Tattoo Aftercare

Guide & Healing Tips

Everything you need to know about healing your tattoo properly, from traditional aftercare to second-skin healing methods like Saniderm or Dermshield.

Once you leave the studio, the healing process is in your hands. Proper aftercare plays a huge role in how your tattoo settles, heals, and ages over time.

AFTERCARE_

Second Skin / Saniderm

Proper aftercare is essential for your tattoo to heal safely and beautifully.
Healing times vary depending on placement, skin type, and lifestyle. Areas with a lot of movement (hands, elbows, knees, ribs, etc.) may take slightly longer to heal.

If you have any questions during healing, feel free to contact me.

What is Second Skin?

Second Skin products such as Saniderm, Dermshield, or similar adhesive bandages are designed to protect your fresh tattoo while supporting a cleaner and faster healing process.

The bandage creates a protective barrier against dirt and bacteria while still allowing the tattoo to breathe. With proper use, healing is often faster and more comfortable compared to traditional cling film healing.

The First Days

During the first 24–48 hours, it is completely normal for the tattoo to release plasma, excess ink, and small amounts of blood underneath the bandage. This may look dark, messy, or like ink pockets, this is normal.

Day 0 – Day 3

Keep the Second Skin bandage on for up to 3 days unless:

  • the bandage starts leaking

  • the adhesive peels off significantly

  • water or dirt gets underneath

  • you experience irritation or an allergic reaction

During this phase:

  • Avoid picking at the corners of the bandage. Even small openings can expose the tattoo to bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

  • Do not poke or drain the “ink sack” that forms underneath the bandage. The buildup of plasma, blood, and ink is completely normal.

  • Exception: if the pressure or wetness underneath becomes uncomfortable or tender, you may remove the bandage earlier.

Removing the Bandage

  • Always wash your hands first

  • Remove the bandage slowly under lukewarm running water

  • Stretch the adhesive outward rather than pulling directly upward

  • Clean the tattoo gently using pH-neutral soap

  • Pat dry using a clean disposable paper towel

  • Let the tattoo air dry briefly

Important:

During the first 3 healing days, you do not need to wash or apply lotion to the tattoo while it is covered by the breathable bandage.

Once the bandage is removed, begin washing the tattoo normally and continue with standard aftercare.

If the bandage is removed before the 3-day mark, continue washing the tattoo as usual, but wait until day 3 before applying aftercare lotion.

Day 3 – Day 14

Around day 3 or 4, the tattoo will usually begin peeling or lightly scabbing. It may become itchy, this is a normal part of healing.

At this stage:

  • Begin applying a thin layer of unscented aftercare lotion 2–3 times daily

  • Do not over-apply products

  • Let the tattoo breathe whenever possible

Do not scratch, pick, or force peeling skin to come off. Allow the tattoo to heal naturally.