Aftercare
Following proper aftercare is essential for healing, color retention, and preventing infection. Please read carefully and follow all steps.
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🕒 FIRST 24 HOURS
Leave bandage on for:
Standard wrap: 2–4 hours
Second skin (Saniderm/Derma Shield): leave on for 24 hours minimum and up to 7 days total. unless otherwise instructed
After removing bandage:
1. Wash hands thoroughly
2. Gently wash tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap
3. Pat dry with a clean paper towel (do NOT rub)
4. Allow to air dry for 5–10 minutes
5. Apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment
⚠️ Do not re-bandage unless instructed
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🧼 CLEANING & MOISTURING (DAYS 2–14)
Wash tattoo 2–3 times daily
Use only unscented soap
Apply a light layer of fragrance-free lotion or tattoo aftercare product
Tattoo should never feel dry or cracked, but also never greasy
Recommended products:
Unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Aveeno, CeraVe)
Tattoo-specific aftercare (as advised)
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🩹 WHAT TO EXPECT
✔ Redness, swelling (first few days) ✔ Peeling and flaking (days 4–10) ✔ Mild itching (normal)
🚫 DO NOT:
Scratch or pick scabs
Over-moisturize
Expose to dirty environments
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🚫 AVOID DURING HEALING (2–4 WEEKS)
Swimming (pools, lakes, oceans)
Baths, hot tubs, saunas
Direct sun exposure
Tight clothing over tattoo
Excessive sweating
Showering is OK — keep it quick and gentle.
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☀️ SUN CARE (LONG TERM)
After fully healed, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen
Sun protection keeps your tattoo vibrant and sharp
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🧴 SECOND SKIN VS. REGULAR HEALING
Second Skin (Saniderm/Derma Shield):
Transparent adhesive film applied over tattoo
Provides a protective barrier
Allows healing without repeated washing
Can stay on for 24 hours to several days, depending on your artist’s instructions
Reduces scabbing and friction
Regular Healing (Standard Wrap / No Film):
Requires washing and reapplication of ointment several times a day
May have more noticeable peeling and scabbing
Requires more care to prevent infection
Second Skin is often preferred for those wanting minimal maintenance and better color retention, while regular healing works fine if you follow the cleaning and moisturizing routine carefully.
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🚨 SIGNS OF INFECTION (CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL)
Excessive redness or swelling after day 3
Thick yellow/green discharge
Severe pain or heat
Fever
If symptoms appear, seek medical attention.
📩 QUESTIONS?
If you have concerns during healing, contact me directly.
Thank you for trusting me with your tattoo.
Email: SeanCynik@gmail.com
— Sean Cynik