Tattoo Aftercare

Second Skin bandage

Keep the bandage on for 4–5 days. Some fluid build-up underneath is normal. If it leaks, remove it and follow the standard bandage instructions below.

After 4–5 days, remove it gently under warm running water. Stretch the bandage from each side rather than peeling it like a bandaid; this lets the adhesive release without pulling ink from the tattoo.

Wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Once healing is underway, use an unscented, non-greasy lotion such as Aquaphor, Hustle Butter or Burt’s Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream.

Do not use Vaseline.

Standard bandage

1. Leave the bandage on for 2–3 hours, or as your artist instructs.
2. Wash your hands well before touching your tattoo.
3. Wash with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Gently remove any Vaseline, plasma and excess ink with your fingertips. Do not use anything abrasive.
4. Rinse and pat dry with a disposable paper towel, or let the tattoo air dry.
5. Wash twice a day — morning and night — until fully healed. Don’t over-wash. Regular showering is fine, but don’t submerge the tattoo in baths or swimming pools until it has healed.
6. The tattoo will get flaky, dry and tight over the next few days. Apply fragrance-free, non-greasy lotion 2–3 times daily, using it sparingly and rubbing it in fully. Don’t over-moisturize. Scabs take on the ink’s colour; this doesn’t mean the ink is falling out. Leave them alone — don’t pick or scratch. The tattoo may look dull until healed, which is normal and will pass in a few weeks. Wear loose clothing over the area.