Traditional bandage or standard aftercare

• Remove the bandage no sooner than 4 hours and do not keep on longer than overnight.
• Wash the tattoo gently, but well, removing any blood or ointment. Use a mild soap and warm to hot water using only your fingers. Rinse well to remove all soap. BLOT DRY AND DO NOT RUB. No rubbing OR SCRATCHING until your tattoo is completely healed,
• Allow the tattoo to air dry for about 30-60 minutes, DO NOT apply another bandage
• Some artists will recommend beginning this next step immediately after the bandage is removed while others may recommend the aftercare to begin the next day after the first wash (This recommendation can be based on the particular style in which the tattoo was done, size and or density of pigment saturation)
• Begin applying a VERY THIN film of aftercare lotion, (fragrance free skin moisturizer like AfterInk or Hustle Butter lotion) no more than 3 times a day in order to keep your tattoo moisturized. It is VERY IMPORTANT to use the smallest amount of aftercare product so that your tattoo does not appear wet or gooey in any way from the lotion or ointment. This process will prevent a scab from forming.
• Your tattoo should peel like a sunburn in the next few days. If a scab should form it is very important not to pick or tamper with it. It will flake off naturally in several days.
• ALWAYS keep your tattoo clean. DO NOT soak in a tub, jacuzzi or pool for at least two weeks or if there are any remaining scabs adhering to the tattoo.
• Always blot dry until your tattoo is healed. Abrasion from towels as well as clothing it’s not good for healing tattoo.
• Your tattoo MUST be protected from the sun while it is healing. After the tattoo is healed we recommend the use of a good sun block.
• We recommend the use of the aftercare lotion for 3-4 days, then you could switch to Hustle Butter ointment or a good quality, fragrance free skin moisturizer. Continue to use for about 2 weeks until your tattoo is healed. Your tattoo will remain bright, crisp, and clear if you take care of your skin. Remember… your tattoo can only look as good as your skin…. so continue to moisturize daily.

Second skin aftercare instructions

Please note that the following is a general guide to second skin aftercare products. It’s essential to follow the specific instructions given by your tattoo artist. If you have any concerns or experience a reaction, contact them immediately.

• Your tattoo artist will apply a second skin bandage to your new tattoo. This clears film is both waterproof and breathable.
• Leave this bandage on for the amount of time recommended by your artist, which is typically 24-72 hours. This initial period allows the bandage to collect blood, plasma, and excess ink, which is a normal and crucial part of the healing process. It’s often referred to as “weeping.”
• If you notice the fluid leaking out from under the bandage, or if the bandage peels to expose any part of the tattoo, you should remove it, wash the tattoo, and follow the instructions for applying a new second skin bandage or follow the standard aftercare instructions.
• Removing the Bandage
• After the recommend time (usually 24-74 hours), remove the bandage.
• The best way to do this is in a shower with warm, running water. This helps to loosen the adhesive and makes the removal process less painful.
• Gently peel the bandage back over itself, like you would peel a banana.
• Wash the tattoo immediately with a mild, fragrance-free, antibacterial soap. Use only your clean hands to gently lather and clean the area. Do not use a washcloth, sponge, or anything abrasive.
• Rinse the tattoo thoroughly with warm water.
• Applying a Second Bandage after the first 24 hours (Optional)
• Some artists recommend applying another Second Skin bandage for a longer healing period. If your artist gave you a second piece, or you have your own.
• Make sure the tattoo and the skin around it are completely dry. You can pat it gently with a clean paper towel and then let it air dry for 10-20 minutes.
• Apply the new bandage, ensuring it extends at least one inch beyond the tattooed area on all sides.
• The second bandage can be left on for 3 to 5 days (or as directed by your artist). * During this time, you can shower as normal, but avoid baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, or any full submersion of the tattoo. Excessive heat and soaking can weaken the adhesive and introduce bacteria. * It’s normal to see fluid build-up under the bandage. This is the body’s natural healing plasma and is beneficial for the tattoo.

Post second skin Healing instructions

• After the final bandage is removed (again, best done in the shower with warm water), you will continue with standard aftercare.
• Wash the tattoo with a gentle, antibacterial soap at least twice a day.
• Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel.
• After the tattoo is dry, apply a very thin layer of a fragrance-free, water-based lotion. Do not use petroleum-based products like Vaseline or A&D ointment, which can clog pores and hinder healing.
• Continue washing and moisturizing your tattoo for about two weeks, or until the peeling and dryness have completely stopped.
• Do not pick or scratch at the tattoo. Let any peeling skin flake off on its own.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure, saltwater, and chlorine for at least 4 weeks. * Never re-bandage the tattoo after the final Second Skin bandage is removed.