For SecondSkin, DermShield or any self-adhesive clear bandaging: remove bandage 1-4 days* after application. Remove bandage gently under running water in the direction of the hair growth. (*this time frame is subject to personal preference and type of tattoo)
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For clients who require or prefer a cling-wrap bandage instead of a self adhesive bandage: cling wrap bandages are a short term solution to get your tattoo home safely! They can be removed as soon as you get home or can be left on for a few hours, but should not be worn overnight.
For either bandaging solution: once removed, rinse with lukewarm water and unscented soap, then pat dry with a paper towel. Wear loose clothing to ensure the tattoo can breathe. Make sure that your bedsheets are freshly cleaned.
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As a general outline for healing your tattoo, use your normal normal skin care routine as a baseline, leaving out any scented products or exfoliation products/routines, and add additional cleansing & moisturizing.
Wash tattoo twice per day for the first week, tapering off to once a week in the second. Make sure to wash your piece more if your tattoo will be exposed to pet dander and/or environments with a greater concentration of potential bacteria and viruses. If you suspect a greater likelihood that you will encounter bacteria/viruses, use an antibacterial soap. If you are in a fairly clean environment and the tattoo is protected by loose clothing, whatever unscented soap you have on hand is sufficient.
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Use a small amount of familiar ointment/unscented lotion as needed after washing, when the tattoo itches or skin feels tight. Tattoos with solid fill/color will require more attention to help the epidermis slough off instead of forming a scab - please adhere to regular washing with full color/fill pieces. Line-only or pieces that are line + whip shading will be more forgiving, but make sure to also keep these clean & moisturized.
Do not itch, scratch, or pick at your healing tattoo.
Under no circumstances should you swim in any body of water with a fresh tattoo. Please wait 3-4 weeks at least. Swimming prior to the epidermis fully healing can lead to prematurely aged tattoos, infection, and in rare cases of Literal Brain Eating Amoeba, death. Don't do it.
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Sunscreen is not a moisturizer and should not be applied to tattoos for 3-4 weeks. Tattoos should be fully protected from the sun by clothing for the first 3-4 weeks. UV-A & UV-B Rays damage the epidermis & dermis. Sun exposure can slow healing, cause premature fading & spreading of the tattoo by further damaging skin & tissues still in the healing process.
Failure to properly care for your tattoo may result in infection.
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If you suspect infection, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.