DO	DON’T	AVOID
Keep it clean: hands, clothes, sheets.	Don’t pick, peel, or scratch.	Pools, hot tubs, baths, lakes, ocean (no soaking).
Moisturize lightly only if dry.	Don’t let pets lick your tattoo.	Heavy sweating for the first few days.
Wear loose, breathable clothing.	Don’t over-moisturize or use heavy ointment.	Direct sunlight or tanning while healing.
Protect from sun; use SPF after it’s healed.	Don’t use fragrant  soap or lotion. Many “unscented” products have added fragrances.	Tight or abrasive clothing on the tattoo.

Recommended After Care Products

We sell some aftercare products in the shop, we also highly recommend the following tattoo aftercare. All products listed are cruelty free except for aquaphor which includes animal products.

TATTOO AFTERCARE	SOAPS	LOTIONS
Recovery brand After Care Products	Dr. Bonner’s Fragrance Free	Aquaphor (contains animal products)
Hustle Butter After Care		Coconut Oil

Aftercare with Derm Shield

Keep the derm shield on for 5-7 days.

● Small pockets of ink/fluid are normal.
● Remove early only if you are experiencing severe redness, burning, itching or leaking.
● Do not reapply after 24 hours.
(Reapply derm shield in sanitary conditions, only when the tattoo has not been exposed to contaminants.)

Removing the derm shield:

● Remove the derm shield in a hot shower; the heat and moisture help loosen the adhesive.
● Gently pull the derm shield along the skin (not upward) to avoid irritation. (Remove the derm shield similar to how you would remove a command strip.)
● After removal, gently wash the tattoo with fragrance-free soap.
● Moisturize the tattoo when visibly dry by applying a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer.

Derm Shield FAQ

What is a Derm Shield?

Derm Shield is a latex-free, transparent, adhesive medical-grade bandage that protects new tattoos. Derm shields reduce the risk of scabbing and scarring while preventing exposure to bacteria, irritants and abrasion.
Brands include: Recovery, Saniderm, Second Skin and Tegaderm.

How long should I leave the derm shield on?

Leave the derm shield on for 5-7 days if it remains sealed and comfortable.

Can I remove the derm shield before 5 days?

Yes. Remove immediately if you notice excessive redness spreading beyond the tattoo or burning or itching that worsens. After early removal of the derm shield, switch to traditional aftercare for the remainder of the healing period. If no issues occur, keeping it on for at least 5-7 days is ideal.

Can I reapply new derm shield?

Reapplication is only recommended within the first 24 hours after initial application. Derm shield must be reapplied in sanitary conditions, only when the tattoo has not been exposed to contaminants.

Is fluid buildup normal?

Yes. Ink, plasma, and fluid buildup is normal during the first few days. If the fluid becomes excessive, remove the derm shield. You may reapply the derm shield (if within the 24 hour window) or switch to traditional aftercare.

Is the derm shield waterproof?

Yes, however you should avoid water exposure for the first 12-hours after application. Avoid excessive heat/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 at least 2-3 weeks.

Can I work out with the derm shield on?

Light activity is ok. Avoid intense cardio, friction on the tattoo and heavy sweating. If sweat causes the derm shield to lift or fill with moisture, remove it.

How do I remove the derm shield?

Remove the derm shield in a hot shower; the heat and moisture help loosen the adhesive. Gently pull the derm shield along the skin (not upward) to avoid irritation.

How should I care for the tattoo after removal of the derm shield?

If removed early, continue with traditional aftercare. If kept on for 5-7 days, wash daily with gentle soap and apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer.

How to Apply Derm Shield

Only apply/reapply derm shield within 24 hours of getting tattooed. Derm shield must be applied in sanitary conditions, only when the tattoo has not been exposed to contaminants.

Step 1: Wash your hands. Remove any existing wrap.

Step 2: Clean the tattoo with gentle, fragrance-free antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow to fully air dry.

Step 3: Apply the derm:

● Remove the white backing to expose adhesive;
● Apply the adhesive portion to the tattoo from one side, smoothing outward;
● Gently press the derm against your skin until it feels secure.

Step 4: Remove the top clear film marked with the black + symbols

Traditional Tattoo Aftercare

If you choose not to use a derm shield bandage for healing, follow these steps to properly care for your tattoo.

1-4 Hours After Appointment

● Remove any existing wrap or bandaging.
● Wash your tattoo with clean hands, using fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel.
● Do not apply any ointment at this stage.
● Do not re-bandage or wrap your tattoo after removing the initial covering.
●Wear loose-fitting clothing to protect the area from irritation and contaminants.
● It’s normal for your tattoo to leak small amounts of ink or fluid during the first 24 hours.

DAY 1-3 

● Wash your tattoo with clean hands, using fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel.
● Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo or applying ointment.
● Apply a very thin layer of ointment (Aquaphor or Hustle Butter).

• It should not look wet- just slightly hydrated.
• Over-application can suffocate the skin and cause irritation or “bubbling.”

● Wash and apply ointment 2–3 times daily (until tattoo begins to peel), including:

• Morning
• Before bed
• Anytime the tattoo becomes contaminated or dirty
  

Showering

● You may shower starting the morning after receiving your tattoo.
● Avoid direct, high-pressure water on the tattoo.
● Do not soak the tattoo.
● After showering:

• Gently pat dry the tattoo with a clean paper towel.
  

DAY 4-5 (Peeling Stage)

● Your tattoo may begin to flake or peel. Light peeling, flaking, and mild itching are normal.
● Once the tattoo begins peeling, switch from ointment to a fragrance-free lotion (e.g., unscented Lubriderm, CeraVe, etc.).

• Apply lotion lightly whenever the tattoo feels dry or tight.
• Do not over moisturize. Using too much product can slow healing- your tattoo should never feel greasy or suffocated.

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

• This can remove ink and cause patchy healing.
  

DAY 7+ (Surface Healed)

● The tattoo will begin to look more settled with a thin layer of new skin.
● Continue washing and moisturizing as needed.
● Full healing typically takes 4–6 weeks.
● Contact your artist if you notice:

• Excessive redness
• Thick scabbing
• Unusual discoloration
• Signs of infection

WHAT TO AVOID DURING HEALING

● Do not pick or scratch your tattoo
● Do not expose it to direct sunlight or UV light
● Do not soak in water (baths, pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes)
● Do not apply products not approved by your artist
● Do not wear tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo
● Avoid excessive sweating or heavy workouts for the first few days
● Avoid dirty bedding and towels
● Keep pets, dirt, and unclean surfaces away from the area

IMPORTANT

● Different artists may recommend different aftercare methods. These instructions are tailored specifically to our process and should be followed for best results.

When in doubt: keep it clean, keep it dry, and use less product.

Once healed, always use sunscreen on your tattoo to prevent fading. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your artist or the shop.