Your tattoo is more than just ink — it’s art, a memory, and a commitment. Taking care of it properly is the key to keeping it bold and beautiful for years to come.
Whether you leave with second skin or clingfilm, here’s everything you need to know about healing your new tattoo.
🩹 Step 1: Leaving the Studio
After your session, we’ll apply one of the following:
🔸 Second Skin – a breathable adhesive film (like Dermalize or Saniderm)
🔸 Clingfilm Wrap – traditional plastic wrap for short-term coverage
Your artist will let you know which method is best for your tattoo.
✅ Option 1: Second Skin Aftercare
🕒 Keep the film on for 3–5 days, unless advised otherwise.
💧 It’s waterproof, so you can shower — but avoid soaking, swimming, or hot tubs.
🧼 To remove it, peel slowly under warm water (ideally in the shower).
🧴 Gently wash your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry.
💧 Apply a light layer of tattoo-friendly moisturiser 2–3 times a day.
Second skin makes aftercare easier, cleaner, and more comfortable.
✅ Option 2: Clingfilm Aftercare
🕒 Remove the wrap after 2–4 hours.
🧼 Wash gently with warm water and fragrance-free soap.
🧻 Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel (don’t rub!).
💧 Moisturise 2–3 times daily with fragrance-free tattoo balm or lotion.
🛌 You may re-wrap your tattoo overnight for the first night or two, especially if advised by your artist.
Keep it clean, keep it dry, and let your skin breathe.
🚫 Avoid While Healing:
- 🚫 Swimming, baths, hot tubs, or saunas (at least 2 weeks)
- 🚫 Excessive sweating or intense workouts (first few days)
- 🚫 Sun exposure or tanning
- 🚫 Scratching, peeling, or picking at scabs
- 🚫 Re-wrapping unless told to do so by your artist
🔍 What’s Normal?
✔ Light redness or tenderness
✔ Mild peeling or flaking
✔ Itching after a few days
🚨 If you experience excessive swelling, pus, or intense pain, consult a healthcare professional.
💬 Need Help?
If you have any questions about your healing process, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
📍 Black Lotus Tattoo Studio Kettering
📞 Phone: 01536 808387
📧 Email: contact@blacklotustattoo.co.uk
Thank you for trusting us with your tattoo — we can’t wait to see it healed and looking amazing!