Tattoo Aftercare
Your tattoo artist should let you know which type of bandage they used.
Please contact your artist if you have any questions.
Tegaderm (Saniderm)
Tegaderm is a sterile, breathable, waterproof, germ-proof barrier to protect your new tattoo. Leave the Tegaderm on for 5 days and do not lift, change, or remove it.
Tegaderm will protect your tattoo from infection, abrasion, irritation and contamination while healing.
It’s normal for the tattoo to have layers of blood and fluid visible under the bandage.
You can do your normal activities (including exercise) while the tattoo is covered with Tegaderm.
Do not bump or rub your new tattoo excessively, or do anything that will scrape or peel off the covering.
You can shower normal while healing. Do not bathe or swim until your tattoo is fully healed.
After 5 days, remove the Tegaderm 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 hot shower for several minutes and remove the covering in the shower.
After removing Tegarderm:
Rinse the tattoo thoroughly with antibacterial soap and warm water. Gently work any excess material off the surface of your skin using the palm of your hand. Do not use any wash-cloths, sponges or brushes.
Pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel. The skin should be shiny and dry.
Apply a thin layer of hand lotion. Only use an unscented, colorless lotion like Jergens, Lubriderm, Nivea, or Noxzema.
Continue to apply a thin layer of lotion for next 7-10 days when it feels tight, dry, or itchy.
You might notice a few layers of flaky skin peeling. This is completely normal.
Regular bandage
Do this:
Leave the bandage on for at least two hours after getting the tattoo. If you get tattooed at night, leave the bandage on until the next morning.
After taking the bandage off, gently wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap and warm water, and then gently pat dry. It’s normal for it to sting. Stay away from scented soaps.
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer after cleaning the tattoo. Please use fragrance-free lotion, like Lubriderm, or Aquaphor. Do not use any petroleum-based products. Wipe off any excess moisturizer. Too much moisture will damage your tattoo.
Continue to clean and moisturize your tattoo several times a day for two weeks.
Don’t do this:
Showers are okay, but do not soak the tattoo (no baths, hot tubs, swimming, etc.)
Do not let the tattoo have direct sunlight for two weeks.
Do not scratch the tattoo. It will get itchy!
Do not pick the scabs. You will lift the ink from your skin and ruin the tattoo.