Tattoo Aftercare

SECOND SKIN

I use Second Skin, a medical-grade adhesive bandage, to protect your tattoo from bacteria, debris, and irritation while it heals. It also prevents ink and plasma from staining clothes and linens.

Keep the bandage on for at least 3-4 days, unless I specify otherwise. Fluid buildup beneath the bandage is normal - this is just plasma and excess ink. If it starts leaking or falls off early, that’s okay!

Removing the Bandage

After 3-4 days, gently remove it under warm running water - the shower is best.
Stretch the bandage from each side instead of peeling it off like a Band-Aid. This helps release the adhesive without disturbing your tattoo.
Run warm water over the bandage while stretching to make removal easier. Wash your tattoo with warm water.

Moisturizing & Healing

Your tattoo will start to feel flaky, dry, and tight over the next few days.
Apply a fragrance-free, non-greasy lotion sparingly (pea-sized amount, 1-2 times daily).

Recommended options:

  • Aveeno Unscented Moisturizer

  • Cetaphil Fragrance-Free Lotion

  • Lubriderm Unscented Lotion

    Extra Second Skin Bandage Instructions

    If I give you extra bandage, it’s because your tattoo has a lot of black pigment, leading to more fluid buildup.

  • Leave the first bandage on for 12-24 hours (no longer).

  • Remove it under warm running water using the stretching method.

  • Let the tattoo air dry or pat it dry with a clean paper towel

  • Cut the extra bandage to size, peel off the backing, and apply the sticky side to the tattoo.
    Then peel away the top layer.

  • Leave the new bandage on for 3-5 days.

Tattoo Aftercare -
SARAN WRAP / BLACK PAD

Leave the wrap/ bandage on for 1-5 hours after your tattoo. Max 6 Hours.

Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap to ensure vaseline comes off (no exfoliating or perfumed body wash).

Pat dry with a paper towel and let air dry.

Apply a small amount of unscented lotion

Recommended options:

  • Aveeno Unscented Moisturizer

  • Cetaphil Fragrance-Free Lotion

  • Lubriderm Unscented Lotion

Sleeping: If recommended by artist, re-wrap with plastic wrap (Saran Wrap) for the first night, especially for larger tattoos.

Daily Care

Wash the tattoo in the morning and night, and apply lotion 2-3 times a day or as needed.

Avoid

  • Vaseline, Neosporin, or medicated products.

  • Submerging in water (no baths, pools, or oceans).

  • Direct sunlight.

  • Shaving over the tattoo.

  • Picking at scabs - let them fall off naturally.

Healing

Once scabs fall off, the tattoo may feel smooth but still have a shiny layer; continue moisturizing until it heals.

Important Aftercare Tips

  • Do not pick or scratch - let scabs fall off naturally.

  • Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo.

  • Avoid vigorous activities for a few days.

  • Wash hands before touching your healing tattoo.

  • No one should touch your tattoo.

  • Avoid water sources like beaches, pools, lakes, saunas, and spas

  • Stay out of direct sunlight (including tanning beds) for the first few weeks.

  • Once healed, apply high SPF sunscreen to prevent fading.

Enjoy your new tattoo! If you have any questions, do not hesitate to email me: hi@hellojacquelinemay.com