General Aftercare Instructions
Healing procedures are unique to the artists. It is important you ask your artist directly for their procedures at the time of the tattoo.
BANDAGED HEALING INSTRUCTIONS:
Wraps like Hypafix or Saniderm are recommended for healing. Ask your artist what they used.
Leave the wrap on for 48–72 hours.
If your tattoo wasn’t wrapped, don’t wrap it later—follow natural healing instead.
REMOVING YOUR SECOND SKIN
Removing Your Bandage:
Gently lift a corner and use warm water and soap to loosen the adhesive—don’t rip it off. This may take 20–60 minutes. Once removed, rinse, pat dry, and apply a small amount of lotion. If skin remains sticky, contact your artist.
Some find dry removal easier.
After day 3, use a fragrance-free cream lotion sparingly. Let the area fully dry between washes and lotion. Avoid sweating, sun, hot tubs, and chlorine for 4–6 weeks. Flaky skin is normal.
NATURAL HEALING INSTRUCTIONS:
Don’t bump or rub your fresh tattoo. Keep it dry for 24 hours. When showering, avoid direct water on the tattoo. Gently wash around it with fragrance-free soap, pat dry, and use lotion sparingly after day 3. Avoid sweat, sun, hot tubs, and chlorine for 4–6 weeks. Let the area dry fully between washes and lotion.
Tattoo Healing Overview (2–8 Weeks):
Healing times vary, but aftercare is key. Your tattoo will go through four stages:
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Days 1–2 (Redness & Weeping):
Fluid buildup under a medical-grade bandage is normal. Don’t remove or pop the wrap. A red ring around the bandage may indicate a mild adhesive reaction—contact your artist if concerned. -
Days 3–5 (Itching):
Your tattoo may itch and flake. Don’t scratch. Apply fragrance-free lotion sparingly and let the area dry fully. An ice pack (over clothing) can help with itching. -
Days 4–10 (Peeling):
Your tattoo may peel like a sunburn. Don’t pick at the flaking skin—it must fall off naturally to avoid damaging your tattoo. -
Days 7–30+ (Ongoing Aftercare):
Even when your tattoo looks healed, continue aftercare. Keep moisturizing and protect it from the sun to maintain its look.
Note: Healing methods may vary—always follow your artist’s specific instructions.