Below are 2 healing processes depending on if your artist used a traditional bandage or second skin.

Traditional bandage

DAY 1-2:

  • Leave initial bandage on until evening

  • Remove bandage under warm running water

  • Wash with antibacterial soap and warm water until all sliminess is removed

  • You may wrap with plastic wrap only while sleeping, no ointments, wash immediately upon waking, do not wrap during the day

  • Wash with antibacterial soap and warm water 3X's a day
    No ointments are needed at this point

DAY 3-4:

  • Continue washing 3X's a day, but now begin to apply a small amount of a white unscented lotion after every wash

  • Make sure the lotion is absorbed into the skin and not wet to the touch

DAY 5+:

  • Begin applying lotion more frequently as needed to keep the skin hydrated but never wet.

  • You will begin to notice peeling similar to a sunburn, this is normal and expected!

NO PICKING. NO SCRATCHING.

NO SWIMMING. NO TANNINING

Until tattoo has finished peeling (About 2 weeks)

Second Skin

  • Leave your second skin on for at least two days, but you can leave it on for up to a week as long as the seal is not broken

  • Remove your second skin in a warm shower

  • Start at a top corner, and pull towards your skin, like a command strip, instead of away from your skin, like a bandaid

  • If you notice your bandage peeling up and exposing any of your tattoo, leaking, or if there is a puncture anywhere, you will want to remove it so bacteria does not get trapped inside, and follow the next steps.

  • Wash with unscented soap (I use Dial antibacterial soap) for the following week or until it does not feel like a scab anymore. Pat dry with a CLEAN paper towel.

  • You can use Aquaphor for about 2 days after removing your bandage. Aquaphor makes a spray now! :D I prefer to use this on my tattoos, since you can wash it and not have to touch it again to apply. (You can get it here- https://amzn.to/3N23EIk) 

  • After that, switch to using unscented lotion. Cetaphil moisturizing lotion or Lubriderm unscented lotion works great.

  • DO NOT substitute Vaseline for Aquaphor - it will not allow your tattoo to breathe. If Aquaphor is unavailable, look for a generic A&D ointment.

  • DO NOT submerge your tattoo in ANY water (bath tub, hot tubs, pools, oceans, lakes, etc.) for the following two weeks.

  • Do not do any extreme physical activity (running, lifting weights, yoga, etc.) for about 48 hours. This allows the ink to settle into the skin.

  • Do not pick or scratch at your tattoo. You can pat GENTLY, or apply lotion to help with any itching.

  • For the remainder of healing your tattoo, be sure to wash it if you get sweaty, come in contact with dirty surfaces, pets or other people.

  • Avoid direct sun, tight clothing, artificial fragrances.