin coconut oil, which is solid at room temp, over refined versions that are liquid.
