If you still have questions regarding your tattoo or piercing aftercare please call the shop at 860-858-5285
TATTOO AFTERCARE
Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is just as important as the tattoo itself — it ensures your skin heals well and your tattoo looks vibrant for years to come.*iF SANIDERM (SECOND SKIN) WAS USEED ON YOUR TATTOO SKIP TO THE SECOND SECTION*
WITH SANIDERM
The First 24 Hours
• Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with a protective bandage.
• Keep this bandage on for 2–4 hours to protect the area from bacteria and friction.
• After removing the bandage, wash your hands first, then gently clean your tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not rub.
• Do not re-bandage your tattoo.
⸻ Cleaning & Moisturizing ⸻
• Wash your tattoo 2–3 times a day with mild, fragrance-free soap.
• After washing, let it air dry for a few minutes or pat gently with a clean towel.
• Apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free, tattoo-safe moisturizer or ointment (like Aquaphor or a tattoo aftercare cream).
• Use just enough to keep the tattoo slightly moisturized — too much can suffocate the skin and slow healing.
⸻ What to Expect ⸻
• Days 2–4: Some redness, soreness, and light oozing are normal.
• Days 4–14: Your tattoo will begin to flake and peel, similar to a sunburn. Do not pick or scratch at it.
• Weeks 2–4: The tattoo may look dull or cloudy while the deeper layers finish healing. This is normal.
⸻ Do’s & Don’ts Do: ⸻
• Keep your tattoo clean and lightly moisturized.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid rubbing.
• Stay hydrated and maintain healthy skin. Don’t:
• Pick, scratch, or peel at flakes or scabs.
• Expose your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds.
• Swim, soak in baths, or use hot tubs until fully healed (usually 2–4 weeks).
• Use Vaseline, petroleum jelly, or heavy creams. ⸻ Long-Term Care
• Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) to your tattoo once healed to prevent fading.
• Keep your skin moisturized to maintain tattoo vibrancy.
• A well-cared-for tattoo will stay bold and beautiful for years. ⸻ Remember: Healing times vary for each person. Minor redness, itching, and flaking are normal. If you experience excessive swelling, pus, or signs of infection, contact a medical professional right away.
WITHOUT SANIDERM
#1
Right After Your Appointment
• Your artist will clean your tattoo and apply a fresh piece of Saniderm.
• Keep the bandage on for 5 days. It’s normal to see plasma, ink, and fluid build up underneath — don’t worry, that’s part of the healing process, don't drain!
#2
Removing the Bandage
• On day number 5 - wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
• Gently remove the Saniderm under warm water (in the shower is easiest!) to loosen the adhesive.
• Wash your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel (do not rub).
#3
• From here on, switch to a fragrance-free moisturizer 2–3 times daily (Aquaphor or tattoo aftercare are both good options) for 1 week.
• Avoid soaking your tattoo (no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths) until it’s fully healed — usually 2–4 weeks.
#4
•If your saniderm leaks on the first night this is completely normal! - pat dry the saniderm and reseal if possible.
•If a corner starts coming up, and any part of the tattoo is no longer covered with the Saniderm - refer to instruction #2 and take off the bandage (it is no longer doing its job). Move on to instruction
#3
And add as many additional days as you took the sticker off early.
• Avoid soaking your tattoo (no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths) until it’s fully healed — usually 2–4 weeks