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TATTOO AFTERCARE

If Using Second Skin (Tegaderm / Saniderm):

First 5 Days:

  • Keep the second skin bandage on for 5 days, do not remove or tamper with it, even if fluid collects underneath.

  • Exception: If the bandage starts leaking, please remove it immediately to prevent bacteria from getting in.

  • Avoid excessive sweating, swimming, or soaking the tattoo.
     

After Day 5 – Removing the Bandage:

  • Remove slowly under lukewarm running water, peeling gently from the edges.

  • Wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel, do not rub.
     

Ongoing Care:

  1. Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen cream 2–3 times daily for 2–3 weeks.

  2. Keep the tattoo moisturized, but avoid over-applying cream.

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If Using Plastic Wrap / Cling Film:

First 24 Hours:

  • Keep the wrap on for 2–4 hours (or as advised by your artist).

  • Remove gently and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
     

Daily Care (2–3 Weeks):

  1. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  2. Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen cream 2–3 times daily.

  3. Keep moisturized, but do not over-apply.

  4. Avoid swimming, soaking, or excessive sweating during the healing process.

DOS & DON'TS

DO:

  • Gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance‑free antibacterial soap once or twice daily. 

  • Moisturize with Bepanthen cream 2–3 times daily, using a thin layer (too much can suffocate the skin). 

  • Wear loose, breathable clothing to limit irritation and friction. 

  • Once fully healed, apply broad‑spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) whenever the tattoo is exposed to the sun to prevent fading and protect skin long‑term. 
     

DON’T:

  • Pick, scratch, or peel the tattoo, this can lead to scarring, color loss, and slow healing. 

  • Expose your tattoo to direct sun or tanning beds during early healing (at least 2–3 weeks). 

  • Swim in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans until the tattoo is completely healed (We recommend to wait a minimum of 2–3 weeks). 

  • Soak in baths or prolonged water immersion until fully healed. 

  • Engage in workouts that cause heavy sweating, friction, or repeated stretching on the tattoo during the first 1–2 weeks, as this can interfere with proper healing and affect how the ink settles.
     

Healing Timeline (Typical)

  • Week 1: Mild redness, tenderness, light peeling/scabbing. 

  • Week 2: Itching, flaking, keep moisturizing. 

  • Weeks 3–4: Surface healing mostly done, but deeper skin layers continue to settle. 
     

Working Out

  • Avoid heavy sweating, irritation, or friction in the first 1–2 weeks. 

  • You can do low‑impact or non‑irritating movement as long as the tattoo area stays clean and dry.
     

Sun & Long‑Term Care

  • Keep fresh tattoos covered or shaded during healing; sunscreen isn’t recommended on fresh open wounds, only after the skin is fully closed. 

  • After healing, use SPF‑rated sun protection every time your tattoo is exposed to UV rays to maintain color and detail. 
     

Signs That Need Attention

Contact your artist for advice, and see a doctor if symptoms become concerning. Warning signs include:

  • Increasing redness or warmth around the tattoo

  • Yellow, green, or foul‑smelling discharge

  • Fever or spreading streaks of redness

    These may indicate infection or complications requiring medical evaluation. 

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