Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Taking care of your tattoo is crucial to ensure proper healing and preserve its quality.
Please follow the steps below starting from the moment you leave the studio.
🕓 RIGHT AFTER YOUR SESSION: SECOND SKIN PHASE (Days 0–1 to 3)
- Leave the second skin on for 3 to 5 days or as advised by your artist.
Your tattoo will be covered with a medical adhesive film (“second skin”) right after the session.- Keep it on for 3 to 5 days, depending on what your artist advised.
- During this time, avoid heavy sweating or soaking (no gym, steam, or showering under direct water).
- Expect light plasma or ink build-up under the film
It’s normal to see fluid or ink gathering — don’t worry, this is part of the healing process. - If the second skin starts peeling or leaks early
You can remove it sooner and follow the washing instructions below.
🚿 REMOVING THE SECOND SKIN
- Remove gently in the shower
Peel the second skin off slowly under warm water. Do not rip it off dry — this can irritate your skin. - Wash the tattoo
Gently clean the area using lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap (e.g. Dove or Spectro).
Use only your fingertips, not a washcloth or sponge. - Pat dry with a paper towel
Let the tattoo air dry briefly, then pat it gently with a clean paper towel. Avoid using fabric towels.
💧 DAYS 3–14: HEALING STAGE
- Apply a light, unscented moisturizer
Use a fragrance-free lotion (e.g. Aveeno, Lubriderm, CeraVe).
Apply a thin layer 2–3 times a day — your tattoo should be hydrated but not greasy. - Expect peeling and itching
Your tattoo may flake like a sunburn — do not pick or scratch it. Let it peel naturally.
❗Keep it clean
Continue washing a couple times a day with mild soap and lukewarm water.
🚫 AVOID FOR 2–4 WEEKS
- ❌ No swimming (pools, hot tubs, oceans)
- ❌ No tanning, sunbeds, or direct sun exposure
- ❌ No saunas or steam rooms
- ❌ No tight clothing rubbing on the tattoo
- ❌ No workouts that cause heavy sweating in the tattooed area
❌ No scratching or peeling — even if it itches!
✅ FULLY HEALED (4–6 weeks)
- Your tattoo is healed when the skin is smooth, flakes are gone, and it’s no longer sensitive.
- For long-term care:
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) when exposed to the sun for black and grey tattoos
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 50+) when exposed to the sun for color tattoos
- Keep your skin moisturized
- Stay hydrated
FAQ
How do I care for my tattoo when using SecondSkin or a medical adhesive bandage?
SecondSkin tattoo aftercare simplifies the healing process by creating a protective barrier over the fresh tattoo. Here’s how to use it correctly:
- Keep the First application of SecondSkin on for 24 hours, unless your artist instructs otherwise.
- If the film fills with fluid (normal), do not remove it early unless it becomes uncomfortable.
- After removing the first layer, clean and dry the tattoo, then apply a new piece of SecondSkin.
- The total wearing time is usually 3–5 days.
- Avoid lifting edges; if they curl, trim and replace the film.
- Once removed, continue with light moisturizing 1–2 times a day for another week.
This method reduces scabbing, protects from bacteria, and often results in faster, cleaner healing.
How often should I wash and moisturize my tattoo?
As part of any good tattoo aftercare guide, consistency is key:
Washing
- Wash your tattoo 2–3 times a day for the first 3–4 days.
- Use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free soap.
Moisturizing
- Start moisturizing after the tattoo stops weeping, usually 24–48 hours after the session.
- Apply a thin layer of the recommended ointment or lotion 2–3 times daily.
- Do not over-moisturize — too much product can clog pores and trap bacteria.
Routine care ensures the tattoo stays hydrated without becoming irritated.
What should I avoid during the tattoo healing process?
Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing how to aftercare tattoo properly. Avoid:
- Direct sunlight and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks.
- Swimming pools, hot tubs, the ocean, or baths — only showers are allowed.
- Scratching, picking, or peeling the tattoo as it flakes.
- Tight or abrasive clothing that rubs against the tattoo.
- Heavy workouts that cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area.
Following these restrictions helps prevent infection, fading, and unnecessary irritation.
What is normal during healing, and when should I worry?
During new tattoo aftercare, expect the following normal symptoms:
- Light redness for 1–3 days
- Mild swelling or tenderness
- Oozing of clear fluid or plasma within the first 24 hours
- Itching and light flaking after a few days
- A thin layer of scabs or dry skin
Concerning signs (contact your artist or a medical professional if you notice):
- Persistent redness after several days
- Excessive swelling or heat in the area
- Pus, foul odor, or unusual discharge
- Severe pain or red streaks extending from the tattoo
- Allergic reactions to adhesives (especially with SecondSkin)
Monitoring your tattoo ensures a safe and healthy healing process.
📩 Questions during healing?
Reach out to your artist or email us at info@icontattoo.ca. We’re always happy to help.
Call: +1 (437) 604-6665
