Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but taking care of it afterward is just as important as the tattoo itself. One popular method for healing a tattoo is using a “second skin,” which is a protective film placed over the fresh tattoo. This film helps keep the tattoo clean, reduces scabbing, and encourages faster healing. However, after the second skin is removed, it’s essential to continue proper care to ensure your tattoo heals well and looks great for years to come. In this article, we will go over the steps for caring for your tattoo after second skin removal, providing detailed advice and tips to keep your skin healthy and your tattoo vibrant.
Understanding the Importance of Tattoo Aftercare
When you get a tattoo, your skin undergoes a process of healing that can take time. Proper aftercare is crucial to avoid infections, scarring, and fading. The second skin is a temporary solution to protect the tattoo during the early stages of healing. Once you remove the second skin, you will need to switch to a more traditional aftercare routine.
Proper tattoo care helps the tattoo settle into the skin, reducing the chances of infection or irritation. It also ensures that the colors stay vibrant and the lines remain crisp, helping the artwork look fresh for longer.
Step-by-step tutorial on how to care for your skin after getting a tattoo
Step 1: Remove the Second Skin Properly
The first step in caring for your tattoo after the second skin is removing it. You should follow the advice given by your tattoo artist on when and how to remove the second skin. Typically, it is recommended to keep the second skin on for at least 24 hours, but not longer than 72 hours, depending on the artist’s advice.
When removing the second skin:
Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.
Gently peel the second skin off. Don’t pull or tug at it too harshly.
If the second skin is sticking, wet it with lukewarm water to make removal easier.
Avoid reapplying second skin unless advised by your tattoo artist.
Step 2: Clean Your Tattoo Gently
Once you remove the second skin, the tattoo will need to be cleaned. This step is vital to remove any remaining ointment, blood, or plasma.
Use a mild, unscented soap: Choose a gentle, fragrance-free soap to avoid irritating your tattoo.
Wash with lukewarm water: Use lukewarm water to rinse the tattoo. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the healing skin.
Clean with your hands: Never use rough towels, sponges, or loofahs to clean your tattoo. Gently use your hands to wash the area.
After cleaning, pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or a soft towel. Avoid rubbing the tattoo, as it could cause irritation.
Step 3: Apply a Moisturizer or Ointment
Once your tattoo is clean and dry, it’s important to apply a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.
Use a tattoo-specific aftercare ointment: Many tattoo artists recommend using a tattoo-specific ointment, such as Aquaphor or a similar product. These ointments are designed to protect the tattoo and promote healing.
Apply a thin layer: Don’t overapply the ointment. A thin layer will keep the tattoo moisturized without suffocating the skin.
Avoid petroleum jelly: Petroleum jelly can clog pores and may cause the tattoo to heal improperly. Stick to products specifically designed for tattoo aftercare.
You may also use fragrance-free lotions once the tattoo starts to scab and heal.
Step 4: Avoid Scratching or Picking
As your tattoo heals, it will start to itch and may form scabs. It’s crucial not to scratch or pick at your tattoo. Scratching can lead to infection, scarring, and can even pull the ink out of your skin.
Resist the urge to scratch: Instead, gently tap the area or use a cold compress to soothe itching.
Let scabs fall off naturally: As your skin heals, scabs will form and eventually fall off. Let them do so on their own; don’t pick or peel them.
Step 5: Keep the Tattoo Protected
For the first few weeks after removing the second skin, it’s important to protect your tattoo from external elements such as the sun, dirt, and bacteria.
Avoid direct sunlight: The UV rays from the sun can fade your tattoo quickly. For the first few months, avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight. After healing, use sunscreen to protect it.
Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the tattoo and irritate the skin. Choose loose, breathable clothing to avoid friction on the tattooed area.
Avoid swimming in pools or oceans: For the first few weeks, don’t submerge your tattoo in water. Pools, oceans, and hot tubs can introduce bacteria that may lead to infection.
Avoid sweaty activities: Intense physical activity that causes excessive sweating may irritate the tattoo. Try to limit activities that may cause sweating during the first few weeks of healing.
Step 6: Continue the Aftercare Routine
After the first few days of tattoo care, you should continue moisturizing and keeping the tattoo clean.
Clean the tattoo twice a day: For the first couple of weeks, continue cleaning the tattoo twice a day with mild soap and water. This will help keep the area free of bacteria and prevent infection.
Moisturize regularly: Use a fragrance-free, gentle lotion or tattoo-specific aftercare cream. Continue moisturizing until the tattoo has fully healed.
Watch for signs of infection: If the tattoo becomes red, swollen, or starts to ooze pus, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional immediately. These could be signs of an infection.
Step 7: Be Patient
Healing a tattoo takes time. The process usually takes between 2-4 weeks for the outer skin to heal. However, it may take a few months for the tattoo to fully heal beneath the surface. Be patient and follow your aftercare routine consistently. Over time, you will see the tattoo transform as it heals and settles into your skin.
Common Tattoo Aftercare Mistakes to Avoid
While caring for your tattoo, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:
Over-moisturizing: While it’s important to keep the tattoo hydrated, too much ointment can clog pores and cause irritation. Apply a thin layer and only when needed.
Exposing the tattoo to sunlight too soon: Sun exposure can cause the ink to fade and slow down the healing process. Keep your tattoo covered and protected from the sun.
Using harsh products: Avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, or strong chemicals, as they can irritate the skin and interfere with the healing process.
Neglecting the tattoo: Tattoo aftercare requires attention and care. Neglecting it can result in infections, fading, or uneven healing.
How to Know If Your Tattoo Is Healing Well
A well-healed tattoo will:
Have no signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or pus).
Start to fade in color and become slightly less vibrant (this is normal).
Have smooth, even skin without large scabs or raised areas.
If you notice any unusual symptoms, like excessive redness, heat, or discomfort, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Caring for your tattoo after the second skin is an essential step in ensuring its long-term beauty and vibrancy. By following the right aftercare routine, such as cleaning, moisturizing, protecting from the sun, and avoiding irritation, your tattoo will heal properly and remain as stunning as the day it was done. Remember, tattoos are an investment, and proper aftercare will ensure that they look great for years to come. Patience and consistency are key in the healing process—your tattoo will thank you for it.