How Long Do You Leave Second Skin On A Tattoo?

To Remove –

Test an edge: Pick an edge of the bandage and peel it away. If it’s difficult to remove, try taking a warm shower to help reduce the stickiness
Remove slowly: Pull the second skin off slowly. It’s very similar to removing a plaster. If you pull too quickly, it’s going to sting. You might also damage the new layer of skin underneath. Just go slowly, and you’ll be fine
Clean: Make sure you wash your tattoo carefully after removing the bandage and apply moisturizer

It’s totally normal to see some ink or blood under the bandage. This will usually appear within the first day. If you want to, you can replace the old dressing with a new one, following the application instructions. You can leave a second skin on for as long as it feels comfortable to you. Most people remove it after three to four days.

Contents

0.1 When should I take off my SecondSkin?

1 What does SecondSkin do for tattoos?
- 1.1 Should I wash my tattoo after taking off SecondSkin?
2 Can I take SecondSkin off after 24 hours?
3 What happens if I take my tattoo bandage off early?
4 What does a weeping tattoo mean?
5 What happens if Saniderm comes off early?
6 When can I remove tattoo film?
7 What happens if you leave a tattoo bandage on too long?
- 7.1 Can I swim with SecondSkin?
8 Can I workout with SecondSkin?

When should I take off my SecondSkin?

Tattooing has developed in amazing ways over the past few decades, and so has our knowledge on how the skin reacts and deals with it. It’s no secret that the application of a tattoo causes trauma to the skin and can be a hassle to take care of and heal properly.

I’ve heard and tried countless remedies for the best aftercare for a fresh tattoo over the fifteen years I’v been applying them, some with more success than others;
Over the last couple years though, a game changer has been hitting the market for tattoo aftercare – the medical grade, breathable, adhesive barrier; basically a bandage you can leave on for several days;

The brand I prefer to use is called Second Skin so I’ll be referencing their website on this post. Check them out here https://secondskin. ink First a bit more about what this stuff is. It’s basically a thin medical grade barrier that adheres directly to your skin.

It’s breathable so it doesn’t suffocate your fresh tattoo like plastic wrap or those meat package bandages of the past would;
There’s a bunch of different brands of this stuff on the market, I just prefer SecondSkin because of it’s ease of application and how well it stays adhered over a long length of time including in the shower;

I haven’t tried them all, so I’m sure there are some other brands that are just as good. The application happens after the tattoo is finished. I usually like to let the client chill out for ten to fifteen minutes after I’m done tattooing to give the tattoo a chance to calm don and finish bleeding.

Wiping off any extra blood or plasma will help the bandage adhere better, as well as keep the buildup of additional plasma under the bandage to a minimum. I’ll then apply the bandage in small to medium size strips over the entire tattoo, with a one to two inch additional barrier around it.

Then. that’s it! Occasionally the client will like to replace the bandage the following day if over the first night it has collected so much plasma that the bandage is slipping off. This is fine, but be careful removing the first bandage, as the tattoo is fresh and tender.

Use lots of soft soap and running water. Work it off slow from a top corner, working your way down. Replace the bandage with a fresh one. I recommend leaving the wrap on for 3-5 days. Really the first 48 hours are the most beneficial to the healing process, but as a rule of thumb the longer you can leave it on, the easier of a heal you’ll have (no more than six days though!).

After the bandage is removed continue on with any further aftercare your tattooer recommends. I recommend a small amount of lotion 1-2 times a day until if stops looking shiny. Since I’ve started using these types of bandages, the healing results in my tattoos (especially the large scale multi colored biomechanical work) have gone from solid most of the time to great all of the time.

Color loss, even in areas where I’ve layered multiple passes, is little to nonexistent;
Clients who constantly came back with poor heals have started to come back and not need touchups (I attribute this to the bandage being dummy proof, since the client can’t mess with the tattoo while the bandage is on);

It also serves as a protective barrier to help minimize the chances of infection, so I sleep a little better knowing that even though there’s an added level of protection between that fresh tattoo and all the dog hair, dirty gym equipment, and little kids hands out there trying to mess up my world.

What does SecondSkin do for tattoos?

secondskin Adhesive bandage – SecondSkin™ is a medical-grade, transparent, adhesive barrier that protects new tattoos while they are healing. It is latex-free, waterproof, breathable, and hypoallergenic. It is manufactured under quality-controlled conditions that have been CE-marked and FDA-registered.

Should I wash my tattoo after taking off SecondSkin?

Day 1 – Removing your Second Bandage – After you remove your second bandage, you will want to clean the entire tattoo area using lukewarm water and non-scented soap. Just like when you removed your first bandage, the goal is to remove the blood or plasma and keep the area clean.

You don’t want to use a wash cloth and remember, the best tool you have at your disposal is your hand;
Once you have cleaned the area, you will want to pat dry the area firmly with a clean towel or paper towel to get it completely dry (avoid rubbing as you dry the area);

Finally, follow up with a very light application of unscented lotion. The key here is to avoid over-applying as you want your skin to be able to breathe. Apply whenever needed to keep the area moisturized. What NOT to do: Do not use Vaseline or Aloe Vera on your new tattoo.

Vaseline blocks out oxygen penetration from your skin which causes blurriness. Aloe Vera detoxifies the body by flushing foreign batter, including ink, from the skin which results in some fading. Do not use Neosporin.

Although this product is excellent for cuts and scrapes, it is not good for tattoos. It is not unusual for people to have an allergic reaction to Neosporin. This results in little red bumps on the area and when the bumps go away so does the ink. The final product ends up being a polka-dotted tattoo, remember Polka-Dot Shorts? You don’t want your tattoo to look like that! Avoid using body oils on your tattoo during the healing process.

Can I take SecondSkin off after 24 hours?

It is crucial that you take proper care of your new tattoo. Your tattoo will not heal well if you do not follow these guidelines. Your artist is not responsible for any issues resulting from poor aftercare. Bandaging Do not let anyone touch your new tattoo.

Keep your new tattoo covered to protect it from bacteria;
Leave the bandage on for a minimum of one hour;
If SecondSkin is used, keep on for 2-3 days;
Washing Your Tattoo Use lukewarm water and gentle soap, such as Cetaphil, to gently wash the area;

Do not use a washcloth, just your hand. ( We recommend that you remove the SecondSkin in the shower, allowing water to wash over the tattoo and SecondSkin as you remove it. ) Your tattoo may feel slimy – this slime is called plasma. Try to gently remove as much of this possible, as when plasma dries, it creates scabs.

Gently pat (do not rub) the area firmly with a clean paper towel. *DO NOT use cloth towels as they hold bacteria. * Follow with a light application of Aquaphor or Cetaphil lotion. Use these products for a minimum of two weeks.

*DO NOT use Neosporin or alcohol!* Bathing and Swimming You can shower with a new tattoo. It is ok to get your tattoo wet. But DO NOT soak your new tattoo. Submerging your tattoo can cause damage or infection. Swimming, hot tubs and baths should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.

Scabbing and Peeling After a few days, you may notice some peeling and possibly a little scabbing – this is a normal part of the healing process;
*DO NOT apply ointment or lotion to scabs;
* You will also start to itch when it begins to heal;

*DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH YOUR TATTOO!* If the skin itches, slap it. If it is peeling, put lotion on it. If it is scabbing, let it heal. Sun Protection After your tattoo is healed, always protect it from the sun. Use a minimum of 30-SPF sunblock. TLDR :

Remove the bandage after 2 to 3 hours unless SecondSkin is used –keep SecondSkin on for 2-3 DAYS.
Wash the tattoo area with lukewarm water and gentle soap.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of Cetaphil lotion or Aquaphor.
Don’t scratch, peel or pick at your tattoo.
Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools and the beach during the healing process (approximately 2 weeks)
Always apply a high SPF sunscreen on the tattoo before exposure to the sun

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What NOT to Do:

DO NOT let anyone touch your new tattoo.
DO NOT use Neosporin or ointments other than what was recommended by your tattoo artist
DO NOT apply lotion or ointments to scabs
DO NOT use rubbing alcohol, peroxide or cortisone.
DO NOT use cloth towels as they can harbor bacteria.
DO NOT pick, peel or scratch your new tattoo.
DO NOT soak your new tattoo.
DO NOT expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight.

If abnormal irritation, redness, swelling or fever should appear, please contact your physician. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at [email protected]. com..

Can second skin ruin a tattoo?

IV) ONE WEEK AFTER SECOND SKIN: – 1. Your tattoo might appear flaky. DON’T PICK AT THEM. You might pick the ink out of your skin and the tattoo will heal poorly. Some flakes might appear to be black. It looks weird but it is totally normal. Your tattoo might feel itchy as the flakes keep forming.

Can I take second skin off after 2 days?

To Remove –

Test an edge: Pick an edge of the bandage and peel it away. If it’s difficult to remove, try taking a warm shower to help reduce the stickiness
Remove slowly: Pull the second skin off slowly. It’s very similar to removing a plaster. If you pull too quickly, it’s going to sting. You might also damage the new layer of skin underneath. Just go slowly, and you’ll be fine
Clean: Make sure you wash your tattoo carefully after removing the bandage and apply moisturizer

Should I wipe the plasma off my tattoo?

Wash and Treat – After you remove the bandage, you should wash your tattoo. Use lukewarm water and mild, liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap to gently remove any ointment, blood, and plasma and to completely clean the area. Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap is a good choice; it’s a mild moisturizing cleanser specifically made for piercing and tattoo care.

Never use a washcloth; it’s too abrasive;
Your hand is your best tool;
If your tattoo feels slimy and slippery, you have probably been oozing plasma;
Try to gently remove as much of this as possible; scabs may form if it is allowed to dry on the skin’s surface;

Then, pat—don’t rub—the area firmly with a clean towel or paper towel to get it completely dry. Follow with a very light application of A&D , Bacitracin, or a similar antibacterial ointment—but not Neosporin. This is a wonderful product for cuts and scrapes, but not for tattoos.

Many people have allergic reactions to Neosporin, which can cause little red bumps. When the bumps go away, so does the ink, and you can end up with a polka-dotted tattoo. If you prefer, you also can use a specialty product such as Tattoo Goo Aftercare Salve.

It’s petroleum-free and made with herbs and oils meant to soothe and heal your new tattoo. After that, continue to keep your tattoo clean. After some time has passed, you can use a dye- and fragrance-free lotion when needed instead of ointment to keep the skin soft.

What tattoo aftercare is the best?

Can I take Saniderm off after 2 days?

So, How Long Should I leave It On? – According to the Saniderm’s website instructions, here’s everything you need to know about leaving the bandage on your new tattoo;

After applying the first Saniderm bandage, you should leave it on your new tattoo anywhere between 8 and 24 hours. This is generally when your tattoo will stop oozing and bleeding, and start healing. Everyone’s healing time is different, which means that the so-called weeping stage of the tattoo will vary in duration.
You should definitely remove your Saniderm bandage when the adhesion of the bandage starts to weaken. This is a bad sign, which means dirt, germs, water, and all the other infection-causing particles can enter the tattoo area and potentially cause an infection – if the adhesion is weakened, your tattoo is no longer protected.
You should remove or change your Saniderm bandage if you notice your tattoo bleeds or oozes more than expected (regardless of the time the bandage has been on). This generally occurs in tattoos with colorwork and heavy saturation, since there’s more damage to the skin and more excess ink the tattoo is getting rid of in the first few hours.
Regardless of the fluid buildup, you should NOT leave your Saniderm bandage on for more than 24 hours. After the first 24 hours, you need to clean the tattooed area, and only can you actually replace the bandage, using a new one obviously.
It is recommended to apply s thin layer of aftercare product or moisturizer between the bandages just to keep the tattoo hydrated and moisturized. This is especially recommended to people living in low humidity climates, or those who have dry skin. Now, we are not sure about this Saniderm recommendation, since it is generally recommended not to apply any ointment onto a new tattoo, so make sure to consult your tattoo artist about this one.
Now, the second bandage can be worn for up to 6 days, according to Saniderm instructions. They still recommend you change the bandage if you notice a tattoo leaking. In that case, you should clean the tattoo again, and apply a third bandage. Make sure to leave the third bandage on for approximately 5 days.
Saniderm bandage should not be worn for more than 7 days total, according to Saniderm website instructions.
Once you’ve removed your final Saniderm bandage, make sure to clean the tattoo area using lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Then, tap-dry it using a clean paper towel and leave it to air-dry as well. At this point, you should be fine using thin layers of tattoo lotions to keep the tattoo hydrated. But, do NOT overdo the moisturization, since you can cause moisture buildup, prolonged healing, and infection of the tattoo.

What to do after removing second skin?

Saniderm / Second Skin Bandage: – If your tattoo is bandaged with Saniderm (Second Skin), you should keep the bandage on for 3-4 days. During this time, it is normal to see some fluid build up beneath the bandage. (If the bandage begins to leak, you must remove the bandage and follow the standard aftercare instructions listed below).

After 3-4 days, remove the Saniderm bandage gently under warm running water;
To take the bandage off you must stretch from each side rather than peel it off like a Bandaid;
When you stretch the bandage 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. At this point, your tattoo should be well into the healing process – you may use an unscented, non-greasy lotion (like Hustle Butter, Lubriderm or Aveeno Unscented moisturizer) to keep the tattoo moisturized.

What happens if I take my tattoo bandage off early?

Fresh tattoos can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks to heal. During this healing phase, there are 7 things that can ruin your new tattoo before it has even healed. Bad art from a bad artist It’s possible to ruin your new tattoo by choosing an unskilled artist.

When speaking about skills, I’m not referring to their artistic skills. This would be about the artists’ tattooing procedure and application skills. Everyone’s skin is different skin. Healthy, unhealthy, plump, loose, tight, oily, or dry.

Our skin’s surface, thickness, and tightness are also different throughout our bodies. These differences can have a detrimental impact on how the ink lays into your skin. An inexperienced artist can further implicate this. Finding and choosing an experienced artist goes without question 2.

Keeping your fresh tattoo covered too long Fresh tattoos are open wounds, and after the tattoo session, the artist will cover your new tattoo. Every artist has a different preference for what they use. Some still use the old school plastic Saran Wrap crap made for sandwiches.

Try to avoid using this food cellophane wrap on new ink. Fresh tattoos should be wrapped with a sterile bandage. The best options are medical-grade adhesive bandages and protective tattoo films like Saniderm or Dermalize. Wrapping a fresh tattoo is essential to help the initial healing while providing protection from environmental contaminants like dirt, germs or anything else that should not go near an open wound.

After the wrap has been on for a few hours, you will start to see blood and plasma underneath;
Once this happens, it’s time to remove the wrap, as this can block your skin pores from breathing;
This can ruin your new tattoo before the first day is over;

And trust me, I’ve ruined two tattoos by leaving the wrap on too long as per the artist’s instructions. The bandage or wrap should stay on no longer than 6-8 hours max. If using products like Saniderm or Dermalize, you can always remove it, clean the tattoo and apply a new layer.

Tattoo Infections As discussed above, the post-procedure wrapping helps protect your skin from getting infected. Once unwrapped, keep your skin clean and follow proper tattoo aftercare instructions. This will ensure your new tattoo heals without getting infected.

During tattoo healing, avoid touching your ink unless washing or applying aftercare. It’s very easy to transfer dirt and germs onto your fresh tattoo (open wound) from dirty hands. Sleeping with a fresh tattoo Getting a goods night’s sleep can be awkward during the tattoo healing process.

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Even more awkward is the size and location of your new tattoo. Try to avoid laying on the tattoo, and or having it covered under the sheets or blankets. Covering a fresh tattoo under blankets or sheets can cause a risk of infection.

The bed is a great place for hidden germs that you do not want to get into an open wound. The same as above, your skin needs to breathe, so not covering up under the sheets helps. Then there’s the issue of laying on the tattoo. You risk having the tattoo stick to the bed or pick up dirt and germs.

You can always lay down a clean towel on the bed if you need to. Another option for sleeping is applying a breathable medical wrap like Saniderm. Make sure to remove it as soon as you wake up so that there’s not too much blood and plasma accumulation.

Cleaning and excess water exposure Keeping a fresh tattoo clean goes without question. So never submerge a fresh tattoo underwater. Also, avoid excessive water exposure while showering. Our skin is like a sponge and it will absorb the water, which can damage the tattoo.

When it comes to cleaning your new tattoo, make sure you do this several times a day. You can read our 17 Best Tips To Heal New Tattoos here. Picking or scratching itchy or peeling skin During the tattoo healing stages, some people experience itchy and scabby skin.

The reason for this to happen is part of your skin’s healing process. But whatever you do, resist the urge to pick or peel your skin as this can damage the color and lines of your new tattoo. To avoid or end any itchy peeling skin during tattoo healing, always use a good aftercare product.

Keep your tattoo clean and moisturized several times throughout the day;
Don’t let your tattoo get dry, and only apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare after every cleaning;
Now, in regards to peeling and itchy skin, I have never suffered from this;

I followed the above directions and none of my 21 tattoos have ever peeled or got itchy. Excessive sun exposure Excessive sun exposure is a fast way to ruin a new tattoo. Be aware of any direct sun exposure on your fresh ink. If you must be outside, always keep your tattoo covered, for at least the first 40 days.

Cover Up with clothing or try to stay out of the sun. Never apply any sunscreen on a fresh tattoo. Some of these products have ingredients that are not good for your fresh ink during healing. A list of nasty skincare ingredients will be for another blog.

After your new tattoo has healed, make sure to keep it protected with quality sunscreen product if going outside. Excessive direct UVA/UVB sun exposure accelerates skin aging, which causes tattoo fading.

What does a weeping tattoo mean?

– Every tattoo heals slightly differently depending on each person and where the tattoo is located. The healing process follows a four-stage healing timeline that includes oozing, itching, peeling, and continued aftercare. It’s important to be consistent and strident about aftercare so your tattoo doesn’t get infected.

What happens if Saniderm comes off early?

Here at The Edge we want to ensure you have a happy, safe and effective healing process. In order to meet these promises we use a product called Saniderm, a clear bandage that is applied to your tattoo after completion. If your artist does not use saniderm, follow the verbal instructions they gave you in the studio.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR TATTOO WHILE WEARING SANIDERM : Keep it on for 24 hours;
Normal showering and activity is fine, however do not excessively soak, submerge it under any water, or expose it to any pool, ocean, river, lake, or pond water;

If the Saniderm begins coming off, do not stick it back down, instead remove the plastic early. Additionally, the Saniderm will accrue body fluids and ink under the wrap, your tattoo is not falling out or staining your skin. However, if you notice water under the wrap, then it also must come off early.

After the 24 hour period, remove the Saniderm;
We recommend doing this slowly after cleaning your hands with antibacterial soap and soaking it thoroughly in a long warm shower;
Once removed, simply wash the area gently with antibacterial liquid soap using warm water and skin to skin contact;

Afterwards let it air dry. HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR TATTOO AFTER REMOVING SANIDERM : Still keep it out of any previously described water for 2 weeks. Wait until the area is completely air dried to apply any moisturizer. The main theme of how to moisturize your tattoo is to apply it frequently and lightly.

Ensuring that only enough to keep the area moisturized is applied, as you do not want to suffocate the area with over application of the moisturizer;
The first week of moisturizing will be done using Aquaphor, no other ointments such as A&D, Neosporin, or triple antibiotic will heal the tattoo properly;

Following the first week, an unscented and undyed lotion will be used, a thicker lotion such as a Palmer’s Coacoa Butter is best as it requires less frequent reapplication. If any product stings when applied, do not use it again. There should be no visible moisturizer left on the skin.

If you do over apply or if your skin looks slimey, then moisturize to the areas around the tattoo, don’t wipe away the excess. Moisturize throughout the day, at least 7 times per day, for the first 4 weeks.

After that taper off to at least 3 times per day for the next 3 weeks. There is no maximum amount of times, just do not over apply. If the skin looks like dry skin or feels itchy, then moisturize again. The tattoo area will look red and irritated for a bit, this is normal, as you did just get stabbed with a needle.

During the healing process it is also normal for the area to flake and maybe lightly scab, DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO, rather continue to moisturize;
Contact your tattoo artist with any questions or concerns, we are here for the entire process and to answer any questions you may have;

Clean bedding and clothing are important, as dirt, body oils and other substances can find their way into your new tattoo. THINGS TO AVOID : For the first 3-4 weeks, please avoid any activity that would involve soaking the skin or the tattooed area such as hot tubs, baths, swimming in pools or ocean water, pedicures, etc.

Regular showering is fine. The tattoo only needs to be cleaned with antibacterial soap the one time that the bandage comes off. Any further cleaning should be done in a normal daily shower with soap that does not irritate your skin or sting.

DO NOT WASH EXCESSIVELY, it will dry your tattoo and cause improper healing. It is VERY important to keep a new tattoo out of the sun, as the skin is already traumatized. Any other damage such as a sun burn will have increasingly adverse effects on your new tattoo healing properly.

The most important thing to do in the long term is to use SPF 45 or stronger sunscreen, reapplying every 2 hours anytime your tattoo is subject to the sun;
The sun can damage Tattoos through clothing, so UPF clothing or using SPF under your clothing is the best way to remain protected;

Keep in mind that the sun can fade your tattoos at any point. Therefore, if you want to keep those pigments bold, bright, and beautiful and details from blobbing up, then invest in sun protection. Apply this at least every 2 hours and do not use alcohol based or aerosol sunscreen.

We guarantee our work and offer free touch ups within the first four months with the artist who originally did your tattoo;
This policy does have some exceptions depending on the area of the body the tattoo is located;

There are a million different ways that people claim the healing process should be handled, this method is what we recommend, as this is what has worked best for us. Please do not refer to the advice of a non-professional or an artist who did not do your tattoo for something as important as the safety of your body and the quality of your permanent artwork.

When can I remove tattoo film?

You’ll need to keep your tattoo wrapped in cling film from one to three days. Depending on the size of your artwork this may be longer and your artist will let you know but a general rule of thumb is: Small line-work pieces – keep the cling film on for one to two days.

What happens if you leave a tattoo bandage on too long?

When speaking about skills, I’m not referring to their artistic skills;
This would be about the artists’ tattooing procedure and application skills;
Everyone’s skin is different skin;
Healthy, unhealthy, plump, loose, tight, oily, or dry;

Keeping your fresh tattoo covered too long Fresh tattoos are open wounds, and after the tattoo session, the artist will cover your new tattoo;
Every artist has a different preference for what they use;
Some still use the old school plastic Saran Wrap crap made for sandwiches;

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After the wrap has been on for a few hours, you will start to see blood and plasma underneath. Once this happens, it’s time to remove the wrap, as this can block your skin pores from breathing. This can ruin your new tattoo before the first day is over.

Even more awkward is the size and location of your new tattoo. Try to avoid laying on the tattoo, and or having it covered under the sheets or blankets. Covering a fresh tattoo under blankets or sheets can cause a risk of infection.

When it comes to cleaning your new tattoo, make sure you do this several times a day;
You can read our 17 Best Tips To Heal New Tattoos here;
Picking or scratching itchy or peeling skin During the tattoo healing stages, some people experience itchy and scabby skin;

Keep your tattoo clean and moisturized several times throughout the day. Don’t let your tattoo get dry, and only apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare after every cleaning. Now, in regards to peeling and itchy skin, I have never suffered from this.

Cover Up with clothing or try to stay out of the sun. Never apply any sunscreen on a fresh tattoo. Some of these products have ingredients that are not good for your fresh ink during healing. A list of nasty skincare ingredients will be for another blog.

Can I swim with SecondSkin?

Why swimming with a new tattoo is a bad idea. – New tattoos are essentially open wounds. This leaves them at risk for infections. This also means that they can start looking bad if you go swimming or bathing. It doesn’t matter if it’s salt water, fresh water, chlorinated water or a bath tub.

Don’t soak your new tattoo! But how long should you wait before going swimming? The answer depends on how quickly you heal;
For most tattoo shops the answer is two to three weeks because they use the old method of tattoo aftercare;

At Panumart Tattoo we use a special “second-skin” healing wrap that allows for faster, safer healing. This is why we generally advise our customers to wait 7 days before swimming. That’s also why we recommend visitors to get their tattoo after going to one of Chiang Mai’s elephant sanctuaries.

Can I workout with SecondSkin?

DO ✓ OPT FOR A SHOWER OVER A BATH Be sure to wait at least 24 hours after getting your tattoo before taking a shower, but regardless of which aftercare option you choose to go with, soaking your new tattoo (bandaged or un-bandaged) is always a big no-no.

If your tattoo is still in the healing process without a bandage on, it could cause serious damage. If you are using SecondSkin, it will stay on even when immersed in water so you’re able to shower as normal.

It is water resistant, however excessive exposure to water should be avoided because it could weaken the adhesion and require you to reapply a new piece. DO ✓ USE LIQUID ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP Bar soap is not sterile, it can hold bad bacteria and can pass it on to your tattoo.

Invest in a bottle of unscented antibacterial liquid soap;
DO ✓ LEAVE YOUR BANDAGE ON For at least 2 hours;
However your bandage can be left on longer or overnight, it will not harm your tattoo or the healing process;

DO ✓ CLEAN YOUR TATTOO DAILY After removing your bandage and 2 times daily for the first week. Rinse gently with mildv antibacterial soap and warm water, then apply a thin layer of ointment after patting dry with a clean paper towel. ESPECIALLY AFTER SWEATING! When you sweat you release toxins which sit on the surface of your tattoo, increasing the chances of infection.

After heavy sweating, you must wash your hands and your tattoo before re-applying a thin layer of ointment. DO ✓ WASH YOUR LINENS Preferably before getting your new tattoo since you’ll likely be too tired to do so when you get home.

While you sleep you shed skin, sweat and hair. Anything in your bed or on dirty towels and clothing can come in contact with your tattoo and increase the chances of infection especially within the first 72 hours. DON’T ✗ TOUCH! BUT IF YOU MUST, WASH YOUR HANDS FIRST Anything you touch potentially has bacteria on it.

Once your bandage has been removed, always wash your hands prior to touching your tattoo while it’s still in the healing process. DON’T ✗ SOAK YOUR TATTOO In any bodies of water (lakes, oceans, bathtubs, pools, etc.

) for at least one month after getting your tattoo. DON’T ✗ SUNBATHE OR USE A TANNING BED We do not recommend exposing your new tattoo to UV rays, ever with or without SecondSkin. SecondSkin does not contain any kind of sun protection, so you should avoid prolonged sun or UV ray exposure for at least a month after getting your tattoo.

Even after your tattoo is fully healed, continue to use sun protection to maintain the integrity of your tattoo colors. DON’T ✗ EXERCISE It is not suggested to exercise with or without SecondSkin. If using SecondSkin, sweating can weaken the adhesive and cause the bandage to come off prematurely.

When you sweat you release toxins which sit on the surface of your tattoo. So if your bandage comes off prematurely or if you’ve chosen a traditional aftercare method and don’t have a bandage on it at all, you increase the chances of infection. It’s best to take it easy and avoid heavy sweating in the area of your tattoo for at least two weeks after getting your tattoo.

DON’T ✗ WEAR RESTRICTIVE CLOTHING To your appointment or directly after;
Some areas of the body swell more than others and could either cut off circulation to the area or you could run the risk of your clothes sticking to your new tattoo;

If your tattoo forms a scab do not let it stick to anything. When you pull away, the scab will pull off with it. This pulls ink out and can cause scarring and loss of color. If your tattoo does end up sticking to clothing, rinse the area (and clothing) with warm water to loosen the cloth from the scab without ripping it off.

DON’T ✗ LET PETS NEAR YOUR FRESH TATTOO They track harmful bacteria everywhere they go;
Wash and reapply ointment after contact with animals or anything the animal comes in contact with such as sheets, furniture, etc;

Opting for a SecondSkin bandage is a great way to not have to worry about this!.

Julia