Second skin
Healing with second skin
Tattoo Aftercare Instructions with DermShield:
Day 1: Immediately After Tattooing
1. Leave DermShield on: Your tattoo artist will apply DermShield to your fresh tattoo before you leave the studio. It is important to leave it on for 3 to 4 days (depending on the specific instructions provided by your tattoo artist or DermShield’s guidelines).
2. Avoid peeling or lifting the bandage: Do not remove the DermShield prematurely, as it helps protect the tattoo from dirt, bacteria, and friction. It also helps to lock in moisture and promote optimal healing.
Days 2-4: During the First Few Days of Healing
1. Leave DermShield on: Continue to wear the DermShield bandage, as it acts as a barrier between your tattoo and the environment.
2. Avoid soaking or excessive moisture: Do not submerge your tattoo in water (such as in a bath, pool, or hot tub) while it’s still covered.
3. Keep the bandage dry: If you notice any leakage or fluid build-up under the DermShield, gently dab with a clean paper towel to absorb it, but avoid removing the bandage prematurely.
4. No friction: Avoid wearing tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo area to prevent rubbing or irritation.
Day 4-5: Removing DermShield
1. Carefully remove DermShield: Gently peel back the bandage from the corner. If you experience any discomfort, you can try softening the adhesive with a warm, damp cloth for a few minutes before removing it.
2. Clean the tattoo: Once the bandage is removed, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel (do not rub).
3. Observe the tattoo: After removing the DermShield, your tattoo might have some residual ink or fluid. This is normal during the healing process.
Days 5-14: After DermShield Removal
1. Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment (such as Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, or another healing ointment recommended by your tattoo artist) for the first few days after removing the bandage. After 5–7 days, you can switch to a fragrance-free moisturizer or tattoo lotion.
2. Keep it clean: Wash the tattoo once or twice a day using mild, unscented soap, and gently pat it dry.
3. Avoid sun exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and irritation.
4. Do not scratch or pick: Your tattoo may itch as it heals. It’s important to avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, as this can cause scarring or ink loss.
Weeks 2-4: Continued Care
1. Avoid tight clothing: Avoid wearing tight clothing over the tattoo to reduce friction as it heals.
2. Keep moisturizing: Continue moisturizing the tattoo to prevent dryness and promote healing.
3. Monitor for signs of infection: If you notice redness, swelling, increased pain, or pus, consult a healthcare professional or your tattoo artist immediately.
Additional Tips:
• Do not reapply DermShield: Once you remove the bandage, you do not need to use it again unless instructed by your tattoo artist.
• Sleep on clean sheets: To avoid infection, sleep on clean, soft sheets, especially during the first few nights.
• Patience: Healing times vary by individual. Avoid rushing the healing process and give your tattoo the proper care it needs to heal correctly.
Always consult with your tattoo artist for any specific aftercare instructions or variations. Proper care ensures your tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy!
plastic wrap
Healing with normal plastic wrap
1. Immediate Aftercare (First Few Hours)
• Leave the plastic wrap on: After getting your tattoo, the artist will usually cover it with a plastic wrap to protect it from bacteria, dirt, and other contaminants. Leave this wrap on for 2 to 4 hours (as per your artist’s recommendation).
• Do not re-wrap: After the initial time, remove the wrap gently. Your tattoo needs air to breathe and heal properly.
2. Cleaning Your Tattoo
• Wash your hands: Before touching your tattoo, make sure your hands are thoroughly washed with soap and water.
• Clean the tattoo gently: Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap to gently wash away any ointment, blood, or excess ink. Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel—avoid using cloth towels, as they may harbor bacteria.
3. Applying a Healing Ointment
• Apply a thin layer of ointment: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of a recommended healing ointment (like Aquaphor, tattoo aftercare creams, or an unscented, hypoallergenic lotion). Avoid using petroleum jelly, as it can suffocate the tattoo.
• Do not overapply: A little goes a long way. The tattoo should not feel greasy or thick with ointment.
4. Re-wrapping (If Needed)
• Optional re-wrapping for the first night: If you feel more comfortable, you can re-wrap your tattoo with clean, non-stick plastic wrap overnight for the first few nights. This is optional but can help prevent irritation or rubbing against clothing.
• Remove wrap in the morning: Once you wake up, remove the wrap and wash the tattoo again as mentioned.
5. During the Healing Process
• Avoid direct sunlight: Keep your tattoo out of the sun and avoid tanning beds until it is fully healed.
• Do not scratch or pick: As your tattoo heals, it may itch or peel. Avoid scratching, picking, or scrubbing the area to prevent scarring or color loss.
• Wear loose clothing: Tight or abrasive fabrics may irritate the tattoo and slow down the healing process.
6. Avoid Water Submersion
• No soaking in water: Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or prolonged soaking in the shower for at least 2 weeks to prevent infections and fading.
7. Moisturizing After Initial Ointment Phase
• Switch to a moisturizer: After the first few days of using ointment, you can switch to a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the tattoo hydrated. Continue this until the tattoo is fully healed.
8. Healing Time
• Healing varies: A tattoo generally takes 2-4 weeks to heal on the surface. However, deeper layers may take up to 6 months to fully heal. Keep caring for your tattoo during this time.
If you notice any unusual signs of infection (excessive redness, swelling, heat, pus, or pain), consult with a healthcare professional immediately.