Option 1: Saniderm / Second Skin Bandage

• Keep the Saniderm on for at least 3 to 5 days, or as advised by your artist.

• Saniderm acts like a protective, breathable scab, allowing your body to heal naturally and faster by locking in moisture and keeping out bacteria.

• It’s normal to see ink, plasma, and fluid collect under the bandage—this is part of the healing process.

Removing the Bandage:

1.     Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.

2.     If you plan to shower during this time, shower before removing the bandage. This helps keep shampoo, conditioner, and other soaps out of the tattooed area.

3.     It’s often easiest to remove Saniderm while in a warm shower, as the steam softens the adhesive and makes removal more comfortable.

4.     Gently peel off the bandage, pulling slowly in the direction of hair growth—avoid pulling straight up or ripping it off quickly.

5.     Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.

6.     Pat dry with a clean paper towel—do not rub.

7.     Let the tattoo air dry for 10–15 minutes.

Before Applying A&D or Moisturizer:

• Always make sure the tattoo is completely clean and dry before applying a very thin layer of A&D ointment or a fragrance-free tattoo lotion.

• Only use A&D for the first few days, then switch to a lighter, unscented moisturizer to avoid clogging pores.

Ongoing Care After Removal:

• Wash the tattoo 2–3 times a day.

• Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, non-petroleum-based lotion.

• Avoid re-bandaging unless told otherwise.

Option 2: Absorbent Pad with Cling Wrap

(Traditional Method)

First 4–6 Hours:

• Keep the initial bandage on.

• Fluid and ink seepage is normal.

After Removing:

1.     Wash your hands thoroughly.

2.     Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.

3.     Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow it to air dry for 10–15 minutes.

Before Applying A&D or Moisturizer:

• Ensure the tattoo is fully clean and dry before applying a thin layer of A&D ointment or tattoo-safe lotion.

• A&D can be used during the first 2–3 days; after that, switch to a lighter moisturizer.

For the First 2–3 Nights:

• Rewrap the tattoo at night using a clean absorbent pad and cling wrap to protect it from bacteria, friction, and dirt.

• In the morning, unwrap, wash, dry, and reapply ointment or lotion.

Ongoing Care (Day 2–14):

• Continue washing gently 2–3 times a day.

• Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer.

• Stop wrapping unless otherwise instructed.

⚠️ Important Healing Guidelines:

• Avoid saunas, swimming pools, and hot tubs for at least 2–3 weeks.

• Skip high-intensity sports, heavy workouts, or anything that causes excessive sweating during the healing period.

• Try your best to avoid sweating, especially in the first 10 days, as the body still sees the ink as a foreign object and will react accordingly.

• Do not put pressure on the tattooed area, avoid sleeping on it, leaning on it, or wearing tight clothing that rubs.

• Getting a tattoo is no different than having surgery—your body needs rest, cleanliness, and protection to heal properly.

• Do not scratch or pick at flaking or scabbing skin, even if it itches.

• Avoid scented soaps, lotions, and petroleum-based products, unless recommended by your artist.

• Keep pets and dirty surfaces away from the tattoo and sleep on clean bedding.