Derm shield

You may leave your Derm Shield bandage on for 3-5 days. It’s normal for plasma and excess ink to build up under the bandage. If needed you may remove the first bandage and reapply a new Derm Shield bandage after 24 hours.

Note: If you believe you are having an allergic reaction to the Derm Shield remove it immediately and follow the Traditional Aftercare Instructions.

1. To remove your Derm Shield bandage gently pull the Saniderm parallel to your skin (like a Command strip) to release the adhesive.

Pro Tip:  If Possible Remove Derm Shield in the Shower to Reduce Skin Trauma

Think of your bandage like a giant sticker on a fresh wound. If you rip it off dry, you risk pulling at the skin and causing trauma to the fresh ink. Instead, wait until you’re in the shower. The steam and water help dissolve the adhesive, allowing the film to glide off smoothly.

  2. Gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial hand soap (Dial) and lukewarm water. Let it dry completely before reapplying Derm Shield or aftercare products.

Pro Tip:  Pat Dry or Air Dry Only—No Rubbing Fresh Tattoos Ever

Towels can harbor bacteria and the texture is too aggressive for healing skin. Use a clean, disposable paper towel and gently pat the area until dry. It’s the safest way to ensure you aren't introducing germs to your new tattoo.

‍ 3. With clean hands gently apply water based fragrance free lotion or your chosen aftercare product to your tattoo.

Pro Tip: Once your tattoo starts to peel, apply lotion to keep the skin soft and moisturized. This prevents the "tight" feeling and stops the skin from cracking. But remember not to over-hydrate. A little goes a long way. Over applying lotion or balm can make any scabs soggy leading to patchy healing.

Traditional Healing

1. When you get home, remove your bandage or cling film.

2. Gently wash your tattoo with soap and lukewarm water.

3. Let it air dry or pat dry completely.

Pro Tip:  Pat Dry or Air Dry Only—No Rubbing Fresh Tattoos Ever

4. Carefully apply a small amount of aftercare product or A&D ointment with fingertips to form a thin layer. - do not apply excessively in globs.

Pro Tip: If you’re using ointment only do so for the first 3 days. After that switch to a water based fragrance free lotion or dedicated tattoo aftercare product for the duration of healing.

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For Derm Shield AND Traditional Healing

Do not pick or scratch

Pro Tip: Pat, Don’t Scratch Itchy Healing Skin

The "itchy phase" is a test of willpower. Whatever you do, DON’T scratch. Scratching can pull out scabs and leave permanent gaps in your design. If the itch is driving you crazy, give the area a few pats with a clean hand. It dulls the sensation without damaging the art.

Do wear loose, clean clothing

Pro Tip: Wear Loose Clothing Inside-Out to Reduce Seam Irritation

Even soft cotton shirts have rough internal seams that can catch on healing scabs and peeling skin. If you have a new piece on your torso or arms, try wearing your clothes inside-out while you're at home. It keeps the smooth side of the fabric against your skin and the abrasive seams on the outside.

‍ ‍Do not expose your new tattoo to sunlight or tanning beds for at least 2 weeks.

Pro Tip: 2 weeks is the minimum. Full recovery of your skin’s natural barrier takes 5-8 weeks. Newly tattooed skin is highly susceptible to UV damage causing burns and ink discoloration. If you have to be in the sun use sunblock or keep it covered.

Do gently wash your tattoo with your hand. No wash cloths or shower puffs. Use mild, fragrance free antibacterial hand soap.

Pro Tip: Wash and rinse your hands removing any germs. If you’re using hand soap- relather using the lather to wash your tattoo. Do not use soap straight from the bottle or bar. This can cause overdrying.

Do not submerge your tattoo in water. Showers are fine but no tub, pool, hot tub, or ocean

Pro Tip: Avoid Direct Water Pressure

Cleanliness is key, but a high-pressure showerhead can feel rough on a fresh tattoo. It may actually force water into the open skin or remove scabs prematurely. Showers are fine- just let the water hit the area near your tattoo and run down over the tattoo indirectly

More Tips

Sleep on Clean, Dark Fabric to Avoid Ink Staining Sheets

Fresh tattoos "weep" plasma and excess ink for the first few nights. To avoid waking up to a permanent outline of your new tattoo on your best white sheets, swap them out for darker colored or old ones. Just make sure they are freshly washed.

  Ice Around (Not On) Tattoos to Calm Early Swelling

Heavy linework or long sessions can lead to significant swelling. While ice is great for inflammation, putting a freezing cold pack directly on a fresh tattoo can shock the tissue. Instead, wrap the ice pack in a clean towel and place it on the skin surrounding the tattoo to bring swelling down safely.

If you are concerned that your tattoo is not healing properly please contact your artist. We’re here to help.

Important Note: If redness spreads, heat persists past day 4–5, pain increases after 48 hours, or discharge turns yellow/green or smells bad, contact your artist or a medical professional immediately.