Caring properly for your new tattoo is essential to ensure optimal healing and to preserve the intensity of its colors and details. At Dead Artists Tattoo, we offer you a complete guide on tattoo aftercare, answering questions such as how to heal a tattoo and how long a tattoo takes to heal.

A freshly made tattoo is, essentially, an open wound that requires specific attention to prevent infections and ensure proper healing. Following aftercare recommendations not only protects your health, but also ensures that the design maintains its quality and vibrancy over time.

In our studio, we recommend two ways to take care of your tattoo.

Number 1 — and our favourite it is to use  a  tattoo protective film as know as second skin.

Second Skin is a lightweight, breathable, and waterproof adhesive bandage that acts like a protective barrier over your new tattoo. Think of it as a second layer of skin that shields your fresh ink from dirt, bacteria, and external irritants while still allowing your tattoo to breathe. This medical-grade product is designed specifically to promote optimal healing conditions, ensuring that your tattoo remains vibrant and free from infection.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Once your tattoo artist has finished their masterpiece, they'll apply a thin layer of Second Skin directly over your tattoo. The bandage will adhere gently to your skin, forming a seal that locks in your body’s natural moisture while keeping out harmful elements. This sealed environment reduces the risk of scabbing, scarring, and infection, leading to a smoother healing process.

KEY BENEFITS:

1. Moisture Retention: Second Skin helps maintain the natural moisture balance of your skin, preventing it from drying out. This is crucial for preserving the vibrancy of your tattoo and reducing the risk of scabbing.

2. Breathable Barrier: Unlike traditional bandages, Second Skin is breathable, allowing oxygen to flow freely to your tattoo while keeping harmful bacteria and dirt at bay.

3. Waterproof Protection: Whether you're caught in the rain or taking a shower, Second Skin keeps your tattoo dry and protected. No more worrying about accidental exposure to water during the healing process.

4. Comfort & Flexibility: Designed to move with your body, Second Skin is ultra-thin and flexible, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. You'll barely notice it's there!

5. Faster Healing: By maintaining an optimal healing environment, Second Skin can help your tattoo heal faster, with less itching, redness, and scabbing.

• note: use the second skin for 7 days in case you see any allergic reaction please remove immediately  and use a tattoo cream.

If you  don't want to use the second skin, you can treat it in the traditional way:

Immediate aftercare (first few days)

• Remove the bandage after 12 to 24 hours :

• Wash gently: Wash your hands thoroughly, then gently wash the tattoo with cold water and antibacterial or unscented soap.

• Pat dry: Use a clean paper towel to gently pat the tattoo dry. Do not use a cloth towel.

• Apply ointment: Apply a very thin layer of the antibiotic ointment recommended by our store. 

Ongoing healing (first 2 weeks) 

• Wash regularly: Clean the tattoo 2-3 times a day with mild soap and water.

• Moisturize: After washing and drying, apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free moisturizer. You can switch from an antibiotic ointment to a gentle, unscented lotion after a few days.

• Do not pick: Do not pick or scratch at the scabs, as this can remove ink and cause scarring. Let scabs fall off naturally.

• Wear loose clothing: Wear loose-fitting, clean clothes to avoid irritation and allow the skin to breathe. 

What to avoid

• Direct sunlight: Keep the new tattoo out of the sun for at least two weeks. When healed, use a high-SPF sunscreen to prevent fading.

• Submerging: Do not take baths, go swimming, or sit in saunas or hot tubs for at least two weeks.

• Irritating products: Avoid products with fragrances, alcohol, or harsh chemicals.

• Over-moisturizing: Use a thin layer of moisturizer; your skin should not look shiny.

• Tight clothing: Avoid tight clothing, bra straps, or anything that could rub against the tattoo.