Your second skin bandage acts as a sealed, breathable, and water-resistant barrier to provide your tattoo with uninterrupted healing.
-Leave your bandage on for about 4-5 days, unless your skin is irritated or has a reaction to the adhesive- in this case, remove it immediately.
-Your bandage may be removed in the shower under warm water.
-Some clients choose to redress the 'derm' bandage after a day or so. This is not required, but if you choose to do this, similar products such as Saniderm or Tegaderm can be purchased at a Target, Walgreens, Amazon, etc.
-After the duration of time in the bandage, remove in the shower under warm water WITH CLEAN HANDS and hand wash gently with mild soap. Some products I like to recommend are Dr. Bronners castile soap (dilluted with distilled water), Dial Gold antibacterial, Cetaphil, Dove unscented, or a basic mild and fragrance free/hypoallergenic soap of your choosing.
- Apply a thin layer of moisterizer as needed, each time. Less is more with products such as Aquaphor or any type of ointment or balm.
-There are now many great tattoo healing products out there such as Mad Rabbit, Badger Balm, Recovery Balm and other natural ointments. I personally like Aquaphor for a little extra punch of moisture, as we do live in a super dry climate. Skin conditioning oils are also great once the skin is sealed, to help your tattoo stand out. Some clients prefer lotions such as Curel and Lubriderm. If you would like further recommendations, please reach out!
-Direct sunlight. Cover your tattoo from the blaring sun as much as possible for at least 2-3 weeks. UV shirts are great for outdoors folks! Sunblock is a must, once tattoo is fully sealed (about 2 weeks.)
-Excessive stretching and pulling on the skin; this can 'blow out' or spread your ink prematurely, especially in areas with thinner skin. Please refrain from over use or workout where you have a fresh tattoo for at least 2 weeks.
-Rubbing, friction, or carrying things on the tattoo. This includes small children, pets, boxes, backpacks/shoulder bags, boots, or anywhere you might have this over your tattoo.
-Animal hair/dander and saliva is an irritant- please keep pets off of/away from your fresh tattoo, until it is fully seald. This also includes any clothing or bedsheets that have animal hair and dander.
-Changing cat litter with a fresh tattoo should be avoided as well, if it is close to the exposed area.
-Gardening, construction, remodeling, cleaning or anything that kicks up dust, debris, chemicals, bacteria should be avoided or if necessary, made sure your tattoo is sufficiently protected; second skin and additional protective and soft clothing or a second topical barrier is recommended.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with further questions or concerns!!