Initial Bandage Care

If you're wearing a clear Tagaderm-type bandage (often referred to as second skin), remove it after 4-6 days. If you notice any redness around the edges of the bandage, remove it sooner, as this could indicate an allergic reaction to the adhesive.

When removing the bandage, ensure your hands are clean. It's best to do this in the shower, allowing warm water to run over the bandage to loosen it. Gently peel it off, being careful not to tug or damage the tattoo.

Once removed, wash your tattoo with unscented soap. If you’re wearing a different type of bandage, remove it the following morning in the shower and wash the tattoo with unscented soap. (If I gave you another piece of second skin now is the time to put it on).

Removing the bandage

Tip: For easier removal, take the bandage off at the end of a warm shower to help loosen it. Peel it gently from top to bottom, allowing the wrap to come off over itself.

Avoid Excess moisture and sweat

During the time the bandage is on, avoid vigorous exercise. Sweat and moisture trapped under the bandage can affect the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

weeping plasma

It’s normal for your tattoo to “weep” plasma during the first few days. This will collect inside the second skin, and you can gently wash it off when you remove the bandage.

clothing

Wear clean, soft, breathable clothing over your tattoo to protect it. Avoid tight or abrasive fabrics that could irritate the area.

daily cleaning

For the first two weeks, wash your tattoo twice a day (morning and night) with a mild, unscented soap. Recommended brands include Dove, Neutrogena, or similar. Avoid soaps with alcohol as one of the main ingredients, as they can irritate the skin.

avoid scrubbing

Never use a washcloth or loofah on your tattoo—always use your clean hands to wash it gently.

avoid submerging

For the first two weeks, do not soak or submerge your tattoo in water. This includes baths, swimming, hot tubs, saunas etc. Showers are fine, but try to minimize direct exposure to the shower stream.

don’t overwash

Overwashing can strip away the natural oils that aid in healing. Wash your tattoo gently, but don’t overdo it.

apply a light layer of ointment

After washing, apply a light layer of ointment or unscented lotion. Gently tap it onto the tattoo instead of rubbing it in. Overapplying can suffocate your tattoo, which may lead to ink loss or infection. If you accidentally use too much, blot it with a paper towel to remove the excess.

Recommended Products:

• Ointments: Hustle Butter, Tattoo Goo

• Lotions: Aveeno, Glaxal Base, EltaMD

peeling and itching

Your tattoo will begin to flake and peel, similar to how sunburn skin would. Do not pick or peel at the scabs, as this can damage the tattoo and pull out ink, especially in finer details. Minimize friction by avoiding tight or abrasive clothing that may rub against the tattoo. Itching is a normal part of the healing process. If it gets uncomfortable, apply lotion or ointment to soothe the area. Do not scratch.

**when to seek medical attention**

In very rare cases a tattoo can become infected. It is best to seek medical attention right away just to be safe.