AFTER CARE

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Second Skin

The second skin bandage can be removed after 1-5 days. Everyone is different when it comes to this type of bandage, so do what feels comfortable for you and your body! If the bandage begins to lift, leak, or the tattoo becomes itchy, uncomfortable, or an abnormal reaction occurs, remove the bandage. If the area around the bandage becomes inflamed or itchy, remove the bandage as it may be a reaction to the adhesive.

A large amount of brown liquid may form inside the bandage, you can either leave it alone if it’s contained within the second skin, or remove it if it begins to leak out.

Remove the bandage by pulling down on the corners (like a command strip). Avoid peeling it back as it could damage the tattoo and remove ink. Hop in the shower to help loosen the adhesive and give your tattoo a good wash with unscented soap. Dove unscented bar soap, Cetaphil, or Cereve cleansing bar are all great options. Lather the suds up in your hands and apply it to the tattoo, making sure you get the “gooey layer” completely off.

Gently pat the tattoo dry with clean paper towel. Let the tattoo dry off a bit before covering it with clothing.

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Black Bandage

Remove after no more than 24 hours and follow the same washing instructions as above. Black bandages are usually used for tattoos that have lots of colour or shading as they are more absorbent. They are also used for anyone that may have an adhesive allergy or aversion to the second skin bandage.

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Things to remember when healing your tattoo:

Loose clothing is best for the week or two following your tattoo.
Make sure to wash your tattoo at least once a day, especially after excessive sweating.
Only apply lotion once your tattoo has reached the dry and flaky stage (usually about 4-5 days into healing).
We typically recommend Aveeno or Lubriderm lotion - it’s up to you as long as it’s water based and unscented.
Avoid coconut oil or any petroleum based products as it can suffocate the tattoo, clog pores, and slow healing.
Ensure the lotion is rubbed into the tattoo, and only apply 1-2 times per day if needed. For extra itchy tattoos, keep your lotion in the fridge - it feels awesome!
No baths, pools, lakes, hot tubs, etc. for two weeks or until the tattoo is fully healed.
No direct sun, not even with sunscreen.
Try to sleep on clean sheets with no furry friends (I know it’s hard!)
No overly sweaty workouts or letting your tattoo touch equipment or random stuff. Make sure to wear clothing that covers it if you do go to the gym.
If your tattoo is warm and swollen, you can use an ice pack as long as the bandage is still on (no ice packs directly on a fresh tattoo).
Try not to touch the tattoo or surrounding area with unwashed hands.
No scratching or picking at your tattoo!

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There are 1000 variations on how to heal a tattoo, but this is the method most of us use at the shop. If you have found a way to heal that works for you and isn’t exactly like this, go wild!

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Our artists typically offer a free touch up within 6 months of the tattoo. Just reach out to them with any questions!

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Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
If an infection occurs, please contact a medical professional immediately.