What is an Adhesive Bandage?  

Saniderm, SecondSkin, Dermshield brand bandages are used for convenience and rapid healing. You  are welcome to keep the bandage on throughout the entire healing process. If you do so, the tattoo will  be healed in approximately 1 week. Without adhesive bandages, tattoos take about 2 weeks to heal. 

When Should I Take It off?  

Though your artist may recommend a specific amount of time that they would like for you to keep the  bandage on, adhesive bandages need to be removed earlier if bacteria has a way to reach your tattoo.  Take the bandage off if the build up of blood, plasma, and excess ink leaks out, or if the bandage peels  back and is no longer covering the entirety of the tattoo. In some cases, the adhesive causes an allergic  reaction. Take the bandage off if you notice a rash under or around the bandage. 

When you take the bandage off, use water to help loosen the adhesive. Stretch it outwards while peeling  it off. Once uncovered, please determine what phase of the healing process you are in and follow the  directions (below) accordingly. 

Open Wound Phase:  

The tattoo has not yet formed a scab. It is tender to the touch. Wash the tattoo 2 times daily with  unscented soap and let air dry. Additional washing is necessary if the tattoo touches something dirty  (pets, dirt, etc.). 

Scab Phase:  

A scab has formed over the tattoo. Sometimes the tattoo is itchy during this phase. Washing the tattoo  is no longer necessary. Apply very thin layers of unscented lotion 2-3 times a day. Do NOT over-lotion  your tattoo. Do NOT pick or scratch the scabs off. Once the scabs fall off, your tattoo will be fully healed. 

What Should I Avoid?  

- Touching the tattoo with unwashed hands while it is an open wound 

- Antibacterial products, Aloe Vera, or scented products 

- Direct exposure to harsh sunlight 

- Tight-fitting, dirty clothes or abrasive material such as jewelry 

- Swimming or soaking the tattoo while it is healing. Though Saniderm is waterproof, if a hole occurs  while swimming, the healing can be compromised. It is not worth the risk! 

- Excessive sweating caused by exercise, saunas, etc. Moister in excess promotes growth of bacteria,  can cause the bandages adhesive to loosen, and can negatively affect the way the ink settles in your  skin. 

- Overstretching your skin while it is healing (yoga, weight-lifting, etc.) 

Should I Re-Bandage My Tattoo?  

No. Once exposed to air, your tattoo needs to “breathe” in order to form a scab. Though a new bandage  can be re-applied while the tattoo is still an open wound, your tattoo artist is trained to apply it using  proper sanitary techniques. Tell your artist if you work in an environment with exposure to pathogens,  contaminants, or one in which you must handle food. 

Can I Contact You With Questions?  

Yes. Contact your artist with questions regarding aftercare, especially in cases of infection or allergic  reaction, however keep in mind that Dark Water and your artist are not responsible for the healing  outcome of your tattoo.