Caring for your new tattoo
Learn how to properly care for your fresh ink with this detailed, step-by-step guide. The next few weeks are critical to ensure your tattoo heals well and looks its best as it ages.
Second Skin
The goal is to keep the Second Skin on for 3 to 5 days (5 is best for healing), but depending on how well adhesives stick to your skin, it may not hold for that long. If it comes off early, skip ahead to the cleaning process.
There will be some ink, blood, or other discharge coming from the tattoo, and can often form an "ink sack" or patchy, dry-looking ink splotches under the bandage. If you've never worn Second Skin, this can be alarming to see, but it is very normal (and good) at the start of the healing process.
The bandage is waterproof, so you are able to shower with it, but avoid bathing or soaking. It's also best to avoid working out while bandaged.
When you take it off, remember to peel down (not away) from the skin. This is usually easier under some warm water/in the shower. Once off, clean immediately using the steps below.
Cleaning & Moisturizing
Gently clean the tattoo with Dial Gold soap (or another soap that is alcohol and fragrance free).
When finished cleaning, pat dry with a clean paper towel, or let the tattoo air dry. Avoid regular towels, as these tend to carry a lot of bacteria, and the goal while healing is to avoid infection.
Once completely dry, use a th in layer of Aquaphor (or another moisturizer that is alcohol and fragrance free) to moisturize. You don't need a lot.
Repeat this cleaning + moisturizing procedure twice a day for two weeks after the bandage comes off.
Healing
It's normal to experience itchiness (like, a lot of itchiness), redness, scabbing and swelling on or immediately around your new tattoo. It's going to look weird for a couple of weeks before it's fully healed.
Avoid swimming pools, jacuzzis, saunas, or other bodies of water for the first 2 to 4 weeks after your appointment. You'll also want to avoid long sun exposure. All of these things have a high risk of disrupting the healing process or infecting your tattoo.
Your tattoo should be completely healed after 3 to 4 weeks.
All tattoos will change over time, and it's up to you now to take care of it as it ages. Moisturize your tattoo every day, and remember to wear sunscreen—it's your best weapon against tattoo aging!