For a traditional bandage, follow your artist's instructions, typically removing it after approximately two hours.

If your artist applied Saniderm or Recovery Derm Shield, do not follow traditional bandage timing. Wear time depends on the product, application, and your artist's instructions.

Once your bandage has been removed, wash your hands and gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.

Rinse thoroughly and gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not scrub.

Follow your artist's recommended cleaning schedule, generally two to three times daily.

Some fluid buildup beneath Saniderm or Recovery Derm Shield can be normal.

If the bandage leaks, the seal breaks, or the tattoo becomes exposed, contact your artist for removal and care instructions. Do not try to reseal a contaminated bandage.

If you develop significant irritation or a reaction to the adhesive, stop using it and seek appropriate advice.

Mild peeling, flaking, and itching are common during tattoo healing.

Never pick, scratch, or pull off scabs or peeling skin. Doing so can damage the healing tattoo and affect its appearance.

Your artist may recommend After Inked or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.

Apply only a very thin layer after cleaning and drying the tattoo. Avoid heavy applications that leave the skin excessively coated.

Follow your artist's instructions regarding when to begin moisturizing, particularly if using second skin.

Gentle showers are generally fine. Avoid scrubbing the tattoo and prolonged water exposure.

Do not swim, soak in a bathtub, or use hot tubs until the tattoo has fully healed. Healing time varies, so two weeks is not a guarantee.

Keep a healing tattoo out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning.

Once fully healed, protect the tattoo with broad-spectrum sunscreen to help preserve its appearance.

Mild tenderness and some redness can occur after tattooing.

However, spreading redness, worsening pain, increasing swelling, pus, fever, or red streaking may indicate an infection and require prompt medical evaluation.

Do not rely on the tattoo shop to diagnose or treat an infection.