SANIDERM
DAY 1
Cut and trim Saniderm to fit around the tattoo – include an extra inch around all sides. TIP: Cutting the edges of the bandage to be round will help it adhere better and feel more comfortable.
Peel the white paper wrapping from the sticky side first and place gently over the tattoo.
Once the adhesive side of the bandage is in place, remove the see-through second layer from the top side and smooth bandage over the tattoo.
Keep the first applied bandage on for anywhere from 3-24 hours, depending on how much the wound is weeping. Replace within 24 hours. It’s fine if there is some plasma/blood/lymph fluid buildup under the bandage during this period, but don’t leave it longer than 24 hours.
DAY 2
To remove Saniderm, find an edge of the bandage and pull it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. The shower is the ideal place to remove Saniderm. Running water will help loosen the adhesive and relax the skin, making the removal much more comfortable. Dry removal of Saniderm may cause discomfort and added trauma to the skin.
Discard the used bandage and wash the tattoo with a mild soap, preferably fragrance-free.
Allow the tattoo to air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
If desired, apply a thin layer of aftercare product to your tattoo. If you have naturally oily skin or live in a high humidity climate, feel free to skip this step. Otherwise, use a thin layer of petroleum-free moisturizer to help the tattoo retain moisture and itch less. Sanibalm is the perfect remedy for dry skin! If you plan on applying another bandage, apply the product to the tattoo only and avoid getting it on the surrounding skin. Saniderm does not adhere well to wet/moist skin.
Apply a second bandage by following the application steps listed above.
Keep this second bandage on for 3-6 days – the full six days being ideal. If the skin appears irritated, there is fluid buildup, or the bandage is coming off, it’s okay to remove the bandage sooner rather than later.
Do not reapply any more bandages after the scabbing/flaking phase of tattoo healing has begun. If you find yourself bandage-less during this phase, make sure you’re keeping the area thoroughly moisturized. For a tattoo moisturizer, we strongly recommend Sanibalm.
If there is adhesive residue leftover on the skin, or the adhesive is not loosening enough with water, coconut oil and baby oil are helpful for removal.
OINTMENT AFTERCARE
After leaving the shop, leave the bandage on for 1-3 hours. The purpose of the bandage is to protect your tattoo until you can get home to clean it.
Before touching your tattoo, wash your hands with antibacterial soap (we recommend Dial antibacterial soap). Once your hands are clean then wash your tattoo with soap and warm water. Be sure to wash any residue/plasma from the area.
after washing your tattoo, allow it to air dry for 5-10 minutes.
Apply a thin layer of ointment to your tattoo (we recommend any of the following: Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, Redemption, Tattoo Lovers Care, Crybaby or Eucerin). Do not reapply ointment without first cleaning your tattoo.
Wash your tattoo 3-5 times a day (and anytime your tattoo feels to dry or irritated). Repeat steps 2 through 4 until your tattoo starts peeling.
Once your tattoo starts peeling, you can switch to applying white unscented lotion (Curel, Lubriderm, Eucerin). Apply as needed.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Do not pick, scratch, or soak your tattoo.
Avoid activities that can affect the healing process (swimming, tanning, or workouts that cause excessive sweating).
tattoos are open wounds, treat them that way.
A majority of infections occur outside of the tattoo shop. It occurs when the tattoo is exposed to bacteria, unsanitary environments and unclean surfaces. To avoid potential infection, keep your tattoo clean and be mindful of your environment.
If you have pets, keep them away from your tattoo and off of any shared surfaces (for example bed, towel, pillows you use etc.). Pets are rad but not ideal to have near your new tattoo.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at (816)832-8799.