Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

* Below are aftercare instructions for both the black absorbent pad style bandage as well as the second skin bandage *
Please read carefully and follow the aftercare instructions specific to the bandage your artist applied. 
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your artist and/or studio. 
REGULAR BANDAGING (Absorbent Pad)
Remove the bandage after 3 to 4 hours.

Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild soap; rinse well.

Pat dry with a clean towel. Allow the tattoo to air dry for 24 hours. 
     
After 24 hours thoroughly rub in aftercare, preferably an all-natural vegan aftercare with no petroleum. A product may be recommended to you.
 
Moisturize your tattoo twice a day, with clean hands, to prevent it from drying out.  DO NOT OVER APPLY
 
Keep your tattoo dry and out of direct sunlight. 

Allow the scabs to fall off by themselves instead of scratching them off. 

* Avoid soaking the tattoo
 
* Do not expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight
 
* Avoid working out
 
* Avoid tight fitting clothes
 
* Do not scratch or pick at your tattoo
 
* Avoid swelling by elevating
 
 
Contact your doctor immediately if increased redness, swelling and/or
pain occurs.
                                 

"SECOND SKIN" (Transparent Adhesive Bandage)


 Second Skin, a sterile, breathable, waterproof, germ-proof barrier to protect your new tattoo. Leave the Second Skin on for 2 DAYS, remove if compromised.

 The Second Skin will protect your tattoo from infection, abrasion, irritation and contamination while it is going through the most important part of its healing. It will also protect your clothes, sheets and loved ones from coming in contact with the excess ink, blood and fluid that are the normal by-products of healing a tattoo. It is normal to have fluids pool under the Second Skin during this time.

 You can perform all your usual activities (excluding exercise) while the tattoo is covered with Second Skin. Be sure not to bump or rub your new tattoo excessively, or do anything that will scrape or peel the covering off.

 Showering will not affect Second Skin; it is reasonably waterproof. You can quickly shower while healing. However, do not bathe or swim until your tattoo is fully healed.

After 48hrs, remove the Second Skin by carefully peeling it off of your skin. Do not quickly tear it off, as this can cause skin irritation. The easiest way to soften the adhesive is to stand in a warm shower for 15-20 minutes and remove the covering in the shower.

 After removing the covering, rinse the tattoo thoroughly with warm water and wash, then rinse several times using antibacterial soap and warm water. Gently work any excess material off the surface of your skin using the palm of your hand while doing so do not use any wash-cloths, sponges or brushes.

 After patting your tattoo with a clean towel, the skin should be shiny and dry. For the next 7-10 days, with clean hands, apply a thin layer of aftercare rubbing it in thoroughly twice a day or when it feels tight, dry, or itchy. Otherwise, let it air out and heal naturally. You might notice a few layers of flaky skin peeling, this is completely normal.

*If you feel a burning sensation or itchy feeling, please remove the second skin. 
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