Tattoo Aftercare Pointers
Your bandage (Saniderm, Tegaderm, or RxDerm) is waterproof and breathable, so you can leave it on for 2–3 days without worrying about it. You may see ink seepage and plasma building up underneath your bandage. Do not panic! It is part of the healing process. Notice that your skin is all red in the shape of the bandage? You may be allergic to medical adhesives—good to know for your next tattoo! Simply remove the bandage, wash, and moisturize per instructions below.
Don’t lay out in the sun or soak in any bodies of water. No thanks, errant bacteria and UV rays!
♡ Leave your bandage on for 2–3 days, and then remove. Pro removal tip: After a nice warm shower, grab a corner of the bandage and STRETCH (instead of pull) AWAY from tattoo (instead of toward). Repeat this all around the edge of your tattoo until it comes off completely.
♡ Gently use fingers to wash with a mild fragrance-free soap (I love unscented Dr. Bronner’s) and cool water. Air dry or pat with a paper towel. Moisturize with an unscented, non-petrolatum based moisturizer (I love coconut oil, shea butter, Lubriderm, or Aveeno).
♡ Repeat this cleaning/moisturizing process 2x a day until it is fully healed. You know your body better than anyone—you will know when you can chill with the aftercare.
You may notice redness, swelling, or tenderness as you heal. This is normal, but it should not last longer than a few days.
If you develop a fever, notice drainage that smells foul, or red streaks forming around your tattoo, go to the emergency room immediately.