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Tattoo Aftercare

Choose your aftercare method below. Follow the steps carefully for the best heal. If you have questions or special skin concerns, please reach out before making changes.

1

Leave the film on (initial period)

Keep the applied second-skin film (e.g., Saniderm/Tegaderm-style) on for 12–24 hours unless otherwise instructed. It protects the area and collects plasma/ink. Some fluid under the film is normal.

If the film fills with fluid, begins to lift significantly, or becomes uncomfortable, you may change it earlier.

2

First removal & wash

With clean hands, peel the film gently under a stream of lukewarm water to reduce pull on the skin. Wash the tattoo with a fragrance-free, gentle soap. Rinse well.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not rub. Allow the tattoo to air dry for ~10 minutes.

3

Reapply film (optional)

If recommended, apply a new piece of second-skin film. Ensure the skin is fully dry and not over-moisturized before applying. Avoid trapping pockets of air or moisture.

Typically, the second application can stay on for up to 3–5 days total (follow your artist's guidance). If it lifts, trim edges or replace as needed.

4

After film period (days 3–7)

Once the film is removed for good, wash the tattoo 1–2× daily. Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer 2–3× daily as needed to reduce tightness/itching.

Light peeling ("onion-skin" flaking) is normal. Do not pick. Continue to avoid soaking and direct sun.

Do

  • Wash hands before touching your tattoo.
  • Wash the area gently with fragrance-free soap as directed.
  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel; avoid rubbing with cloth towels.
  • Moisturize with a thin layer 2–3× daily once instructed.
  • Wear clean, loose clothing over the area.
  • Use SPF 30+ after the tattoo is fully healed.

Don't

  • Pick, scratch, or peel. Let flakes fall off naturally.
  • Soak the tattoo (no baths, pools, hot tubs, ocean) until fully healed.
  • Expose to direct sun or tanning beds during healing.
  • Use heavy perfumes, exfoliants, or alcohol-based products on the area.
  • Over-moisturize (can trap moisture and delay healing).
  • Let the gym or tight gear rub/irritate the area — protect it.

Recommended Soaps

  • Dove Sensitive Skin (fragrance-free) Beauty Bar
  • Dr. Bronner's Baby Unscented (diluted) Castile Soap
  • Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (fragrance-free)
  • CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (fragrance-free)

Use cool-to-lukewarm water. Avoid antibacterial soaps or anything perfumed/harsh.

Recommended Moisturizers

  • Aquaphor Healing Ointment — very thin layer for first 2–3 days if needed
  • Hustle Butter (tattoo-friendly balm), thin layer as needed
  • Lubriderm Daily Moisture (Fragrance-Free)
  • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion (Fragrance-Free)
  • Eucerin Advanced Repair (Fragrance-Free)

Apply a very thin layer 2–3× daily. If skin looks shiny/greasy, use less. Avoid straight petroleum jelly on a fresh tattoo.