At Art Collector Tattoo Studio, we’ve been creating lasting art since 2012, giving us over a decade of experience in the world of tattoos. During that time, we’ve seen countless tattoos heal, from vibrant first-day ink to fully settled. This experience allows us to give reliable, tried-and-true aftercare advice, ensuring your tattoo looks its best for years to come.
We’re thrilled to be part of your tattoo journey! Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, taking care of your new ink is crucial. Proper aftercare helps prevent infections, keeps your tattoo looking fresh, and ensures it heals beautifully. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters
A tattoo isn’t just art. It’s a minor medical procedure. A needle punctures your skin to deposit ink, and this opens the door to bacteria. Proper aftercare minimizes risks like infection, scarring, and fading.
There are 3 ways to heal your tattoo:
1. Healing with Second Skin.
2. Traditional healing without Second Skin.
3. Dry healing. We don’t recommend this one.
Healing tattoo with Second skin
One of the most effective methods is using second skin products like DermShield or Saniderm. This modern healing approach protects your tattoo, speeds up recovery, and helps your ink look its best for years. Here’s everything you need to know about the second skin healing method.
What Is Second Skin and Why Use It?
Second skin is a clear, adhesive bandage designed specifically for tattoos. Unlike traditional healing methods that involve scabbing and drying out the skin, second skin creates a moist healing environment. This isn’t just about convenience—it’s backed by science.
When you get a tattoo, your skin experiences trauma, creating a wound that’s vulnerable to infection.
Here’s how second skin helps:
- Acts as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria from entering.
- Maintains a moist environment, which speeds up healing by 3-5 times compared to dry healing.
- Reduces scabbing and itching, leading to a smoother healing process.
- Minimizes pain and inflammation, so you’re more comfortable.
How to Use Second Skin for Tattoo Healing
Step 1: Leave It On for 3-7 Days
After your tattoo is done, your artist will apply a layer of second skin, such as Saniderm. Here’s what to do next:
- Keep the second skin on for at least 3 – 4 days. It’s ok to keep it up to 7 days.
- Avoid long, hot showers or excessive sweating, as this could loosen the adhesive.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
Step 2: Manage Fluid Build-Up
You might notice a bubble of fluid under the bandage. Don’t panic—this is normal! It’s just plasma, ink, and other fluids your body produces as part of the healing process.
- Do not pop the bubble — this could introduce bacteria.
- If the bandage leaks — it’s ok.
- Bandage becomes loose — remove it early to avoid infection. Continue with the traditional healing method.
Step 3: Remove the Second Skin Properly
When it’s time to remove the second skin, follow these steps for a smooth process:
- Take a warm shower to soften the adhesive.
- Wash your hands, then gently peel off the bandage from one corner.
- Let water run between the skin and the adhesive as you remove it.
- Wash your tattoo with fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.
Step 4: Moisturize and Protect
Once the second skin is off:
- Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion 3-5 times per day to keep it hydrated.
- Wash your tattoo 1-2 times everyday.
- Avoid direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks. Once healed, use sunscreen to maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy.
Common Concerns with Second Skin
- Sweating and Workouts: Avoid strenuous activity and excessive sweating while wearing second skin to prevent irritation or premature lifting.
- Adhesive Reactions: If you experience redness or itching around the edges, it could be a mild reaction to the adhesive. Remove the bandage and switch to traditional aftercare methods.
- Showering with a second skin bandage: It’s designed to be water-resistant, so you can keep it on during short showers. However, it’s important to avoid prolonged water exposure, as this can weaken the adhesive
What to Expect During Healing
- Days 1-3: Your tattoo may look red and feel tender. Fluid build-up is common.
- Days 4-7: Skin starts to feel tight. It’s normal to feel some itchiness as your tattoo heals. Please avoid scratching to minimize scabbing.
- Post-Removal: The tattoo might look shiny and flaky. Continue moisturizing until your skin feels normal.
Benefits of the Second Skin Method
- Faster Healing: Moist wound healing allows your body to focus on repairing tissue rather than forming and breaking down scabs.
- Better Ink Retention: Less scabbing means less chance of losing ink during the healing process.
- Reduced Risk of Infection: The waterproof barrier keeps bacteria out while allowing your skin to breathe.
When to Contact Your Artist or Doctor
If you notice excessive redness, swelling, or signs of infection (pus, extreme pain), reach out to your tattoo artist / studio or a healthcare professional immediately.
Heal Smart, Look Great
Second skin is a game-changer in tattoo aftercare. It simplifies the process while delivering superior results, ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years. Got questions? Don’t hesitate to ask us for advice about your tattoo.
Traditional (no second skin) healing method
If you’re not using a second skin product like Saniderm to heal your new tattoo, don’t worry. The traditional healing method has been trusted for decades and, when done correctly, can result in vibrant, long-lasting tattoos. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you heal your tattoo without second skin while keeping it safe and looking its best.
Why Use the Traditional Healing Method?
The traditional method relies on your body’s natural healing process to protect and repair your tattoo. After all, tattoos are essentially wounds, and your skin is designed to heal itself. With the right care, this method can be just as effective as using second skin.
Here’s what the traditional method offers:
- Natural scabbing and peeling, which creates a protective barrier.
- Simple care routine with easily available products.
- Flexibility for people with sensitive skin or allergies to adhesives.
How to Heal Your Tattoo Using the Traditional Method
Step 1: Initial Bandage and First Cleaning
Right after your tattoo session, your artist will cover your tattoo with a sterile bandage or plastic wrap.
- Keep the bandage on for 2-6 hours to protect the fresh tattoo from dirt and bacteria.
- Once it’s time to remove it, wash your hands thoroughly, then gently peel off the bandage.
Next, wash your tattoo with fragrance-free, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.
- Use your fingertips to clean off any excess blood, ink, or plasma.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel—don’t rub, as this can irritate the skin.
Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer of Aftercare Ointment
After washing, apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare ointment or fragrance-free lotion.
- Products like Aquaphor or specialized tattoo balms work well to keep the area hydrated.
- Avoid heavy application to prevent clogging pores or smothering the tattoo.
I personally don’t like Aquaphor because it contains petroleum which clogging pores. Use any healing ointment that has panthenol and no petroleum.
Step 3: Establish a Cleaning Routine
For the next 7 days:
- Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day with soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat it dry with clean paper towels.
- Reapply a thin layer of ointment or lotion after each wash.
What to Expect During the Healing Process
Days 1-3: Initial Healing
- Your tattoo may look red, swollen, and slightly shiny.
- Fluid (plasma) might leak—this is normal and part of your body’s healing response.
Days 4-7: Scabbing and Peeling
- Light scabbing will begin to form, and your tattoo might feel tight or itchy.
- Avoid scratching or picking at scabs to prevent pulling out ink.
Days 7-14: Flaking and Peeling
- The scabs will naturally flake off, revealing new skin underneath.
- Your tattoo may look dull or cloudy during this phase—don’t worry, the vibrancy will return.
Days 15-30: Skin Tightness and Final Healing
- The outer layer of skin should be mostly healed, but deeper layers continue to repair.
- Continue moisturizing to prevent dryness and keep your tattoo looking fresh.
Important Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Wear loose, clean clothing to avoid friction on your tattoo.
- Change your bedsheets regularly to reduce exposure to bacteria.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support skin healing.
Don’t:
- Soak your tattoo in water—no baths, swimming pools, or hot tubs until fully healed.
- Expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for at least two weeks. Once healed, use sunscreen to protect it from fading.
- Scratch or pick at scabs or flakes, even if they itch.
Benefits of the Traditional Healing Method
- Flexibility for people with sensitive skin or allergies to adhesives
When to Seek Help
Healing tattoos sometimes encounter complications. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your artist or a healthcare professional:
- Excessive redness, swelling, or warmth around the tattoo.
- Yellow or green discharge, which could indicate infection.
- Fever or chills.
The traditional healing method is a proven way to care for your tattoo, ensuring it heals properly while maintaining its vibrancy. By following these steps, you’ll set your tattoo up for success and enjoy its beauty for years to come. If you have any concerns during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist for advice.
Comments