AFTERCARE
Recovery Derm Shield FAQ
What is Recovery Derm Shield?
Recovery Derm Shield is a latex-free, transparent, adhesive medical-grade bandage that protects your new tattoo. It is also commonly known as Saniderm, Second skin or Tegaderm. It reduces the risk of scabbing and scarring while preventing exposure to bacteria and abrasion.
How long should I leave the derm shield on?
7 – 10 days. Once you remove the recovery derm please keep the area clean and apply moisturizer if it appears visibly dry.
Can I remove the derm shield before 7 days?
If you experience any excessive redness, irritation, or discomfort within the first 24-hours after application remove the derm shield and contact your artist for aftercare recommendations. If you are not experiencing any issues, keeping the derm shield on a minimum of 5 days is ideal. Removing the derm shield early may cause damage to the healing skin and tattoo.
How do I remove the derm shield?
The best way to remove the derm shield is in a warm shower. Do not pull the derm upwards while removing; pull the derm slowly along the skin.
Is the derm shield waterproof?
The derm shield is waterproof, however you should avoid water exposure for the first 12-hours after application. Avoid excessive heat and be aware of the water temperature when showering or bathing. Heat may weaken the adhesive and cause sweating under the derm shield. We do not recommend any exposure to pools, lakes, oceans, hot tubs or any other public-use water sources for the first 6 weeks after your tattoo.
Is pooling/bubbles of ink under the derm normal?
It is normal for your tattoo to get ink pockets (pooling). Although not necessary, you may drain any liquid that develops between the derm shield and tattoo by puncturing a small hole in the derm shield. Be sure to patch the hole with another piece of Derm shield 2-3 inches in size or larger.
Can I work out with the derm shield on?
Light workouts are okay with the derm shield on, however, avoid cardio or any activity that will cause sweating. The derm shield is durable enough to keep up with your everyday activities. If you notice new bubbles of sweat under the derm shield, you should remove the derm shield and inform your artist.
How To Apply Recovery Derm
Your artist may instruct you to apply recovery derm yourself, or your recovery derm may fall off earlier than expected and require re-application. Your derm may also require patches in small areas where the original derm has peeled up or been punctured.
If you have been instructed to apply a derm shield yourself or if the original piece of derm shield has fallen off within 3 days of original application.
STEP 1: Remove any form of bandages or plastic wrap that has been covering your tattoo.
STEP 2: Clean the tattoo with antibacterial soap and water OR 70% Isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol will sterilize the area, however it will burn so you may use antibacterial soap if you prefer. Do not scrub aggressively as this may damage your tattoo. Allow the area to air-dry for at least five minutes.
STEP 3: Prepare your new piece of recovery derm by removing the WHITE film. Once the white film is removed the adhesive side will be exposed and you can gently press the adhesive side of the derm to where the tattoo is exposed. Start the application in one corner\side of the tattoo rather than pressing it into the middle of the tattoo. Gently press the derm against your skin until it feels secure. Do not worry about any air bubbles under the derm as they do not affect the healing process.
STEP 4: Remove the clear side of the derm marked with black X ‘s and the derm should have a matte finish against your skin. Your tattoo should now be covered and ready to heal safely. If there are any additional exposed areas you may need more derm shield to cover them. If you have any concerns about the application of your derm shield please contact your artist.
Traditional Tattoo Aftercare
If you choose to or are unable to use recovery derm, or another form of adhesive covering for tattoo healing, you can follow the steps below to care for your tattoo.
2-3 HOURS AFTER LEAVING THE SHOP:
Remove any plastic wrap or bandaging covering the tattoo. With clean hands gently wash the tattoo using fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap and water. Gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Wear loose fitting clothing over the tattoo to shield it from exposure to contaminants and sunlight. You do not need to use aquaphor or any other moisturizer at this stage. We do not recommend you shower the first night after your tattoo.
MORNING AFTER YOUR TATTOO:
Wash the tattoo off with fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or Hustle Butter. The layer you apply should not be visibly wet, you want it to look slightly shinier than your skin. Over application of moisturizer can cause bubbling on the skin which will damage the tattoo. Repeat this step 2-3 times a day at minimum. Always repeat this step: first thing in the morning, any time the tattoo comes in contact with an unclean surface, and every night before bed.
SHOWERING: Before entering the shower you may apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or Hustle Butter to prevent water from soaking into the tattoo. Do not allow water to directly spray the tattoo. When finished, rinse off the ointment with antibacterial soap and then re-apply a thin layer 1-2 hours later. Do not bathe or soak your tattoo.
DAY 3-4: At this stage your tattoo will likely be peeling/flaking. Switch from the Aquaphor or Hustle Butter to a fragrance free lotion and apply whenever the tattoo feels or looks dry. Do not pick at your tattoo regardless of it flaking and peeling. Picking at the tattoo can create holes in your tattoo.
DAY 7 ONWARD: After 7-10 days your tattoo will appear more healed and have a layer of new skin on top. Continue to clean and moisturize your tattoo as it will not be fully healed until at least 6 weeks after the tattoo procedure. If you notice excessive irritation, discoloration or scabbing at any point in the healing process please contact your artist for assistance. You are also welcome to contact the shop directly for aftercare advice.
WHAT TO AVOID DURING THE HEALING PROCESS
■ Do not follow aftercare instructions from anyone outside of our shop. You may have received differing aftercare advice from other artists or friends. Our aftercare guidelines are based on our tattooing procedures and should be followed as-is. We are available to you if you have any questions or concerns about aftercare.
■ Do not scratch or pick at the tattoo
■ Do not allow pets or children near your tattoo
■ Do not expose your tattoo to sunlight or other intense UV light
■ Do not soak your tattoo in water including: baths, pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes
■ Do not apply any products other than those listed above unless otherwise approved by your artist
■ Do not wear tight clothing over the tattoo
■ Do not sleep on your tattoo