Tattoo Aftercare with Second Skin
At the end of your tattoo session, your artist will apply a transparent adhesive film, commonly called second skin, and give you an extra piece for later use.
First application: Keep the film on for 24–30 hours. During this time, you’ll likely notice plasma building up under the film. Don’t pop the bubble. If it starts leaking, gently dry the edge and reseal it with a small strip of second skin. If the seal breaks and you don’t have more second skin to reapply, remove the film completely.
Removal: When it’s time to take it off, soften the film under warm running water for a few minutes (best done in the shower). Avoid submerging it fully. Wash your hair and body first so no shampoo or soap irritates your fresh tattoo. Always peel the film off while wet to reduce discomfort and avoid skin irritation.
Cleaning: After removal, gently but thoroughly wash the tattoo with unscented soap using only your hands — no scrubbing tools. Rinse by splashing water with your hands rather than letting a direct stream hit the tattoo. Pat dry with a clean paper towel, let it completely dry for 15-30 minutes, then apply the new piece of second skin. Keep this one on for another 4–5 days.
Second removal: Repeat the same removal steps. Afterward, start moisturizing with tattoo balm or unscented lotion. Apply a thin layer after showering or when the tattoo feels tight, but avoid over-moisturizing. Do not use antibiotic creams, petroleum jelly products (e.g., Vaseline, Aquaphor), or oils.
Healing: It’s normal for the tattoo to itch or flake over the next 1–2 weeks. Do not scratch or pick at it.
Restrictions (first 2 weeks):
No submerging the tattoo in water (baths, swimming, hot tubs, saunas).
No tanning or sun exposure on the tattoo.
Avoid hot yoga or strenuous activities that cause heavy sweating while the film is on.
For black and grey tattoos: You do not need to reapply the second skin. The first application can stay on for 4–5 days, after which you can follow the steps starting from “Second removal.”
Warning signs: If you notice unusual redness, pus, throbbing, or increasing pain, contact your doctor right away and inform your tattoo artist.
Tattoo aftercare without Second skin
For multi-day sessions or very large tattoos, where second skin cannot hold the amount of plasma, we do not use it. Instead, at the end of your session your artist will place a two-sided bandage: one side absorbs fluids, while the other side is waterproof to protect your clothes and bedsheets. You will also be given an extra bandage to take home.
First Bandage Change & After Removal (First Night)
After about 6–7 hours (before going to bed), remove the bandage and replace it with the extra one provided. Before applying the new bandage:
Gently wash the tattoo with unscented soap using only your hands — no scrubbing tools.
Make sure no dry plasma remains. The skin should feel smooth with no sticky or shiny buildup.
Rinse by splashing water with your hands instead of letting a direct stream hit the tattoo.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel and let the tattoo air dry for 20–30 minutes.
Do not apply moisturizer at this stage.
Morning Care (Next Day)
In the morning, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo again with unscented soap.
Let it dry completely — this may take 30–60 minutes.
If plasma continues to surface (tattoo looks wet or shiny), gently wipe it with a clean, damp paper towel.
The goal is to keep the tattoo fully dry with no plasma left on top, as dried plasma can form scabs and cause patchy healing.
Once the tattoo is completely dry, apply a very thin layer of moisturizer. Do not use antibiotic creams, petroleum jelly products (e.g., Vaseline, Aquaphor), or oils.
Washing Schedule
First 2–3 days: Wash the tattoo 3 times a day.
Next 5 days (during peeling): Wash twice a day — morning and evening.
⚠️ Important: Do not shower with a fresh open tattoo for the first 4–5 days after your session.
Restrictions (First 2 Weeks)
No submerging the tattoo in water (baths, swimming, hot tubs, saunas).
No tanning or direct sun exposure on the tattoo.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause heavy sweating or risk damaging the skin.
Warning signs: If you notice unusual redness, pus, throbbing, or increasing pain, contact your doctor right away and inform your tattoo artist.