Tattoo Aftercare (Saniderm)

You don’t have to do anything to the tattoo while the Saniderm is still on. Getting it wet in the shower is ok, but don’t scrub at it and don’t soak it for too long (no baths, swimming, or hot tubs).

  • Keep the Saniderm on for minimum 24 hours. If it’s not giving you any trouble, I find that leaving it on for 2-3 days is ideal for most clients. I recommend removing it in the shower with the water running over it. This is not a Band aid situation, do not rip it off quick! Peel it down over itself SLOWLY, do not pull it straight out from the skin.

  • If it starts peeling up from the edges so much that it becomes really annoying, or if the tattoo is exposed, go ahead and remove it. If you start getting some redness or irritation around the edges of the Saniderm, remove it as soon as you notice and wash the area.

  • You might notice bubbles of liquid develop under the Saniderm - this is just a bit of blood and plasma, and it’s totally normal. It might look like the edges of your tattoo are a little fuzzy, this is normal as well.

  • Some tattooers like to recommend changing the Saniderm after the first 24 hours, and putting a new piece on for the next few days. I find that this step is unnecessary most of the time for smaller tattoos, and the removal and placing of new Saniderm can sometimes cause skin irritation. This step should be evaluated on a case by case basis depending on the size of your tattoo.

    When the Saniderm comes off for good, resume regular aftercare for the rest of the healing process:

  • When the skin starts to feel dry or itchy, apply an unscented,  non petroleum based moisturizer 2 or 3 times a day. Use a very thin layer, just enough to moisturize the skin.

  • Your tattoo will be flaky, dry, itchy, and might form some scabs while it heals. This is normal. Do not pick or scratch at it. Depending on how long you left the Saniderm on, your tattoo may skip the scabby/flaky stage.

  • No soaking in water (no baths/swimming - showering is ok) and no direct sun exposure for about 3-4 weeks.  If you have been offered a touch up, wait 4-6 weeks for the area to be healed before getting it tattooed again.

  • Always make sure your hands are clean when touching your new tattoo.

  • Do not use any scented perfumes, oils, cologne, deodorant, etc on the tattooed area until it’s well healed. You’ll know your tattoo is fully healed when the skin feels smooth and is no longer dry or shiny (usually 4-6 weeks for most people).

Product recommendations:

Soap:

  • I prefer unscented mild Dr. Bronner’s (in the light blue bottle), you can get it at Target and most drug stores.

  • Any fragrance and dye free soap will also work. Choose a liquid soap in a bottle, instead of a bar of soap - this will ensure cleanliness over multiple uses.

Moisturizer:

  • Any plain, unscented, dye free, and non-petroleum based moisturizer should work. Brands like Lubriderm, Eucerin, Aveeno, Cetaphil and Cerave have unscented/sensitive skin versions available, and can easily be found at most stores that have a skin care/hygiene section.

  • If you prefer a more natural/vegan option, I have personally had luck using shea and cocoa butter based products such as Hustle Butter or Booda Organics (both are available on Amazon or through their websites), and pure jojoba oil.

  • Try to pick a lotion in a squeezy tube, or a bottle with a pump. If you end up with a tub of moisturizer, make extra sure to thoroughly wash your hands before sticking your fingers in there.

  • A&D, vaseline, petroleum jelly and other similar petroleum products are not recommended.

  • Aquaphor is commonly recommended by other tattooers.  I personally do not think Aquaphor is necessary, because I feel that it’s too easy to overdo it, so if you choose to use it please do so VERY sparingly. Aquaphor can be a bit heavy on the skin, so if too much is applied or if it’s used for an extended period of time it can clog the pores which could impact the healing process.