It is ideal for you to leave the bandage on for 3 days.
Don’t panic if your bandage comes off on its own before the 3 days are up, you will be fine! Do not re-bandage your tattoo, instead proceed with the after care listed below.
When you are ready to remove your bandage, make sure you are in a clean environment with clean/washed hands. (Tip: We recommend removing the bandage in the shower as the warm water tends to help loosen the adhesive and soothe your skin!)
Start with a corner of the bandage and slowly begin to peel. Its very important that you are gentle and patient with this process. (Please keep in mind, if you rip the bandage off too quickly, you risk ripping off scabs as well as severely irritating your skin.)
Once you have completely removed the bandage, wash your tattoo with unscented soap and warm water. Be gentle and thorough. You will want to wash your tattoo 1-2 times per day as it heals. (Use only your hands to clean the tattoo and avoid using anything abrasive during the healing process)
It is very important to only use unscented soap when washing your healing tattoo. Soaps that contain fragrances may contain alcohol or chemicals that may irritate your skin. This can lead to infection, issues with healing, and an overall faded tattoo appearance.
Once you have thoroughly cleaned your tattoo, pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel. (Again, avoid any kind of rubbing or scrubbing your healing tattoo as you risk peeling off scabs prematurely)
After 24-48 hours, your tattoo will start to feel dry and begin forming scabs. This is when you can apply a small amount of unscented lotion with clean hands to your tattoo. (Over moisturizing your tattoo can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and infection.)
Your healing tattoo needs to stay moisturized to protect it from cracking and bleeding. It is recommended that you moisturize your tattoo 2-3 times a day.
Repeat the steps above for the next two weeks as your tattoo heals. Please keep in mind healing time varies! You'll know your tattoo is fully healed when all of the scabs have fallen off on their own revealing a new layer of smooth skin.
Important things to keep in mind while your tattoo heals:
Be extra gentle with your new tattoo within the first 7-14 days. Always wear clean and loose fitting clothing over your new tattoo. Avoid any kind of rubbing or irritation.
When your tattoo begins to dry out and form scabs, it may become very itchy. DO NOT scratch or pick at your healing tattoo in any way. (Picking off scabs can lead to scarring, a faded tattoo, and infection.)
As your tattoo scabs and peels, it will typically appear flat and faded. Remember, you're healing an open wound, and your skin is working to shed its damaged cells to restore its protective layer. These damaged cells will rest on the skin temporarily, creating a translucent and milky appearance. (Translation: Your tattoo is temporarily going to look a little ugly before it’s fully healed! Be patient and let your body do its thing.)
Do not soak or submerge your tattoo in water for 2 weeks. Avoid swimming, baths, lakes, pools or hot tubs until your tattoo is fully healed. (Again, excess moisture can lead to clogged pores, wet scabs, breakouts, and infection. If your tattoo gets wet, pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for 2 weeks. If you expect to be in the sun, cover it with loose fitting clothing. You can apply sunscreen to your tattoo after 2 weeks/when it's fully healed.
Always do your best to keep your tattoo away from bacteria of any kind. If it comes in contact with anything that may contain bacteria, wash your tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap and pat it dry.
It is recommended that you wait at least 48 hours before strenuous physical activity and heavy sweating. Sweat can cause your bandage to come off early, as well as cause irritation and infection. (Perspiration can trap excess moisture in the area of a tattoo. This build-up of moisture will become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms and promote bacterial growth. This can lead to a bacterial infection.)
In case of irritation or infection:
The second skin may cause minor irritation to your skin if it is being touched or pulled excessively. If it is causing excessive irritation to your skin, i.e. redness, pain, inflammation, blisters, etc. remove it immediately and proceed with aftercare instructions.
If you suspect your tattoo has become infected, you may apply a thin layer of antibacterial ointment (Polysporin, etc).
Signs of infection include: excessive redness, soreness, discharge, and feeling hot to the touch several days after your appointment.
Please keep in mind that it is normal for a tattoo to feel mildly warm, sore and swollen for the first couple days following the tattoo appointment.
Please consult with a physician within 24 hours if any signs of infection occur.
Enjoy your new tattoo!
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns!