
AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS
How to Care for Your New Tattoo
Hypafix/Second Skin speeds up the healing process while protecting the fragile skin from damage and contamination.
At the end of your session, I will apply the clear waterproof bandage to the surface of your tattoo.
Try to keep this bandage on for a minimum of 5 days, but we suggest 7 days if you can manage it.
Over the next 72 hours your tattoo will weep fluid. This is your body’s natural defence to fight infection. As it is a clear bandage you will see this fluid. It is important not to break the seal of the bandage. Most of this fluid will be reabsorbed by your body after 3 days, but expect to see pigment and plasma settled on your skin, obstructing your view of the piece underneath.
Resume all typical activities after 24 hours, try not to pick at the edges of the plastic or towel dry it too vigorously. If you notice fluid leaking out, or the edges rolling; clean and dry the area around the leak and apply a piece of medical tape to the opening, careful not to release any more fluid.
While wearing this bandage you should avoid direct sun exposure, activities that induce excessive perspiration including; saunas, swimming in chlorine pools, or soaking in warm water any longer than 15 minutes at a time.
After 5-7 days you may remove the bandage. Grab an edge of the bandage and pull in a direction horizontal to your skin to realese it slowly. You can do this in the shower under warm water for a more comfortable experience.
Wash your tattoo immediately after removal as it is imperative to clean away any excess pigment built up on the skin.
Use your fingers and warm water with a little Dove or Oil of Olay bar soap, lathered between your hands and letting the bubbles run over the surface of that tattoo from your skin above the area. Gently rub the area with clean hands before rinsing thoroughly.
If you do not remove the build up completely, it may result in scabs forming over the tattoo that can potentially damage your piece, so wash it well.
After washing you may apply a light, unscented, unmedicated moisturizer.
Regular Aveeno, Lubriderm or Curel work great.
You may notice that the skin is quite sensitive at this time, the discomfort will subside in 12 - 24 hours.
Wash and dry your tattoo morning and night for the next week, only applying moisturizer when it has a tight, dry sensation and only after washing. In order to prevent the fragile surface layer of the skin from splitting. Moisturize your clean hands and gently pat your tattoo until the skin is supple, but not shiny.
You may resume normal activities 2 weeks after removing the bandage (including swimming, hot yoga, etc.)
Remember, sunscreen protects the longevity of your piece and should be used regularly following the completion of your healing process.
Should you have any questions, concerns or you feel your bandage has been compromised, please contact the shop immediately to receive instructions on how to proceed.
My job isn’t complete until your tattoo is healed, never hesitate to let us know if you’re having trouble.
Happy healing!
Cassie Crimson
Lyle St Tattoo Co
66 Lyle St, Darthmouth NS
(902) 469-0861