Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Intro

Caring for your tattoo properly is the best way to keep it looking clean, crisp, and vibrant as it heals. Please follow these instructions closely and reach out if you have any questions.

Aftercare: Saniderm (Second Skin)

If your tattoo is covered with Saniderm, please keep it on for up to 3 days (unless the seal breaks—see below).

While Saniderm is on:

  • Keep it clean and dry.

  • Do not pick at the edges or “re-seal” it with tape.

After 3 days (or when you remove it):

  1. Remove the Saniderm (best done in the shower with warm water—peel slowly).

  2. Wash the tattoo gently with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.

  3. Pat dry with a clean paper towel (don’t rub).

  4. Moisturize lightly 2 times per day with a thin layer (don’t overdo it).

If the Saniderm seal breaks early:

  • Remove it immediately.

  • Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap.

  • Pat dry.

  • Begin moisturizing lightly 2 times per day.

Aftercare: Plastic Wrap

If your tattoo is covered with plastic wrap:

  1. Keep the wrap on for 1–2 hours.

  2. Remove the wrap and gently wash the tattoo that evening with mild, fragrance-free soap.

  3. Pat dry.

  4. Start moisturizing the next day, lightly 2 times per day.

What’s Normal

You may experience:

  • Mild redness

  • Light swelling

  • Itching

  • Peeling or flaking (like a mild sunburn)

This is all part of the healing process.

What to Avoid (Very Important)

For the first 2 weeks, please avoid:

  • Direct sunlight

  • Tanning beds

  • Swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, or baths

  • Saunas or steam rooms

  • Heavy sweating on the area

  • Picking, scratching, or peeling skin

  • Tight clothing rubbing the area

Let the tattoo flake and peel naturally.

Healing Expectations

Fine-line and black & gray tattoos typically heal within 2–3 weeks, with full healing around 4–6 weeks.

During this time:

  • Keep it clean

  • Keep it moisturized

  • Keep it protected from sun and friction

If you have questions or notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Long-Term Care

To help your tattoo age well:

  • Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) once fully healed

  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure

  • Keep your skin moisturized

Fine-line work especially benefits from good long-term care.

Touch-Up Policy

Touch-ups for my work are free within the first 12 months, unless:

  • Aftercare wasn’t followed

  • The tattoo is in a high-friction area

  • The skin was picked or scratched during healing

  • Sun exposure caused fading

After 12 months, touch-ups may incur a fee.

When to Contact Me

Reach out if you notice:

  • Excessive redness after 48 hours

  • Unusual swelling

  • Leaking or odor

  • Rash or bumps

  • Anything that doesn’t feel normal

I’m always happy to answer questions or check on how your tattoo is healing.

Email: aimee@aimbroarts.com
Instagram: @aimbroarts