DO:

• Exfoliate and moisturize your skin in the two weeks prior to your appointment. Well-cared for skin allows for better ink saturation. (But avoid moisturizing and exfoliating on the day of the appointment)

• Drink lots of water

• Eat nutritious, healthy meals-especially on the day of your appointment.

• Use sunscreen! Sun-damaged skin is difficult to tattoo, and if you are sunburnt we will have to reschedule your appointment.

DO NOT:

• Moisturize on the day of your appointment. This makes the stencil fall off.

• Exfoliate the day of your appointment.

• Shave on the day of your appointment. I will shave you if needed!

• Take any substances that can leave you intoxicated or thin your blood. This includes alcohol, ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve).

Second skin locks in the body’s natural moisture and healing enzymes, allowing the body to heal itself in the most efficient manner possible. After skin has been injured, healing elements are produced to help break down dead tissue and rebuild new tissue. Second skin is breathable and is used successfully for burn victims.

After 8-24 hours, remove the bandage gently in direction of hair growth. If needed, use the warm water in a shower, or some olive/coconut oil to soften the adhesive and roll off.
Wash tattoo with clean hands, warm water and unscented soap. Allow it to air dry or gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. If you are applying a second piece of second skin, do not put any ointment or lotion on beforehand.

How Long Should it Stay on?
The first piece can be left on for around 24 hours. If you notice excessive weeping or fluid, replace it sooner. Wear a new piece for up to 6 days.

Can I Shower While Wearing It?
You can shower, however excessive exposure to water such as baths, swimming, hot tubs and sweating should be avoided because it could weaken the adhesion. If it doesn’t have the proper seal, healing could be affected.

Can I Sunbathe with It On?
Second skin does not contain any kind of sun protection, so you should avoid sun or UV ray exposure, for two weeks. Even after your tattoo is fully healed, continue to use sun protection to maintain the integrity of your tattoo colors.

What If it Comes Off Early?
If it comes off within the first few days, follow the instructions for aftercare without second skin (below). If you’d like to re-wrap it with second skin come see us for another piece, or you can find some in the bandage section of most pharmacies, as prewrapped squares.

Could I Have an Allergic Reaction?
Allergic reactions are rare, however some folks are sensitive to bandage adhesives. If you experience a rash or abnormal skin irritation, discontinue use and follows steps #2-4 from the Aftercare without Second Skin section below. Second skin should never be used on infected skin. Consult a physician if any signs or symptoms develop such as the following: redness at site, hot feeling skin, pain while not being touched, green/yellow discharge (foul smelling) and/or fever.

DAY 1
- After 3-4 hours, remove the bandage gently.
- Wash with clean hands, warm water and unscented soap.
- Allow it to air dry or gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not re-bandage.
- If it seems excessively dry, or if you prefer, apply a very thin film of A&D Ointment, Aquaphor, Bio-Oil or your favorite tattoo healing salve.

DAY 2-14
- Wash your new tattoo approximately 5 times per day for the first 3 days. Washing alone, for these 3 days will help your tattoo heal tremendously. Letting body fluids build up can cause scabbing. Wash 1-3 times as necessary for days 4-7.
- An ointment is not required, but if using one, apply approx. 3 times a day for the first 3 days and afterwards as necessary. Do not over apply in a thick layer or too often.
- Keep away from dusty/dirty and outdoor areas for the first few days. If it’s unavoidable, cover with loose, clean cotton clothing.
- Stay out of sunlight and tanning booths until tattoo is healed, at minimum 8-10 days and 2 weeks is better.
- Do not soak your tattoo in a tub, sauna, Jacuzzi or go swimming while it is healing. Short showers are fine, but avoid prolonged direct exposure to water.
- Swimming/soaking should be safe after 10 days or when the top layer of skin is healed, if you heal quickly – if in doubt wait 2 weeks.
- Do not rub or pick the treated area while it is healing. Loss of pigment and/or infection could occur. Lightly tapping the area can help to alleviate any itching.