SECOND SKIN:
If your tattoo is covered with Second Skin, you should keep the second skin on for 4-5
days. During this time, it is normal to see some fluid build up beneath the second skin. (If the
second skin begins to leak, you must remove the second skin and follow the standard
aftercare instructions listed below). After 3-4 days, remove the second skin gently under warm
running water. To take the second skin off you must stretch from each side rather than peel it
off like a Bandaid. When you stretch the second skin it allows the adhesive to come off the
skin without disrupting the tattoo and taking any ink with it. Wash the tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap or warm water (6. on the standard aftercare) At this point, your tattoo
should be well into the healing process - you may use an unscented, non-greasy lotion (like
Hustle Butter, E45, Eucerin Aquaphor or Aveeno Unscented moisturizer) to keep the tattoo
moisturized. DO NOT moisturize your tattoo with Vaseline – this does not let the skin and the
new tattoo breathe.
STANDARD: (gel)
1. Leave covering on for 2-3 hours or as instructed by your artist. 2. Wash your hands well with soap before touching your new tattoo. 3. After the covering is removed, wash your tattoo with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free
soap. Remove all existing vaseline, plasma/excess ink with your fingertips gently. Do not use
anything abrasive to clean your new tattoo. 4. Rinse and pat dry with a disposable paper towel or let air dry. 5. Wash tattoo twice a day (morning and night) until your tattoo is completely healed. Do
not over-wash. Regular showering is fine. Do not submerge (soak) the tattoo for an extended
amount of time until it has healed - this includes baths and swimming. 6. Over the next few days (usually about 3 days) the tattoo will become flaky, dry, and tight. Use a fragrance-free, non-greasy lotion 1-2 times a day sparingly. Rub lotion in until it is fully
absorbed into your skin. Do not over-moisturize. If a scab forms, it will be the color of the ink
used. This does not mean the ink is going to fall out. Leave the scabs and let them fall off
naturally. Do not pick or scratch the area. The tattoo may appear dull until it has completely
healed - this is normal and will go away after a few weeks. Wear loose fitting clothing over the
area.
SOAPS TO USE · Mild, fragrance-free soap: Aveeno Fragrance Free Soap, Simple, Dove.
LOTIONS TO USE · Non-greasy, fragrance-free, dye-free moisturizing lotion: Hustle Butter, Cetaphil, Aveeno
Unscented Moisturizer, Tattoo Goo, E45, Eucerin Aquaphor.
DO NOT! · Do not use anything on the tattoo other than what is previously recommended. · Do not pick, peel, or scratch your new tattoo. · Do not under any circumstance use rubbing alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone on your new
tattoo. · Do not use sponges, washcloths, or anything abrasive while cleaning your tattoo. They
harbor bacteria and may irritate or harm your tattoo. · Do not let anyone touch your new tattoo. · Do not go in a lake, tub, pool, etc. These all contain bacteria. · Do not expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight. This includes tanning beds. A high SPF
sunscreen will protect the crispness/longevity of your tattoo in the future.
Remember to keep your tattoo out of the sun for the first few weeks of healing (at least 3
weeks). When the tattoo is completely healed apply a good SPF sunscreen on the tattoo to
prevent fading.
Enjoy your new tattoo! If you
