How Long Should I Keep My Tattoo Wrapped In Saniderm?

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.

Contents

0.1 How long should I leave Saniderm on a new tattoo?
0.2 Do tattoos heal faster with Saniderm?
- 0.2.1 What happens if Saniderm comes off early?

1 Can I take Saniderm off after 3 days?
- 1.1 Can I leave Saniderm on for 7 days?
  - 1.1.1 How do I know when to remove Saniderm?
2 How do I know when my tattoo is healed with Saniderm?
3 What to do after Saniderm is removed?
4 Should I take Saniderm off if its peeling?
5 Does tattoo peel after Saniderm?
6 Should I keep my tattoo wrapped for 5 days?
- 6.1 Is it okay to have air bubbles in Saniderm?
7 Can I take off Saniderm after 4 days?

How long should I leave Saniderm on a new tattoo?

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

Get excited! Your tattoo day is finally here 🙂
Please make sure you are well rested, hydrated, and have eaten at least 3 hours prior to your appointment.
Keep in mind, my private studio is a CASH ONLY shop.
Remember, your non-refundable deposit comes off the price of your piece on your last session.

AFTERCARE Saniderm

Keep the Saniderm on for a minimum of 24 hours, and a maximum of 4-5 days. The longer you are able to keep it on, the more your tattoo will be able to heal while bandaged. During this time there will be a buildup of fluid (plasma, ink, blood) underneath the bandage—this is normal, and should stay contained within the Saniderm.

To remove the Saniderm—while in the shower, slowly peel/roll the Saniderm off. This will be uncomfortable but will not damage your tattoo. Once the Saniderm is completely removed, thoroughly wash your tattoo and continue with aftercare as instructed below.

Regular Absorbent Bandage

Keep your tattoo bandaged for a minimum of 4 hours, maximum of 12 (overnight, if your appointment finishes in the evening).

Once you’ve removed the bandage.

Whichever bandage you’ve had, once it comes off you need to immediately wash your tattoo very thoroughly with warm water and unscented liquid soap. Diluted Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Baby-Mild is recommended.

Pat your tattoo dry and leave it alone! Keep it clean, dry, and out of the sun throughout the healing period (approximately 2 weeks). Wash/rinse it once a day in the shower, but no more than that as over washing can slow down the healing process.

If your tattoo starts feeling tight and dry around the third day, you can use a s mall amount of plain, unscented lotion or tattoo-specific ointment two-three times a day to moisturize your tattoo and the surrounding skin. I recommend Redemption Tattoo Aftercare. But be careful! It’s very common to use too much moisturizer – if you need to moisturize, do so sparingly.

Your tattoo will flake and peel, and may feel itchy. Do not pick it or scratch it!

Once your tattoo is fully healed, make sure to use sunscreen to protect the colour from fading due to UV exposure.

For pieces that are works in progress, you need to leave a minimum of 3 weeks between appointments to allow for healing.

Do tattoos heal faster with Saniderm?

Results of New Tattoo Care Using Saniderm – Saniderm has helped hundreds of thousands heal their new tattoos with ease. Tattoos using Saniderm heal faster, experience less scabbing and peeling, and undergo significantly less early tattoo damage. Saniderm grants an effortless and convenient tattoo healing experience, leaving behind vivid and stunning tattoos.

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.

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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.

Can I take Saniderm off after 3 days?

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.

Can I leave Saniderm on for 7 days?

After you apply the first Saniderm bandage , we recommend leaving it on your new tattoo for between 8 to 24 hours. Everyone heals differently, and the length of time will vary depending on how much fluid your tattoo is weeping. When the adhesion of the Saniderm bandage begins to weaken, that’s your cue to remove or replace the bandage.

If you notice excessive weeping or fluid under your currently applied piece of Saniderm, it’s okay to carefully replace it with a new one;
If your tattoo exudes more plasma and blood than usual, you may find yourself having to change it earlier;

This is common with heavy saturation and color work. Regardless of how much fluid build-up you experience , you should always change the initial film at the 24-hour mark to clean the area. Before replacing your Saniderm with a new bandage, you may apply a thin layer of Sanibalm or aftercare product.

If you live in a climate with high humidity or have naturally oily skin, this is not necessary;
But for those in low humidity climates or who have dry skin, a thin layer of moisturizer can help ease discomfort and itchiness due to dry skin;

Once you’ve applied the second bandage , it can be worn for up to 6 days. If you find the tattoo weeps into the second piece , remove it at the next 24 hour period. Then wash the tattoo , apply aftercare if needed, and apply a third piece. This third piece can be worn for up to 5 days.

How do I know when to remove Saniderm?

How do I know when my tattoo is healed with Saniderm?

Things To Know – The tattoo will typically continue to ooze some leftover ink, blood, plasma, lymph, and other bodily fluids the first day or so after your appointment. The bandage will keep all of this nicely sealed inside. The more coverage your tattoo has, the more build-up you’ll see accumulate. Saniderm Tattoo Aftercare with Build-Up There may be some more build-up in the following days, but it’s usually minimal after the first day or so. You’ll wear the second bandage for 5-7 days, after which you can remove yourself. To help with the adhesive, we recommend removing the bandage in the shower or under warm water, if possible. After the bandage is off, clean it thoroughly with non-scented, antibacterial soap.

It doesn’t look the best, but trust us, it’s perfectly normal! When we change out the Saniderm, we clean all of this off;
If there is any residual adhesive on the skin, you can lightly try to rub it off;

If that doesn’t cut it, sparingly use 70% isopropyl alcohol on a clean paper towel to gently remove any remaining glue. During the first week, with the Saniderm on, the body will heal the tattoo better than any ointments or creams. Once you pull the Saniderm off after a week or so, the tattoo should be healed up! You’ll just want to apply a non-scented lotion periodically to keep it moist.

What to do after Saniderm is removed?

Once you remove the saniderm from your tattoo, make sure to gently wash it with unscented antibacterial soap and pat or air dry. Apply a very thin layer of suggested aftercare ointment 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks, until the tattoo is fully healed (no more peeling, dry, or cracked skin).

Should I take Saniderm off if its peeling?

Properly caring for your new tattoo is just as important as getting it. Following instructions will help ensure your Tattoo heals as it should.

These steps do not guarantee that you will not have any issues, however, if followed correctly, they will reduce the chance of some of the avoidable issues. Everyone is different!!!! This makes each person’s healing just as unique as the tattoo they receive.
Give your body permission to do its miraculous healing. Be patient with healing and diligent with your investment! It takes time!
Your tattoo will release plasma and ink from the top 2 layers of skin into your “Saniderm” second skin bandage(s) for up to 48 hrs after your session. Amounts vary. It may appear as a squishy, muddy colored waterbed like mixture, “Soup”. For some it does leak. If so, gently wipe the leaks and do not lift the edges or change it until 24hrs after the session. Sleep with a towel under you and don’t wear white that day.
You have been given a second bandage of the same size to reapply in 24 hours. (Saniderm helps reduce prolonged skin peeling and helps the skin to retain better color. )
Remove your Saniderm bandage after 24 hrs. ~ Gently pulling the bandage back on itself in the direction of hair growth. Avoid pulling upwards. This can be done in the shower but must not be exposed to scented soaps or hair products.
Once removed wash the whole area with a completely clean, warm moistened cloth or your hands and unscented soap. If not, just water. Rinse area well and allow to air dry completely !
Once TOTALLY dry, apply the second “Saniderm” bandage that was provided.
It will not stick to you if you are still moist. Recruit a friend if your tattoo is in a difficult place to reach.
To Apply – Take the white film off first; align the bandage and place on your tattoo, smoothing it from the center towards the edges. Once in place, SLOWLY peel away the clear, 2 piece film and gently smooth out the bandage to cover the tattoo.
This 2nd bandage should be left on for 5-10 days. The longer the better!
When it’s time to take it off , follow the same instructions as described above in steps 6 & 7. Continue to wash twice daily for the next few days once “Saniderm” is gone. You can now use a non-fragrant lotion. We recommend getting Unscented Curel lotion.
If your tattoo sticks to fabric at any point during healing. Remove it very gently by getting the fabric & tattoo area wet and then separate. Once off, wash gently with a warm cloth to release any residue. Keep it clean!!!

Healing and peeling times vary from person to person. Relax and try to enjoy your new Tattoo Art through its healing process.
Tattoo’s often go through a second peeling layer similar to molting, like a snake’s skin. It may appear shiny and can take several weeks for some tattoos to finish. This is also normal. In both layers of peeling, the dead skin will contain color. It’s normal. Remember. 1st & 2nd layer leaves!
Your tattoo may feel tight, be warm/hot & or can have a pink halo around it. This is normal for many and can come and go during the first week. You’re healing and your skin is angry, it’s all part of the process.

PLEASE NOTE: During and after the healing period, your tattoo may appear dull or less vibrant than it did when you first got it. It will get brighter again when it’s done healing, but do remember, all healed tattoos are less bright when healed than when they are fresh. As they are now beneath two healed layers of skin. This applies to all styles and colors of tattoos. Swelling, tightness, warm/hot &/or can have a pink halo around it.

These are all normal for many and can come and go during the first week or so. You’re healing and your skin is angry, it’s all part of the process. Sun exposure will always contribute to the fading of ALL tattoos.

Keep them bright and beautiful by using good sunscreen any time you are in the sun. PLEASE AVOID :

Other products during healing that have not been recommended.
Direct sun exposure to your tattoo for the first two weeks. (Sun can cause blisters on your healing tattoo)
Submerging your tattoo in any type of water for the first two weeks, including: baths, hot tubs and all swimming. A gentle shower is ok as the “Saniderm” is waterproof. If you are not using the Saniderm bandage, please do not soak your tattoo at all for the first 2 weeks.

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* If your tattoo begins to seep yellow fluid any time after the first week, it may be an indication that you have exposed it to a post tattoo infection that can be caused by a variety of things; i. including the fabric on your clothes, pet hair/dander, pets in your bed, reaction to touching your hands or possibly children’s hands on it, exposure to contaminants in the air, depending on your job/activities, food particulates/kitchen prep or the adhesive in the wrap or cover. Your safety and happiness matter to us! Please follow these instructions below IF YOU ARE NOT using the Saniderm Bandage or it has come off early:

Once the wrap is removed or the Saniderm bandage has come off (See steps 6 & 7 for proper removal if it is falling off), gently hand-wash your tattoo with warm water and fragrance free soap. This can be done in the shower but must not be exposed to scented soaps or hair products.
After your first wash, air dry or pat dry with a CLEAN towel.
Wash your new tattoo 2-3 times a day, at least, for the first week.
If your job or activities the week of your tattoo will expose your tattoo to dirt, germs, particles, chemicals or anything that can land or absorb into your skin, please re-wrap your tattoo with clean, cling wrap. It MUST be an untouched section. Take that off after your activity.
Protect it from getting anything in it or on it until it is finished with the first layer of peeling or it can get infected!!!It is CRUCIAL that you keep your tattoo contaminate free! Be diligent to protect your new investment.
Your tattoo may feel tight, be warm/hot & or can have a pink halo around it. This is normal for many and can come and go during the first week. You’re healing and your skin is angry, it’s all part of the process.
Your tattoo will begin to heal with a crunchy scab like layer. This is normal. Often this stage can be very itchy and unattractive. Do NOT scratch it.
Your body is in the process of releasing the top two layers of your skin (the 1st & 2nd dermal layer) these layers WILL contain color! It IS totally NORMAL! Please be PATIENT!

Does tattoo peel after Saniderm?

Saniderm and Tattoo Scabbing – Once again, we always advise users to change the first Saniderm bandage within the first 24 hours, take it off, and clean the tattoo like normal. Allow the area air dry for a few minutes before applying a second bandage, which can be left on for up to 7 days.

To further prevent scabbing and peeling underneath your Saniderm bandage, you can apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare such as Sanibalm before applying your second bandage;
This step is especially helpful if your tattoo is dry or itchy;

If your tattoo is still weeping, Sanibalm is not necessary. If your tattoo IS scabbing underneath Saniderm, as long as there are no signs of infection or contamination, we recommend leaving the bandage on. Removing Saniderm from a scabbing tattoo may pull the scabs off prematurely, disturbing the ink and resulting in color and detail loss.

If you need to remove the bandage from a scabbing tattoo, do so with caution and be sure to check out our guide on how to remove Saniderm. Speak to your tattoo artist for additional questions and concerns.

Looking for more information about proper Saniderm usage? Ask our extensive tattoo knowledge base or check out our entire guide to new tattoo care !.

Should I keep my tattoo wrapped for 5 days?

⏳ How long should I keep my tattoo covered with cling film? – After you leave the salon or your tattoo artist, you need to keep the tattoo wrapped for 2-4 hours if you use simple cling wrap (plastic foil). If you have a protective tattoo film, then keep it for 3-5 days.

Is it okay to have air bubbles in Saniderm?

You notice an air bubble under your freshly applied Saniderm bandage — now what should you do? While an air bubble under Saniderm is not necessarily “bad,” it will likely cause problems with adhesion further on down the line. If you find yourself in this predicament, we recommend these two options: A: Simply make a small cut, let the air bubble out, and apply an additional small piece of Saniderm over the newly exposed area.

This is the option we generally recommend, just because it’s fast and easy;
Be cautious when making the incision, however, as you don’t want to harm the tattoo below;
Don’t apply too much pressure and try to make the smallest slit possible—just enough to release the air trapped inside;

B: Or, perhaps you don’t have any more Saniderm on hand. If this is the case, gently attempt to push the air bubble out by hand. Take caution during this process — go slowly and be attentive. It is important that you keep your tattoo completely sealed. If you poke a hole in the air bubble, it is vital that you apply an additional piece of Saniderm over the top.

Leaving this hole exposed puts you at risk of infection as bacteria can enter the film through the open hole;
In addition to bacteria, showering with an exposed hole in your Saniderm will allow water to collect inside the film and loosen the adhesive;

Have additional questions about Saniderm? Read more about how Saniderm works , where Saniderm came from , and why Saniderm is better than its alternatives in Saniderm’s tattoo knowledge base !.

Can I take off Saniderm after 4 days?

SANIDERM – Follow these instructions if a clear film bandage was applied at the end of your appointment. If given one piece of Saniderm:

Leave this piece on for 3-4 days, depending on amount of fluid collected under the bandage. It is normal to see some fluid under the bandage! Your tattoo may look muddy or hazy underneath. Excessive fluid will affect the adhesion of Saniderm.
After 3-4 days, remove Saniderm under warm running water, such as a shower. Find an edge and pull the bandage back over itself slowly and gently, in the direction of hair growth. Pulling upward on Saniderm can be painful. Never remove Saniderm without running water, this can cause abrasions on your skin!
Wash your tattoo with unscented antibacterial liquid soap, pat dry with a paper towel. You may now apply a fragrance free moisturizer such as Lubriderm or Aveeno. Use a very thin layer so your tattoo can breathe. It should not feel wet or gooey.
Wash 1-2 times a day and apply your fragrance free moisturizer until your tattoo begins to peel or flake.
After your 2 week healing time, you may stop washing but keep using fragrance free lotion until your skin returns to its normal state (no peeling, flaking, itching, dryness).

If given two pieces of Saniderm:

Leave the first piece on for 8-24 hours, depending on amount of fluid collected under the bandage. Excessive fluid will affect the adhesion of Saniderm.
After 8-24 hours, remove Saniderm under warm running water, such as a shower. Find an edge and pull the bandage back over itself slowly and gently, in the direction of hair growth. Pulling upward on Saniderm can be painful. Never remove Saniderm without running water, this can cause abrasions on your skin!
Wash your new tattoo with unscented antibacterial liquid soap. Do not use foaming soaps or bar soaps. Pat dry with a paper towel or air dry.
Apply your second piece of Saniderm directly after. Do not apply any moisturizes or lotions to the area, as they will affect the adhesion of Saniderm.
You can wear the second piece up to 5-7 days. It is normal to still see some fluid under the bandage! Your tattoo may look muddy or hazy underneath.
After 5-7 days, remove the second bandage the same as the first, under running water by pulling slowly and gently with the direction of hair growth.
Wash your tattoo with unscented antibacterial liquid soap, pat dry with a paper towel. You may now apply a fragrance free moisturizer or lotion to your tattoo!
Wash once a day and moisturize as needed until the end of your 2 week healing time. You may still peel or flake, you may not!
After your 2 week healing time, you may stop washing but keep using fragrance free moisturizer or lotion until your skin returns to its normal state (no peeling, flaking, itching, dryness).

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Saniderm is waterproof, so you may take showers while wearing it, but please limit your exposure to water. You may have redness around the edges of your bandage, or if your bandage is on a crease/bend in the skin. If you notice any type of allergic reaction, rash, excessive fluid from the tattoo, burning, or acne, take off your Saniderm IMMEDIATELY! Do not exercise while wearing Saniderm, as your sweat will be trapped under the bandage.

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.

How do you know when to take off Saniderm?

Saniderm Removal – 1. To remove Saniderm, find an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. The shower is the ideal place to remove Saniderm. Running water will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable.

Dry removal of Saniderm may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin;
Discard the used bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild soap, preferably fragrance-free;
Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a clean towel;

Repeat the process, using a new piece of Saniderm starting at step one if you have fluid build up within the first day or two. In the first twenty-four hours there may be a build up of blood, ink, and/or plasma underneath the Saniderm. This is completely normal.

You do not want to leave the build up for more than one day;
Remove Saniderm when there is build up, clean and dry the tattooed area and re-apply;
If you develop an adverse reaction, discontinue use immediately;

Once you remove the Saniderm for good, if desired, apply a thin layer of aftercare product to your tattoo. Use a thin layer of petroleum-free moisturizer to help the tattoo retain moisture and itch less. Do not reapply any more bandages after the scabbing/flaking phase of tattoo healing has begun.

Can I take Saniderm off after 1 day?

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.

Can Saniderm rip out ink?

To further prevent scabbing and peeling underneath your Saniderm bandage, you can apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare such as Sanibalm before applying your second bandage. This step is especially helpful if your tattoo is dry or itchy.

If you need to remove the bandage from a scabbing tattoo, do so with caution and be sure to check out our guide on how to remove Saniderm. Speak to your tattoo artist for additional questions and concerns.

Looking for more information about proper Saniderm usage? Ask our extensive tattoo knowledge base or check out our entire guide to new tattoo care !.

Can I take Saniderm off after 48 hours?

Leave Saniderm (clear bandage) on for 24-48 hours. This will prevent any irritation to your new tattoo and will prevent ink/blood staining on your bed.
Upon removing the Saniderm, wash the tattoo using a mild antibacterial soap and warm water. Take care to wipe away all traces of ink and plasma gently with your hand during the initial washing. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel and let it breathe for at least 5 min before applying ointment.
Once dry, apply a very thin coat of ointment to the tattoo. We recommend using Aquaphor or coconut oil. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap prior to applying ointment EVERY TIME. Only use enough to make it shine, a little goes a long way. Too much ointment traps germs into your new tattoo which can potentially lead to infection.
Repeat the cycle of washing, drying, and applying ointment to the tattoo 2 times per day for the rest 3-5 days. Wash in the morning, apply ointment, wash before bed and apply ointment. Don’t over-ointment, don’t scratch it, bump it, or fuss over it too much. Protect its space and allow it to heal by keeping it unbothered and clean at all times.
Apply unscented moisturizer 1-2 times a day for days 4-14, until flaking has completed. It is perfectly normal to see small akes falling o during this stage of healing.
You must keep your tattoo clean and dry! Long hot showers, baths. swimming, etc. must be avoided for 2 weeks. Do not shave over your new tattoo for at least 2-3 weeks.
Please refrain from scratching or picking at the tattoo. Scrubbing with a washcloth can be very harsh on a tattoo and will cause your colors to fade. Disrupting the tattoo while it’s healing can also cause scar tissue. It is normal for the tattoo to become very itchy during the healing time. If you must, slap your tattoo if it itches unbearably. Just remember not to pick or scratch no matter what !
Keep it out of the sun. Sun exposure will dry out your tattoo and could cause it to form a horrendous scab resulting in fading before it is even healed. Wait until it is fully healed to go back in the sun or a tanning bed. Never put sunblock on a tattoo that is still healing, always put sunblock on healed tattoos.

Following all of these simple steps will ensure that you end up with the best result with minimal complications. I hope you reference this as needed and take great care of your new piece of art..

Julia