Welcome to the tattoo aftercare page

A fresh tattoo is a wound and needs to be treated as such to avoid complications like infections and the forming of scar tissue. When leaving the tattoo studio, your fresh tattoo should be covered in plastic to prevent bacteria from getting into the skin and to protect your fresh artwork from rubbing onto your clothing.

One of the following two types of plastic will be used:

1. Second Skin

2. Classic Plastic Film

1. Second Skin (Sticker)

Second Skin is a medical-grade, transparent, adhesive barrier that protects new tattoos while they are healing. it's breathable and waterproof, Second Skin can be left on for up to five days. It is possible that the patch comes off by itself. If not, remove after three to five days (whichever is comfortable for you)

To remove, first wash your hands with water and soap. Gently remove the sticker from your skin.
Then gently wash the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap and pat your skin dry with a soft cloth.
There is no need to re-cover the tattoo.
Apply a small amount of after care ointment and gently rub it. You don't want to layer it on. (with Bepanthen ointment: 1 drop for a palm size tattoo is enough)
For the next two weeks: Wash your tattoo at least once a day and use the ointment at least three times a day.
Check the extra guidelines.

In the unlikely event that the Second Skin comes off in the first hours, please check the ‘classic plastic film’ section below.

2. Classic Plastic Film

Sometimes, when a tattoo is too big or Second Skin is too difficult to apply, classic plastic film is used. I recommend to cover the tattoo the first 24 hours plus the second night.

The morning after getting the tattoo: remove the plastic film, gently wash the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap and pat your skin dry with a soft cloth. re-cover with a fresh patch of plastic film.
Repeat in the afternoon and before you go to bed.
The first 24 hours usually there is no need to use ointment, but you can if the skin feels dry.
The second morning after getting the tattoo, remove the plastic film, gently wash the tattoo and leave open.
Apply a small amount of after care ointment and gently rub it in so no layer remains on top of the skin. (with Bepanthen ointment: 1 drop for a palm size tattoo is enough)
For the next two weeks: Wash your tattoo at least once a day and use the ointment at least three times a day.
Check the extra guidelines.

For an optimal tattoo aftercare also consider following guidelines:

Bepanthen Tattoo aftercare ointment

Avoid taking a bath, swimming, suntanning and intens direct sunlight for at least two weeks.
During the healing, wear lightweight clothing and avoid fabrics that pill, such as wool.
Use extra sunscreen for the first full year. Your tattoo might look healed after two or three weeks, it can take several months for it to fully settle in your skin.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial to prevent infections. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your fresh tattoo, avoid touching it with dirty hands, and avoid exposing your tattoo to unclean environments.
Light exercising is possible while your tattoo is healing, but don’t overdo it. Sweat might build up underneath the Second Skin. Pay extra care in avoiding friction on your tattoo.
Flacking of the top skin layer will probably occur during the healing process. This is normal, do not pick the skin.
Itchiness may occur during the healing process. Do not scratch!
The final outcome of a tattoo, including color retention, fading, and overall appearance, may vary from person to person. Factors such as skin type, exposure to sunlight, and aftercare practices can influence the longevity and quality of a tattoo.

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice. Each person's skin type, health condition, and lifestyle may affect the healing process of a tattoo, so every individual's healing process may vary. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or your tattoo artist for personalized aftercare instructions. If you have a history of skin conditions or allergies, take extra precautions and consider consulting with a dermatologist before getting a tattoo.