aftercare

tattoo aftercare instructions

• leave the second skin bandage on for 1-4 days after getting tattooed. it’s waterproof, so you can shower without discomfort. the adhesive bandage protects your new tattoo from infection, scabbing and any other irritants. please let me know if you are allergic to the adhesive in saniderm!
• because saniderm is hypoallergenic and latex-free, it does not trigger a regular latex allergy. however, if you are sensitive to band-aids, medical tape, or other adhesives, it will be better to use a simple plastic wrap, which you can remove 2-3 hours after getting the tattoo.
• to remove saniderm, run under warm water (in the shower works well), and peel off slowly, pulling away from the skin (like removing a command strip). rinse any built up residue on your tattoo with warm water and gently clean it with unscented antibacterial soap. pat down the tattooed area with a clean paper towel.
• wash with unscented soap twice a day for 1 week, and apply a thin layer of aquaphor, hustle butter, or other unscented lotion afterwards. it is important to keep your new tattoo clean and moisturized during the healing process! after 1 week, you can do this wash + lotion routine once a day, or as needed.
• do not drink alcohol within the first 24 hours of getting your tattoo - it can thin your blood and affect the healing process.

things to avoid within the first 3-4 weeks of getting your tattoo (or until fully healed— no more flaking) 

• itching/picking at the tattoo
• prolonged sun exposure (if you must go in the sun, wrap a bandana around or wear clothing (preferably light and loose) that covers the tattoo
• soaking in bodies of water
• swimming in pools, rivers, lakes, the ocean, etc.
• tanning beds, gym or any sweaty activities
• alcohol for 24 hours
• applying sunscreen to the tattoo (wait until fully healed to do this)
• any soaps or lotion with any fragrances or harsh chemicals as they can irritate your skin
• if you have any concerns or questions, please email me directly with a picture of your tattoo. I will respond and offer a time to do a touch-up if necessary!

things to keep in mind

• it is normal for excess ink, blood, plasma, and body fluids to build up underneath the bandage, causing the tattoo to look blurry 
• how to notice an allergic reaction to saniderm: redness around the edge of the bandage, not on the tattoo itself. if you notice irritation from the second skin, take off the bandage immediately and follow aftercare instructions as normal. if you have sensitive skin, I would avoid using second skin and stick to the traditional way of healing the tattoo with plastic cling wrap. seek medical attention if needed
• once I tattoo you, it is entirely up to you how you treat the tattoo after that. have it interact with new tats you get! cover it up! add to it! to me, this is a part of the collaborative process that is tattooing.