Tattoo Aftercare

Initial Care

First Week Care

• Use the ointment for one week. Apply only a thin amount of ointment 1-2 times a day and always wash your tattoo with non-scented antibacterial soap and water before applying a new layer.
• Also use clean bed linens and bath towels throughout the healing period.
• After one week of using the ointment, switch to non-scented lotion. Alcohol is used to add scents in lotion, and that will cause your ink to dry up and scab.

Healing Process

• Yes, you can (and should!) shower with a new tattoo. It's OK to get your tattoo wet – just don't soak it or scrub it. Submerging your tattoo in a hot bath or hot tub can cause serious damage, so avoid those for 2-3 weeks. Showering is perfectly fine as long as you don't saturate your tattoo. Swimming in a pool, fresh water or salt water should be avoided for at least 2-3 weeks.
• In the process of your new tattoo healing, it will become very itchy. DON'T SCRATCH OR PICK AT YOUR TATTOO. It will peel, but let dead skin fall off on its own. At this stage your tattoo is almost healed, and now is not time to ruin it!

Disclaimers

• Tanning will NOT be good on the site of the tattoo during the healing phase, and it is suggested to use sunscreen over bright tattoos after 2 weeks of being healed to preserve their color. DO NOT apply sunscreen to a healing tattoo instead keep it loosely covered up from the sun. Going to the gym is OK, but protect your tattoo from the gym equipment and germs.

Second Skin Instructions

Removal

• Peel up an edge or corner of SecondSkin™. If this proves difficult, you can attach medical tape to the corner of the film to help lift it.
• Slowly pull the film off. Do not pull it straight up away from the skin. Instead, pull the film back and across the skin while holding your skin taut.

Additional Information

• In the first 24 hours, there may be a build up of plasma under the SecondSkin™. This is completely normal. If so, remove the bandage and reapply a new clean one. Once you remove our SecondSkin™ bandage, apply a new bandage of second skin and keep on for 4-5days. Once the second wrap is removed keep your tattoo clean and start using aftercare cream as needed.
• You may experience some redness around the tattoo where SecondSkin™ was applied to the un-tattooed skin. This is also completely normal and may occur with any type of medical adhesive. If you do develop an adverse reaction on the tattoo, discontinue use immediately.
• If the SecondSkin™ pops or leaks remove the SecondSkin™ and clean the tattoo and apply new SecondSkin™ to tattoo.

Long-Term Tattoo Aftercare

Crimson Red Tattoos – Liz Marie

Your tattoo is an investment — in your skin, your story, and in lasting artwork. While the initial healing process is crucial, long-term care plays a huge role in keeping your tattoo bold, crisp, and vibrant for years to come.

Here's how to protect and preserve your tattoo for the long haul:

• Keep It Moisturized
  Even after your tattoo is fully healed, keeping your skin hydrated helps maintain color and detail. Use a fragrance-free lotion or tattoo-specific moisturizer regularly to keep the area soft and healthy.
• Protect It from the Sun
  Sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to fade a tattoo. Always apply a high-SPF (30 or higher) broad-spectrum sunscreen over your tattoo when it's exposed — even years after healing. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, reapply sunscreen often and consider covering your tattoo with clothing when possible.
• Stay Hydrated & Healthy
  Your skin is your largest organ — staying hydrated and maintaining good overall health helps your skin (and your tattoo) stay strong, vibrant, and clear.
• Avoid Abrasive Products
  Don't use exfoliants, scrubs, or harsh chemicals directly on your tattoo. These can break down the ink and cause premature fading over time.
• Maintain Your Skin
  As your skin naturally ages, your tattoo will too. Using gentle skincare, staying moisturized, and protecting your skin from damage can help your tattoo age more gracefully.
• Schedule Touch-Ups When Needed
  If you notice fading, blurring, or spots that need a refresh, I offer free touch-ups for life (as long as aftercare instructions were properly followed). Just reach out to schedule and we'll bring your ink back to life.
• Watch for Changes
  Keep an eye on your tattoo over time. If you ever notice significant changes in the skin around your tattoo (lumps, discoloration, or irritation), consult with a medical professional.

Respect the work. Respect your skin.

Long-term tattoo care is simple, but essential. If you ever have questions about keeping your tattoo looking fresh, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you wear your ink proudly — for life.