THE INITIAL BANDAGE

After getting your tattoo, I will apply Second Skin, a transparent, breathable, water-resistant film that adheres to the skin for several days. However, if you have previously experienced adverse side effects from Second Skin, such as rashes, allergies, or infections, I will use an alternative approach. In such cases, I will apply Vaseline to the area and wrap the tattoo with cling film instead.

For those with Second Skin applied: Leave it on for 2 to 4 days, and when you remove it, immediately begin your cleaning routine. To reapply a second piece, ensure your tattoo is clean (follow the cleaning instructions provided below) and use only paper towels to dry it. Make sure the tattoo is completely dry before applying the new Second Skin.

For those with cling film applied: Remove the cling film after 3 to 5 hours, and then begin your cleaning routine (follow the cleaning instructions provided below).

Regardless of the method used, once the bandage is removed, avoid re-wrapping the tattoo with anything else. Allow it to breathe with minimal obstruction, such as tight clothing or sleeping on it.

Tips to remove the second skin:

  • Do it slowly in the shower using warm water.

  • Instead of pulling the second skin straight up from the skin, gently pull the film back and across the skin while holding your skin taut.

CLEANING ROUTINE

Once either bandage is removed, it is important to follow a cleaning routine for 2.5 weeks to ensure proper healing of your tattoo.

  • Washing Frequency: Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day using only non-scented liquid soap. There are various options available, but if you are unsure about a specific product affecting your tattoo, it's best to consult a pharmacist for recommendations.

  • Washing Technique: Lather your tattoo with the soap and water for approximately 20 seconds during each wash. Use a light and circular motion while being gentle (avoid excessive force or scrubbing). After washing, gently dab your tattoo dry using only paper towels. Regular towels can harbor bacteria and should not be used on an open wound.

  • Avoid Immersion: Refrain from immersing your tattoo in water until it stops scabbing and flaking, which typically occurs after 3-4 weeks. Immersion in water during the early stages of healing can disrupt the formation of scabs and potentially lead to complications and ink fallouts.

  • Scab Management: Allow the scabs to naturally fall off on their own. Avoid picking at or scratching the scabs, as this can interfere with the healing process and may result in suboptimal tattoo appearance or even infection.

  • Soap recommendations: Dr Bronner's unscented, Dove (bar) unscented

MOISTURIZING

  • Delay Moisturizing: For the first week after getting your tattoo, refrain from applying moisturizer. If your tattoo is large and dark, you may want to wait even longer. It is important to allow the tattoo to appear fully dry and visibly flaking or scabbing before introducing any moisturizer. In some cases, you may choose to "dry heal" your tattoo by not using any moisturizer at all.

  • Moisturizing Frequency: Once the tattoo has reached the appropriate stage of dryness and visible flaking/scabbing, you can start applying a thin film of non-scented moisturizer. It is recommended to moisturize your tattoo no more than twice a day. Over-moisturizing can clog pores, hinder the healing process, and create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, potentially leading to infections.

  • Choosing the Right Moisturizer: Opt for a non-scented moisturizer specifically formulated for sensitive skin. These types of moisturizers are less likely to contain additives that can irritate the tattooed area or interfere with the healing process. Do not use coconut oil or petroleum jelly.

  • Application Technique: Apply the moisturizer in a thin and even layer, gently massaging it into the tattooed skin. Ensure that the moisturizer is fully absorbed and does not leave a greasy residue on the surface of the tattoo.

  • Moisturizer recommendations: Lubriderm unscented, Aquaphor unscented

SUN

  • Sun Avoidance: For at least a month after getting your tattoo, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Sunlight can be harmful to a fresh tattoo and may affect the vibrance of the ink. It is recommended to keep your tattoo shaded from the sun using loose clothing. However, be mindful not to suffocate the tattoo, as proper airflow is important for its healing process.

  • Sunscreen Protection: after your tattoo has fully healed, it is essential to apply sunscreen regularly to protect it from the sun's harmful rays. Sun exposure over time can cause tattoos to fade and lose their original vibrancy. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously to your tattooed skin whenever it will be exposed to sunlight.

  • Delayed Sunscreen Application: It is important not to apply sunscreen to a fresh tattoo until it has fully healed. Allow approximately four weeks of healing time before applying sunscreen to the tattooed area. Applying sunscreen too soon may irritate the healing process and potentially cause adverse effects.

OTHER CONSDERATIONS

  • Avoid Alcohol and Blood Thinners: It is recommended to refrain from consuming alcohol, aspirin, or any other blood thinners for at least 24 hours before and after getting your tattoo. These substances can thin the blood and may increase the risk of excessive bleeding during the tattooing process or hinder the healing process afterward.

  • Limit Physical Activity: It is advisable to avoid engaging in intense physical activities such as sports or going to the gym for at least two days after getting your tattoo. Excess sweat during the early stages of healing can potentially cause complications and interfere with the healing process. Give your body time to rest and recover, allowing your tattoo to heal properly.

STAGES OF HEALING:

  • Stage One (Week 1-2): During this stage, you may experience oozing, swelling, bleeding, and redness around the tattooed area. These symptoms gradually improve over the course of each day. Scabbing will begin to form as the healing process progresses. It's normal for some bleeding, including blood and plasma, to occur for up to 36-48 hours.

  • Stage Two (Week 2-3): In this stage, you may experience itching and flaking as the tattooed skin starts to shed dead skin cells and scabs. This process continues until all layers of dead skin have naturally fallen off.

  • Stage Three (Week 4-5): Your tattoo will appear fully healed during this stage, but it may still have a slightly cloudy or shiny appearance. This is due to the deeper layers of skin continuing to repair themselves. It's important to continue caring for your tattoo during this period to support complete healing.

Note: Tattoos with significant amounts of black ink may require additional time to fully heal. It can take up to 3 months for the tattoo to completely heal and for the ink to settle into the skin.