Second-skin bandage.
I may apply a second-skin dressing after your appointment. Follow the wear time and removal instructions I give you for the specific product used. My usual guide is three to five days when the dressing remains properly sealed and your skin tolerates it.
- Some ink and fluid can collect under the dressing.
- Short showers are different from soaking. Avoid baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and other submersion while the tattoo is healing, even with a bandage.
- If outside water gets under the dressing, it leaks, or the seal is compromised, contact me about removing it and continuing care.
- Remove the dressing gently under running water according to the product instructions. Don’t pull it off dry.
- Exercise, sweat, friction, and repeated stretching can loosen the seal. Check the product instructions and discuss activity with me.
Reference: Saniderm’s guidance on showering with a second-skin bandage. Product-specific instructions still apply.
Natural healing.
If I use plastic wrap or a soak pad, leave it on until you reach a clean environment, following the timing given at your appointment.
- Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
- Gently clean with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Don’t scrub.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow the skin to dry.
- Apply only a thin layer of the aftercare product we discuss at your appointment.
- Repeat the cleaning and moisturizing routine as directed, usually morning and evening.
Finishing care.
Once the dressing is removed, continue gentle cleaning and light moisturizing as directed while the tattoo heals. Avoid scratching or picking at flaking skin. Keep clothing and bedding clean and avoid friction on the area.
Keep the healing tattoo out of swimming water. Once healed, protecting tattooed skin from the sun helps preserve its appearance.
Additional reference: American Academy of Dermatology: caring for tattooed skin.
When something feels wrong.
Spreading or worsening redness, worsening pain, pus, fever, or chills need prompt medical advice. Contact a healthcare professional if you suspect infection. Don’t wait for an email reply from me.
For routine questions about your bandage, healing, or a touch-up, email me directly. Touch-ups are free for six months; contact me about anything outside that period.
Email Mason ↗Signs of infection: American Academy of Dermatology.
Show me how it healed.
I’d like to see how the piece has settled. Once it has healed, you can send photographs and ask about the next session or a touch-up through the shorter follow-up form.
Send a healed-photo update ↗Before your session.
- Bring your ID, reference images, and anything we’ve agreed on during the consultation.
- Wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the tattoo placement.
- Allow time for your session: 4–5 hours for a half day, 6–9 hours for a full day.
- Tell me about any adhesive, latex, or bandage allergies before I apply a dressing.
- Let me know if you prefer no photos or recording, especially for a sensitive placement.