Healing With Second Skin

• Leave your Second Skin on for 3–5 days, unless your artist instructs otherwise. Some ink and fluid buildup (plasma) under the bandage is completely normal. If the bandage begins leaking, the seal breaks, or part of the tattoo becomes exposed, remove the bandage early. If this happens within the first 24 hours, contact or stop by the studio so we can assess it and, if appropriate, apply a fresh piece of Second Skin. When removing the bandage, do so gently, ideally in the shower, then wash the tattoo with clean hands, warm water and a mild unscented soap. Rinse away any remaining fluid or adhesive residue, then allow the tattoo to air dry or gently pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Do not re-bandage unless instructed by your artist.

• After washing, apply a thin coat of aftercare lotion (ex. Hustle Butter) or an unscented, water-based lotion such as Unscented Lubriderm or Aveeno 2-3 times a day, and coat the area with a thin layer of lotion. Do not oversaturate or over moisturize your tattoo. Make sure to wash your hands before applying lotion. Do not use Vaseline or any petroleum-based products for aftercare as they can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infection and scarring. 

• Continue to lotion regularly for the first 2 weeks after removing your Second Skin film.

• Stay out of the sunlight and tanning booths for 4 weeks. Exposure to the sun can cause the tattoo to fade. 

• Do not soak your tattoo in a bath, sauna, or Jacuzzi or go swimming until your tattoo is fully healed, typically about 2-4 weeks. Showers are fine, but it is best to avoid very hot water in the first few days and avoid letting the shower spray hit directly. Avoid heavy workouts involving sweating and do not let your uncovered tattoo touch any gym equipment, especially first week.

• Do not scratch or pick the skin while it is healing. Loss of color and/or infection could occur.

• Always wear clean clothes to cover the tattoo and sleep in clean bedding. But be careful not to wear anything tight against the tattoo that will prevent the area from ‘breathing’.

• Please Note: If you develop significant redness around the adhesive, burning, blistering, hives or worsening irritation, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo gently. Do not reapply Second Skin. Contact the studio if you are unsure what you are experiencing.

Dry Healing

• The healing process without using second skin is similar to healing with it, but it requires slightly more active care. After your tattoo is completed, your artist will clean it and cover it with a combination of Vaseline, an Absorbent Gauze Pack, and Cling Wrap.

• Keep the wrap on for 2 to 4 hours. Afterward, unwrap the tattoo, then gently clean it with neutral or unscented soap. Allow it to air dry or pat it dry gently with a clean paper towel.

• Avoid washing the tattoo under direct running water. Instead, splash water gently on the area or, if the tattoo is large or hard to reach, carefully rinse it in the shower. Once the area is completely dry, you may apply a thin, even layer of an unscented lotion, avoiding those creams containing cortisone.

• You may rewrap the tattoo with cling film overnight to protect it from rubbing against sheets or dirt. However, do not rewrap after the first night.

• Continue cleaning the tattoo regularly and gently, and apply a thin layer of lotion 1-2 times daily for at least 1 to 2 weeks or until the tattoo looks healed. Be careful not to over-apply creams, ointments, or lotions as too much can suffocate the area, wash out the colour or saturation of ink, increase risk of scabs being peeled off, and affect the final healing results.

Aftercare Tips

• Avoid submerging your tattoo in any un-hygienic bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, hot tubs, pools, etc. until healing has fully completed.

• Avoid all beauty and personal care products on or around the tattoo including cosmetics, spray tans, or any products not already mentioned in your aftercare procedures.

• Avoid direct exposure to the sun. When healed, maintain using sunscreen to keep tattoo looking bright and new. DO NOT use sunscreen on a tattoo that is not fully healed.

• Wear loose clothing over your tattoo while it heals to avoid irritation or from potentially ripping scabs off.

• Be mindful that stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, drug and alcohol abuse can cause extended healing times and other difficulties.

• Make sure your bedding is clean to ensure any dirt or bacteria doesn't complicate healing times. This is especially important if you have pets.

• Do not touch your healing tattoo with your hands, unless you are applying aftercare ointment. Your hands should be thoroughly washed before your application process.