1. Leave the bandage on
Leave the second skin on for 3 to 4 days. This wrap keeps your tattoo in a sterile environment and protects it from bacteria during its most critical healing phase. If you notice it peeling off early and exposing the tattoo, remove it.
2. Gentle removal
After 3 or 4 days, remove the wrap under the shower with lukewarm water. The heat will help dissolve the medical adhesive. Peel it off slowly and carefully by stretching the plastic downward (parallel to your skin) instead of pulling it straight out, so you don’t hurt the skin.
3. Washing and drying
Wash the tattoo immediately using your clean hands and a fragrance-free, mild or neutral soap. Rinse very well with water to remove any leftover plasma or glue. To dry it, gently pat it with a paper towel or a perfectly clean cloth towel. Never rub or scrub.
4. Moisturize with Bepanthen
Apply a very thin layer of ointment (such as Bepanthen). Do not use too much cream; the skin should just shine slightly, not look white or gooey. Excess moisture can «suffocate» the tattoo, which can cause breakouts or loss of ink.
5. Routine for 15 days
For the next two weeks, repeat this process: wash the tattoo and apply Bepanthen 2 to 3 times a day. Being consistent with this will ensure the skin heals completely without cracking.
6. Things to avoid
During these 15 days, swimming in pools, lakes, beaches, or using saunas is strictly forbidden to avoid serious infections from bacteria in the water. You must also completely protect the tattoo from direct sunlight (do not apply sunscreen until it is 100% healed; for now, cover it with loose clothing).
