Keep it Covered
Do not touch or let anyone else touch the freshly tattooed area. Keep your new tattoo covered to protect it from bacteria.  Leave the SecondSkin on for 3-4 days.

It is normal for blood, plasma and sweat to accumulate under the bandage. If excessive amounts of fluid are under the bandage, remove it and continue with steps.

If you find the skin becomes irritated and red under the bandage, remove it and continue with instructions. Some people with eczema or sensitive skin can become irritated or develop a rash from the bandage.

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Removing Bandage
We recommend that you remove the SecondSkin in the shower, allowing water to wash over the tattoo and SecondSkin as you remove it.

Washing Your Tattoo
Use lukewarm water and an anti-bacterial foaming hand wash to gently wash the area.  Do not use a towel, just your hand.  If your tattoo feels slimy, do not be alarmed – this is plasma and is a normal part of the healing process.  Try to gently remove as much of this as possible as it can cause scabbing when it dries.  Do not rub. Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not use cloth towels as they can harbor bacteria.  Follow with a light application of Aquaphor or a non-scented moisterizer. Use these products for a minimum of two weeks 3 times a day.  *Do NOT use Neosporin or alcohol!*

After the two weeks of using lotion are done, start to apply a body moisturizer 1 or 2 times a day for as long as you’d like. It is good for the skin and will help the tattoo heal better.

 

Bathing and Swimming 
You can shower with a new tattoo.  It is ok to get the tattoo wet, but do not soak your new tattoo. Submerging the tattoo in water can cause damage or infection. Avoid baths, hot tubs, pools and the beach for at least 2-3 weeks. 

Scabbing and Peeling 
After a few days, you may notice some peeling and possibly a little scabbing – do not be alarmed, this is normal.  *Do not apply ointment or lotion to scabs.*  You may also start to itch when it begins to heal. *DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH YOUR TATTOO!*  If the skin itches, slap it. If it is peeling, put lotion on it. If it is scabbing, leave it alone. It is normal for tattoo to lighten.

Sun Protection
Always protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Tanning can damage your skin and cause your tattoo to fade.  Use a minimum of 30-SPF sunblock when spending time outdoors.

 

WHAT TO DO:

• Remove the SecondSkin after 2-3 days.

• Wash the tattoo area with lukewarm water and anti-bacterial foaming hand soap.

• Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

• Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or Balm Tattoo right after washing and then keep applying a thin layer 2-3 times a day for the next 2 weeks.

• Always apply a high SPF sunscreen on the tattoo before spending time outdoors.

 

WHAT NOT TO DO:

• Do not let anyone touch your fresh tattoo.

• Do not use Neosporin or ointments other than recommended.

• Do not use rubbing alcohol, peroxide or cortisone.

• Do not use cloth towels as they can harbor bacteria.

• Do not pick, peel or scratch your new tattoo.

• Do not soak your new tattoo and avoid humidity - avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, saunas and the beach during the healing process.

• Do not expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight.

• Do not excessively drink or exercise while bandage is on.

• Do not wear tight clothes over area and avoid sleeping on it.

 

Touch Ups

Once the tattoo is healed after 2 weeks, it is completely normal for it to be lighter. You may find that small details/lines and bits of colour have peeled out from the scab. We can schedule a touch up session for no additional charges to revisit lighter areas. To schedule a touch up, respond to the existing email chain with a photo of your healed tattoo or direct message your artist.

 

Your tattoo should heal in 2 weeks. Consult a physician if any signs or symptoms develop such as the following: redness at site, green/yellow discharge (foul smelling) and/or fever. Should you have any problems or questions, do not hesitate to contact us at:

902-414-9799 or info@808studioshfx.com