Your tattoo is an investment. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your new artwork heals perfectly and lasts a lifetime. Follow these guidelines carefully.
Second Skin / Saniderm
Leave it on for 3-5 days
The bandage protects your new tattoo from dirt and bacteria while it's most vulnerable. It's normal for fluid (blood, ink, and plasma) to collect under the bandage. Leave it intact unless it leaks or the skin becomes exposed.
Removal Process
Remove the bandage in the shower. The warm water will help loosen the adhesive. Find an edge and pull the bandage back over itself slowly, rather than pulling it away from the skin. Once removed, wash the tattoo immediately with unscented antibacterial soap.
Traditional Healing
Washing
Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day using clean hands, warm water, and unscented antibacterial soap (like Dial Gold). Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Never use a cloth towel.
Moisturizing
Apply a paper-thin layer of unscented lotion (like Lubriderm or Aquaphor) after washing. Do not over-moisturize. The tattoo needs to breathe to heal properly.
Peeling & Itching
After a few days, the tattoo will start to flake and peel like a sunburn. It will itch. DO NOT SCRATCH OR PICK AT IT. Let the skin fall off naturally.
What to Avoid
No swimming, hot tubs, or baths for at least 2-3 weeks. Showers are fine. Keep it out of direct sunlight while healing.
Long-Term Care
The sun is the absolute worst enemy of your tattoo. Once fully healed (about 3-4 weeks), always apply a high SPF sunscreen to your tattoos when exposed to the sun. This will prevent fading, blurring, and keep the dark, surreal details of your piece looking sharp for decades.