The following care instructions apply specifically to the use of a second skin or dermal bandage — available here at the shop, through our webstore, or via Amazon. A new tattoo is an open wound and remains susceptible to infection even under a protective bandage. Deviation from these steps can compromise your healing and your art.

What to Avoid

Swimming in pools, lakes, hot tubs, or the ocean

Direct sunlight exposure on the fresh tattoo

Allowing people or pets to touch, lick, or scratch

Scratching or picking — premature scab removal pulls ink

Exercise within the first few days — keep equipment away from the tattoo

Excess perspiration that may introduce bacteria beneath the bandage

Step by Step

Immediately After

Once your tattoo is complete, a protective breathable bandage will be applied. Leave this bandage on undisturbed overnight.

The Next Day — The Ink Sack

The bandage will be filled with excess ink and fluid your body could not absorb. This is called an ink sack. It looks alarming — it is completely normal.

Normal & Expected

Remove the First Bandage

In the shower, saturate the bandage with warm to hot water to loosen the adhesive. Peel from a corner and remove slowly.

Cleanse

Wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap — Dial, Softsoap, or a fragrance-free generic brand — using hot water. Rinse thoroughly. Do not allow shampoo or other shower products to contact the freshly cleaned tattoo.

Dry

Pat the tattoo completely dry with a clean towel. Do not rub.

Apply a Second Bandage

Apply a fresh bandage and leave it in place for 4 to 5 days. The bandage will not come off on its own — it must be physically peeled. Avoid activity or excess sweating that could introduce bacteria beneath the seal.

4–5 Days

If You Sweat Heavily

Remove the bandage as before, cleanse the tattoo, and apply a new one. This applies whether the cause is climate, physical activity, or anything else.

Replace as Needed

Remove the Second Bandage

After 4 to 5 days, remove the bandage as before. At this point, your tattoo should be nearly fully healed.

Moisturize

The new skin underneath may feel dry and itchy. Apply an unscented lotion to keep the area hydrated. This phase may continue for up to an additional week.

Long-Term Care

To preserve the vibrancy of your tattoo for life, apply sunscreen of at least SPF 15 whenever the tattoo will be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

SPF 15 Minimum

"A tattoo healed with patience and attention is a tattoo that lasts. Protect it now so you never have to revisit it for the wrong reasons."

Second skin bandages are available at the shop, through our webstore, or on Amazon. We recommend Recovery Shield — the same bandage we apply in-session.

Shop Bandages

Tattoo Aftercare

Charnel House Tattoo