The healing process will take up to 4 weeks in total. Please follow these instructions throughout this period. ALWAYS HANDLE YOUR NEW TATTOO WITH CLEAN HANDS. If your tattoo is bandaged with Second Skin you should keep the bandage on for 3-6 days.

The second skin is waterproof so feel free to take showers with it. Do not swim and/or bathe at all though. Keep in mind that there is a possibility of water leaking into the bandage when having a shower so keep an eye on that. If you do notice water leaking into the bandage -TAKE THE BANDAGE OFF IMMEDIATELY-  and carry on with standard aftercare instructions listed in the other pamphlet given to you in the aftercare baggie. It is normal to see some fluid build-up beneath the bandage. The fluid is a mixture of blood, plasma and excess ink seeping out. If the bandage begins to leak, you must remove the bandage and again follow the standard aftercare instructions listed in the other pamphlet. If you experience an allergic reaction to the adhesive (itchiness, redness on the outer edge of the second skin) take off the second skin.

After 3-6 days, remove the second skin bandage gently under warm running water. To take the bandage off you must stretch from each side rather than peel it off like a Band-Aid. When you stretch the bandage it allows the adhesive to come off the skin without disrupting the tattoo. Your tattoo might get “printed“ onto the second skin when you peel it off. This is normal. Your tattoo is still there.

Wash the tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap or warm water. At this point, your tattoo should be well into the healing process - you may now use an ointment IF I recommend it. Most of the time you don’t need ointment. Apply a THIN layer of ointment on the tattoo - do not over-apply.

DO NOT moisturize your tattoo with anything containing Vaseline or Oil – this does not let the skin and the new tattoo breathe and may have the same effect as soaking your fresh tattoo in water.

Remember to keep your tattoo out of the sun for the first few weeks of healing. When the tattoo is completely healed apply a good SPF sunscreen on the tattoo to prevent fading. NO SUNSCREEN WHILE YOUR TATTOO IS STILL HEALING. Looking after your skin, in general, will aid in your tattoo’s longevity.