Keep the second skin on for 3–5 days.
It protects your tattoo from dirt, friction, and bacteria, giving it the best start in the healing process.
After 3–5 days, remove the film under warm running water or in the shower. This makes removal easier and reduces discomfort.
Wash the tattoo gently with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap (for example, Dial clear, without scent and color).
Use only clean hands, no washcloths or sponges. Do not scrub.
Pat dry carefully with a disposable paper towel (e.g., Bounty). Do not use fabric towels, as they can harbor bacteria.
Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor 2–3 times a day for the first 2 weeks.
A thin layer is enough—too much ointment may clog pores and delay healing.
During the healing period:
• While the film is on (first 3–5 days), avoid sports, gym, and heavy sweating.
• For at least 2–3 weeks, avoid pools, saunas, hot tubs, and ocean/lake swimming. These expose the tattoo to excess moisture and bacteria.
After the tattoo is healed, always use sunscreen (SPF 30+) when it’s exposed to the sun. This will keep the lines sharp and the colors vibrant.
Tattoo Aftercare Instructions (for people allergic to second skin)
• First night:
After your tattoo session, leave the protective bandage on for 2–4 hours
Do not keep it overnight if your skin reacts with redness, itching, or rash.
• After removing the bandage:
Wash your hands first. Then gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
Do not scrub — just use your clean hands.
• Drying:
Pat the tattoo gently with a disposable paper towel. Do not rub, and do not use fabric towels.
• Ointment:
Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or another tattoo-safe healing ointment. Repeat 2–3 times a day for the first week.
After 5–7 days, you can switch to a light, fragrance-free moisturizer (like Aveeno, Lubriderm, or Eucerin).
• Healing phase precautions:
• Wash the tattoo gently once or twice a day.
• Do not cover the tattoo again with bandages or plastic wrap (the skin needs to breathe).
• Avoid scratching, picking scabs, or peeling flakes — let them fall off naturally.
• Avoid tight clothing that may rub against the tattoo.
• No pools, saunas, hot tubs, or swimming in oceans/lakes for at least 2–3 weeks.
• Avoid heavy sweating (gym, sports) for the first week.
• Sun protection:
Once healed, always use SPF 30+ sunscreen when the tattoo is exposed to the sun to preserve lines and colors.