Aftercare for Your Tattoos
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and lasts a lifetime. Follow our expert tips to keep your ink vibrant, protect your skin, and avoid complications. Whether you’re using traditional healing methods or Saniderm, we’ve got you covered.
Mastering Tattoo Aftercare
Your Guide to a Beautifully Healed Tattoo
Caring for your new tattoo is essential to preserving its brilliance and longevity. At Stronghold Tattoo Studio, we’re here to guide you through every step of the healing process, making it as smooth and simple as possible. With the right care, your tattoo will not only heal perfectly but continue to be a masterpiece you’re proud to wear.
Essential Aftercare Steps
Carefully take off the bandage 2-4 hours after your tattoo session to allow your skin to breathe.
Gently wash your tattoo with warm water and a mild antibacterial soap. (We recommend using orange, liquid Dial.)
Wash your tattoo with your fingertips and the soap until all the ointment and plasma have been removed.
Softly pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry for 30 minutes.
For the next several weeks, when the tattoo feels very dry and/or tight, apply a thin layer of moisturizing ointment up to 2-3 times a day. (We recommend Hustle Butter, Coconut Oil, or Aquaphor.) Make sure to gently wash your tattoo, with antibacterial soap, in between each application.
Always make sure your hands are clean before touching your tattoo while it is healing.
Extra Care for Overnight Protection
If you choose to sleep with your bandage on overnight, then remove your bandage in the morning and proceed with the first step of the aftercare.
Friendly Reminders for Flawless Healing
Healing Time
Your tattoo will take about 2–4 weeks to heal completely. Be patient and gentle with your skin during this time.
Sun Protection
Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while it’s healing. Once healed, apply SPF 30+ sunblock to protect your tattoo and prevent fading.
No Tanning Beds
Avoid tanning beds while your tattoo is healing. Artificial UV rays can damage your skin and affect the healing process.
Avoid Water Immersion
Don’t submerge your tattoo in water while it’s healing. Stay away from hot tubs, swimming pools, and natural bodies of water to prevent infection.
Hydration and Care
After healing, moisturize your tattoo regularly to keep the colors fresh and your skin nourished.
Watch for Infections
If you notice redness, swelling, tenderness, streaks toward the heart, fever, or foul-smelling drainage, seek medical attention immediately. These are signs of a serious infection.
Saniderm Aftercare
Saniderm Usage & Replacement
- First bandage: Keep it on for 8 to 24 hours (time varies depending on fluid buildup).
- If the bandage adhesion weakens or there’s excessive fluid buildup, replace it with a new one.
- Always replace the first bandage within 24 hours to clean the tattoo and reapply a fresh one.
- Second bandage: Can be worn for up to 6 days.
- If needed, apply a third bandage at the 24-hour mark—this can be worn for up to 5 days.
- Saniderm should not be worn for more than 7 days total.
Saniderm Application
- Cut and trim Saniderm to fit around the tattoo (leave an extra inch around all sides). TIP: Rounding the edges helps it stick better.
- Peel the white paper backing from the sticky side and place it over the tattoo.
- Smooth out the bandage by removing the clear top layer.
- Keep the first bandage on for 3-24 hours depending on fluid buildup.
- Replace within 24 hours, even if some plasma or ink is visible underneath.
Saniderm Removal & Reapplication
- To remove: Gently peel off in the direction of hair growth—preferably in the shower.
- Wash your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap.
- Air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
- If needed, apply a thin layer of petroleum-free moisturizer (Coconut oil works great!) before reapplying.
- Reapply a second bandage and keep it on for 3-6 days (ideally 6).
For more Saniderm info, visit Saniderm’s website.