Standard Method

At the discretion of your tattoo artist, you should leave the temporary bandage on your tattoo for a maximum of 5 hours.

After you have removed your temporary bandage, thoroughly wash your hands. Using a clean hand, delicately cleanse the new tattoo with warm water and a gentle, unscented liquid soap (like Dial Gold or a diluted, unscented Dr. Bronner’s) in small, circular motions.

Allow your new tattoo to air-dry or gently pat it dry with a paper towel (avoid using regular cloth towels, as they may introduce lint and bacteria to your tattoo).

Once dry, apply a thin layer of A&D ointment to the tattoo. Ensure that the layer covers the new tattoo, but is as thin as possible, allowing your tattoo to breathe. If A&D ointment causes any breakout or skin issues for you, you may use other unscented products such as Aquaphor, unscented white lotion like Lubriderm, coconut oil, or a tattoo-specific aftercare product. Make sure to discuss any product switch with your artist.

Repeat this washing and moisturizing process three to five times a day for the next two weeks or until your new tattoo is fully healed.

Saniderm / Second Skin Method

This adhesive bandage is specifically designed to allow airflow while protecting your tattoo from bacteria and contaminants, ultimately promoting a faster healing process.

Keep the bandage on for a period of three to five days. There's no need to remove it for cleaning purposes since the tattoo area was thoroughly sanitized before the bandage was applied.

Avoid piercing, cutting, or opening the adhesive bandage to drain any blood or plasma buildup. It's normal for this fluid to appear black or muddy and is crucial for the healing process.

If the adhesive bandage happens to leak, you can patch it using the provided additional adhesive piece or medical tape, but only if you notice the leak immediately. If not, you should remove the bandage and follow traditional healing instructions.

The adhesive bandage can be removed when it's been on for three to five days or when your body has reabsorbed the liquid beneath, leaving a dried layer underneath. If there's still liquid in the bandage by the fifth day, remove it and proceed with the traditional healing process.

If you notice small red dots or a red rash around the adhesive bandage's edges, remove it immediately. Avoid reapplying any bandages during the rest of the healing process and consult your artist for further guidance.

When removing the adhesive bandage, do not pull rapidly. Instead, use coconut oil or an unscented soap in the shower, gently rubbing a corner until it loosens. Then, slowly and gently peel it off.

After you have removed your adhesive bandage, thoroughly wash your hands. Using a clean hand, delicately cleanse the new tattoo with warm water and a gentle, unscented liquid soap (like Dial Gold or a diluted, unscented Dr. Bronner’s) in small, circular motions.

Allow your new tattoo to air-dry or gently pat it dry with a paper towel (avoid using regular cloth towels, as they may introduce lint and bacteria to your tattoo).

Once dry, apply a thin layer of A&D ointment to the tattoo. Ensure that the layer covers the new tattoo, but is as thin as possible, allowing your tattoo to breathe. If A&D ointment causes any breakout or skin issues for you, you may use other unscented products such as Aquaphor, unscented white lotion like Lubriderm, coconut oil, or a tattoo-specific aftercare product. Make sure to discuss any product switch with your artist.

Repeat this washing and moisturizing process three to five times a day for the next two weeks or until your new tattoo is fully healed.

Additional Instructions

Protect your tattoo from sun exposure, pet hair, dirt, and other contaminants by wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing that may rub against your new tattoo or fabrics that don't allow air to reach the skin (e.g., Spandex).

If your tattoo gets contaminated, promptly wash your hands and follow the cleaning protocol mentioned above. It's highly recommended to use clean sheets and blankets.

Do not re-bandage your tattoo.

Do not submerge your tattoo in liquid. (e.g., Swimming) Showering is acceptable, but take care not to let scented soaps, shampoos, or conditioners come in contact with your new tattoo until it's healed. If using an adhesive bandage, avoid scrubbing on or near the bandage itself as this may loosen the adhesive.

Refrain from scratching or picking at your healing tattoo. It's normal for the tattoo to become itchy, and you can alleviate this by gently patting around the tattoo's edges with a clean hand, avoiding contact with the new tattoo itself.

Your tattoo is considered fully healed when the new skin layer is shiny and the itching has subsided.

For any additional inquiries about the healing process, contact your artist.

In the event your tattoo becomes hot, painful, or displays signs of infection, immediately contact your physician for further instructions. If comfortable, you can also reach out to your artist to provide updates on any issues.