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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you suspect infection, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.