Derm Shield / “Second Skin” Method

Leave your first bandage for 24 hours, and up to 3 days, as long as it is not leaking and there is no allergic reaction. It is normal for some liquid to build up inside the bandage (plasma, ink, etc). This may make the tattoo look fuzzy, bigger than it is, or very dark while it is covered, but will wash off. You can still shower, and it is okay to wear clothes over the bandage.

After 24 hours, or if it leaks at any point, fully remove the bandage, wash the tattoo thoroughly, then with clean hands replace the bandage and leave it on for up to 3 more days. Or, fully remove it and switch to the traditional healing method.

Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

Always have clean linens, towels, and clothing during the healing process.

Do not cover your tattoo with plastic wrap.

While wearing the Derm Shield bandage, and for at least 14 days after the tattoo, avoid:

• Scratching / picking

• Submerging in water (bathtubs, pools, oceans, hot tubs, etc.)

• Soaking too long in steamy showers (except when removing bandage)

• Sweating / exercise

• Sun exposure

• Applying anything other than unscented lotion or tattoo specific healing salve (no essential oils, sunscreen, etc.)'

Remove the bandage and continue with traditional healing instructions if at any point:

• It gets too wet inside (extremely bulgy) or too dry (crinkly)

• The seal on or around the bandage becomes broken, causing any leaking or exposure to the outside

• The skin under or around the bandage becomes irritated (some redness is normal after getting tattooed, but allergic reactions to the adhesive are also possible)

Feel free to reach out if you would like help determining if your bandage needs removal.

To remove the bandage:

• Wash your hands. Soak in the shower or under running warm water to loosen the adhesive. This is the only time you should soak your tattoo.

• Pull up the edges of the bandage slightly, and lather the exposed skin with unscented antibacterial soap and running warm water. 

• Pick an edge and gently pull it up, parallel to your skin (like removing a command strip). Soap and rinse as you go.

• Use soap and water to wash the tattoo and remove any adhesive left behind by the bandage. Do not let the skin soak long enough to get soggy. 

• Let your skin air dry for 10 minutes, or gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. 

• Apply second bandage, or follow traditional aftercare instructions for the remainder of the 14 days.

To apply the second bandage:

• Wash your hands. Ensure that your tattoo is freshly washed and as sterile as possible, as the bandage will seal it in. Do not apply anything to the tattoo before the bandage.

• Remove the white backing, carefully stick to the skin to avoid air bubbles. 

• Remove the clear “+” side once it is securely stuck on your skin.

• Wear the second bandage for up to an additional 3 days, then remove the same way as the first. Follow the traditional healing instructions for the remainder of the 14 days.

• If you choose not to apply the second bandage, switch to the traditional healing instructions for the remainder of the 14 days.