Tattoo Aftercare

Yay—you have a brand new tattoo! Now let’s make sure it heals beautifully.

At the end of every session, I seal your tattoo with second skin. This breathable film keeps the area protected while allowing the tattoo to stay moisturized and safe from infection or contamination as you go about your day. Best of all, you can shower with it on!

My aftercare routine is simple and straightforward. Because of this, about 95% of my clients never need a touch-up.

Now let’s go through the key dos and don’ts to help your tattoo heal well and age gracefully.

Second skin is amazing! It lets you shower normally and move freely while your tattoo begins to heal.

How long to keep it on:

Leave the second skin on for 4 days.

If it starts itching a lot around the edges, you can remove it early, but try to keep it on for at least 2 days.

What to expect:

You may notice an ink pouch form under the bandage. This is completely normal! It’s not ink leaking out, but your skin producing lymph fluid. The clear liquid mixes with surface ink, but it won’t harm your tattoo.

By the 3rd day, the liquid will dry. The tattoo underneath may look blurry or smudged, but don’t worry! Once you remove the bandage and gently clean the area, your tattoo will look clear again.

If you need to remove it early:

Gently wash the tattoo with mild, unscented soap.

Pat dry with a clean towel (no rubbing).

Apply a thin layer of aftercare lotion to keep it moist.

After removing the bandage:

Keep your tattoo moisturized until peeling stops (usually 10 days up to 3 weeks, depending on the size and your skin).

Safe moisturizers include coconut oil, Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, or Tattoo Goo, all available at drugstores or online.

Do NOT use Polysporin, as it can interfere with healing.

2 Weeks

Avoid swimming in pools or lakes, or baths. Shower is ok.

10 Days

Avoid heavy sun exposure for 10 days. After 10 days, please put on sunscreen. It will help keep color vibrant.

During Peeling

No scratching or picking of scab. Put on cream when it’s itchy, moisture helps the itching. Or if its really unbearably itchy, smack it! Hah.