After Care

The aftercare provided on this page will be in accordance to using a “second skin” or “dermal” bandage, which you can buy here at the shop, online via our webstore, or Amazon. There are definitely things you should NOT DO with any new tattoo (even with a protective bandage) as a new tattoo is an open wound and is still susceptible to infection. They include:

  • Swimming in pools, lakes, hot tubs, or the ocean.

  • Do not expose the tattoo to direct sunlight if possible.

  • Do not let people or pets touch, lick, or scratch your new tattoo.

  • Do not scratch or pick at your new tattoo as it may cause any scabs to prematurely come off and take some of your tattoo with it.

  • If you decide to exercise please at least wait a few days and do not let your tattoo come in contact with gym equipment.

Step by Step

✦Once your tattoo is complete, a protective bandage will be applied to it. Leave this bandage on overnight.

✦The next day the breathable bandage will be filled with excess ink and fluid that your body couldn't take in. This is also known as an “ink sack”. DO NOT BE ALARMED. This is completely normal. 

✦In the shower get the bandage wet with warm/hot water to loosen the bandage, peel down from the corner and remove it slowly.

✦Clean the tattoo with antibacterial soap (Dial, Softsoap, or generic brand without fragrance) and hot water in the shower. Be mindful not to get any shampoo or other products on your now clean tattoo.

✦Once out of the shower thoroughly dry the tattoo with a clean towel.

✦Apply a follow up bandage, leave this on 4 to 5 days. The bandage will not come off unless physically peeled off. Try to avoid physical activity and/or excess perspiration that may cause bacteria.

✦If for some reason you are perspiring a lot from either climate or physical activity please take off the bandage like before, clean the tattoo and apply another one.

✦After 4 or 5 days remove your bandage as before. Your tattoo should be almost completely healed. 

✦The skin underneath is new and it may be a little dry and itchy, Use an unscented lotion to keep the new tattoo hydrated this may take up yo another week. 

✦To keep your tattoos bright throughout your life and help prevent “fading” it is recommended you apply sunscreen of at least 15 SPF when in direct sunlight for long periods of time.