Proper aftercare is an important part of the tattoo process. Following these instructions helps protect your skin and supports proper healing.

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Your instructions may vary depending on the size, placement, saturation, and style of your tattoo, as well as the type of bandage applied. Always follow the specific instructions Andres gives you at the end of your appointment.

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Please read the ingredients before using any product on your skin. If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, patch-test new products before applying them to your tattoo.

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IDENTIFY YOUR BANDAGE

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Your tattoo will be covered with either:

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• A traditional absorbent bandage, or

• A transparent adhesive film such as Derm Shield, SecondSkin, or Saniderm.

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Removal time and care instructions differ for each type.​​

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TRADITIONAL ABSORBENT BANDAGE

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Keep the bandage on for approximately 2–5 hours.

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For large, heavily saturated tattoos, Andres may recommend leaving the bandage on until the following morning. Only do this when Andres specifically instructs you to.

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When it is time to remove the bandage:

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1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Carefully remove the bandage.
3. If it sticks to the tattoo, wet it with lukewarm water and gently loosen it. Do not pull or force it off.
4. Wash the tattoo following the cleaning instructions below.
5. Do not rebandage the tattoo unless Andres specifically instructs you to do so.

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ADHESIVE FILM: DERM SHIELD, SECOND SKIN, OR SANIDERM

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For most tattoos, the first adhesive bandage should remain in place for approximately 8–24 hours.

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For a very small and simple tattoo, such as lettering or linework, Andres may recommend leaving the first bandage on for up to three days, provided that it remains completely sealed and the skin feels comfortable.

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If Andres instructs you to apply a new adhesive bandage, the replacement may remain in place for approximately 3–5 days. The combined use of the first and subsequent bandages should not exceed 6–7 days.

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Only apply a replacement bandage after the tattoo has been properly washed and completely dried, and only when instructed by Andres.

 

Some accumulation of ink, plasma, and blood beneath the film can be normal. However, remove the adhesive bandage immediately if:

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• Fluid begins leaking from the bandage.

• The seal opens and the tattoo becomes exposed.

• You experience intense itching, burning, or irritation around the adhesive.

• Blisters develop.

• You notice an unusual skin reaction.

• The bandage becomes excessively filled with fluid or is no longer secure.

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Once the seal is broken, bacteria may enter beneath the film. Do not try to repair a leaking or partially open bandage.

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To remove the adhesive film:

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1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove it slowly under lukewarm running water or in the shower.
3. Gently stretch the film back over itself, keeping it close and parallel to the skin.
4. Do not pull it quickly or directly upward.
5. Wash the tattoo immediately after removing the film.

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If you are unsure whether the bandage should be removed, contact us and include a clear photo.

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HOW TO WASH YOUR TATTOO

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Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

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1. Use lukewarm water and a fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
2. Make a lather in your clean hands and gently wash the tattoo using your fingertips.
3. Do not use washcloths, bath towels, exfoliating products, brushes, scrubs, or sponges.
4. Gently remove any remaining blood, plasma, ink, or product.
5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
6. Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Do not rub or scrub.
7. Allow the tattoo to finish air-drying before applying any product.

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Clean your tattoo once or twice a day during the first 2–3 days, unless Andres gives you different instructions.

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Do not over-wash your tattoo. Excessive washing can cause dryness and irritation.

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OINTMENT AND MOISTURIZING

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Once the tattoo is clean and completely dry, apply a very thin layer of Hustle Butter or Tiger Spit Balm.

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The product should be gently absorbed into the skin. If the tattoo looks excessively shiny, greasy, or wet, too much product has been applied. Carefully dab off the excess with a clean paper towel.

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Apply a light layer 2–3 times a day for approximately 5–7 days, or until the tattoo begins to peel or flake like a sunburn.

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Once peeling begins, switch to a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion. Continue moisturizing as needed for approximately two additional weeks.

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Do not use products containing fragrance, exfoliating ingredients, alcohol, or harsh additives. Do not apply a thick layer of ointment.

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If a product causes a rash, burning, worsening redness, or irritation, stop using it and contact an appropriate healthcare professional if the reaction persists or becomes severe.

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WHAT TO EXPECT DURING HEALING

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During the first few days, it can be normal to experience:

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• Mild redness around the tattoo.

• Tenderness or sensitivity.

• Minor swelling.

• Clear fluid or plasma.

• A small amount of ink appearing beneath the bandage.

• Itching, peeling, or light flaking as healing progresses.

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The tattoo may look slightly dull or cloudy during the peeling stage. This is usually temporary.

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Most tattoos appear healed on the surface within approximately 2–4 weeks. Larger or heavily saturated tattoos may take longer.

 

WHAT TO AVOID

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While your tattoo is healing:

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• Do not scratch, pick, or peel the skin.

• Do not remove flakes or scabs.

• Do not soak the tattoo in a bath.

• Do not swim in pools, lakes, rivers, or the ocean.

• Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms.

• Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds.

• Avoid tight or dirty clothing that rubs against the tattoo.

• Avoid excessive friction and heavy sweating during the early healing stage.

• Do not allow pets to lick or rub against the tattoo.

• Do not apply sunscreen until the tattoo has completely healed.

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Avoid swimming, soaking, saunas, and direct sun exposure for at least two weeks and until the tattoo is fully closed, free from scabs, and no longer peeling.

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Normal showers are fine, but avoid prolonged exposure to water and strong water pressure directly on the tattoo.

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WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL CARE

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A tattoo is a healing wound. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you experience:

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• Redness that continues to spread or becomes increasingly intense.

• Pain, swelling, or heat that worsens instead of improving.

• Thick yellow or green discharge.

• A bad odor.

• Red streaks extending from the tattoo.

• Fever, chills, dizziness, or unusual weakness.

• Severe blistering, hives, difficulty breathing, or another serious allergic reaction.

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Do not rely exclusively on email or social media if you believe you may have an infection or severe allergic reaction.

 

LONG-TERM TATTOO CARE

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Once the tattoo is completely healed:

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• Keep the skin moisturized.

• Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when the tattoo is exposed to sunlight.

• Avoid unnecessary tanning.

• Contact us if you have questions about how the tattoo healed or whether a touch-up assessment may be needed.

 

QUESTIONS?

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If you are uncertain about the healing process, email us with:

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• Your full name.

• The date of your appointment.

• A clear photo taken in natural lighting.

• A brief description of your concern.

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Email: abctattooinfo@gmail.com 

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These instructions provide general aftercare guidance and do not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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