Aftercare Guide
Getting a tattoo is only the first step—how you care for it afterwards makes all the difference. Follow these instructions to help your new ink heal beautifully and stay vibrant.
Quick Facts
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Leave the wrap on
Standard plastic wrap can stay for a few hours or overnight if it feels secure.
Second Skin bandage
Remove in the shower the next day; if it’s firm and not leaking you can leave it on up to two more days.
Adhesive gel
Leave on for 12 hours, then wash off gently with warm water.
Take-home Aftercare Pack
If you purchased our kit, you’ll have extra gel. Reapply a thin layer once a day for the next two days after removing your first wrap.
Step-by-Step Aftercare
Remove Bandage / Wrap
Standard plastic: a few hours or overnight.
Second Skin: take off the next day in the shower; or leave on up to 2 more days if secure.
Adhesive gel: peel or wash off after 12 hours with warm water.
If you bought our aftercare pack, use the included gel once a day for the next two days after removing the initial wrap to keep the area hydrated.
First Wash
- Use your open palm under warm water with a mild, fragrance-free or antibacterial soap.
- Gently clean the area—no scrubbing.
Drying Period
Let your tattoo air-dry for 3 full days without applying ointment.
Ointment / Gel Routine
After the 3-day dry period, apply a thin layer of ointment 3× daily: morning, afternoon, and night.
Peeling Stage
Your tattoo will flake/peel—this is normal.
Do not pick or scratch.
🚫 Things to Avoid While Healing
No chlorine pools or beach water
No direct sunlight/tanning
No scratching or heavy sweating on the area
💡 Pro Tips
Wear loose clothing over the area to avoid friction.
Keep your tattoo moisturized but not greasy.
Follow your artist’s product recommendations if given.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Most tattoos take about 2-4 weeks for the surface to heal and up to 6 weeks for full internal healing.
We recommend waiting to Tattoo finishes peeling process for the most optimal results. Wait at least until the skin has fully peeled and closed before going into pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean.
We recommend waiting to Tattoo finishes peeling process for the most optimal results. Light exercise is usually fine after a few days, but avoid heavy sweating or direct friction on the area until the skin closes.
Mild itching is normal—don’t scratch. Gently tap or apply a thin layer of the recommended ointment to soothe it.
This is part of the healing process. Don’t pick. Let scabs/flakes fall off naturally to prevent color loss.