Tattoo Aftercare

You left with a card. This is the same thing, in case it ends up in a jacket pocket or the wash.

Two healing methods, depending on how your artist bandaged you. Follow the one that matches the bandage you walked out with. If you are not sure which you are on, text or call us and we will tell you (212) 597-2675.

Ointment Method

  1. Take the bandage off after a few hours, or leave it on overnight so the tattoo does not stick to your clothes and sheets. Once it is off, wash with warm water and fragrance-free liquid soap. Gently pat dry.

  2. Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or A&D, twice a day, for three days. Then switch to an equally thin layer of fragrance-free lotion (Eucerin or Lubriderm).

  3. Keep cleaning and moisturizing twice a day for a couple of weeks, or until it is healed.

  4. Do not pick or scratch it when it flakes, scabs, or itches.

  5. Shower normally. No swimming, no long soaking. Avoid heavy sweating and long stretches of direct sun until it is fully healed.

Second Skin Method

Second Skin is the general name for the clear adhesive bandage. Your artist may use Saniderm, Tegaderm, or another brand. Whichever one you left with, these instructions apply.

  1. Your artist will bandage the tattoo with Second Skin. Leave the bandage on for 3 to 5 days.

  2. Fluid collecting under the bandage is blood and plasma, and it is normal. If the bandage lifts, leaks, or fluid has been squeezed out, the seal is broken. Remove it and switch to the Ointment Method below.

  3. After 3 to 5 days, carefully remove and discard the bandage. It comes off easier in the shower under warm running water.

  4. Once it is off, wash with warm water and fragrance-free liquid soap. Gently pat dry.

  5. Keep cleaning and moisturizing twice a day for a couple of weeks, or until it is healed.

  6. Shower normally. No swimming, no long soaking. Avoid heavy sweating and long stretches of direct sun until it is fully healed.

  7. If you get irritation or redness around the bandage, take it off right away (that can be an adhesive allergy) and get in touch with your artist.

If something does not look right

Text or call your artist at (212) 597-2675, or message us on Instagram @orchardsttattoos. We would much rather hear from you early than find out three weeks later.