Tattoo Aftercare
Your new tattoo is an open wound, so keeping it clean and protected while it heals is important. Follow these instructions carefully, alongside any specific advice Snowy gives you during your appointment.
1. Keep the Second Skin on
Leave the Second Skin on for 3 to 5 days, unless it becomes excessively loose, leaks or causes significant irritation. A small amount of blood, plasma and ink underneath is normal. Avoid picking, peeling or lifting the edges. Remove it if it exposes the tattoo.
2. Removing the Second Skin
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Remove the film slowly under warm running water.
- Peel it back over itself.
- Wash gently with lukewarm water and mild fragrance-free soap.
- Do not scrub.
- Pat dry with clean paper towel.
3. After removal
Apply a very thin layer of Palmer’s Cocoa Butter when dry. Moisturise 2 to 3 times a day. Less is more.
4. While your tattoo is healing
For approximately 2 to 4 weeks:
- Do not scratch, pick or peel.
- Avoid swimming, baths, hot tubs and saunas.
- Avoid soaking, direct sunlight and tight clothing.
- Avoid perfume and cosmetics directly on it.
Normal showers are fine, but avoid very hot water and prolonged soaking.
5. Peeling & itching
Redness, tenderness, peeling and itching can be normal. Do not pick skin or scabs. Dull or cloudy colour can be part of healing.
6. Sun protection
Once fully healed, use SPF 30 to 50. UV exposure can fade tattoo ink.
When to get help
Contact your tattoo artist with concerns. Seek medical advice for increasing redness or swelling, worsening pain, heat, pus, red streaks or fever.
Still unsure?
If you have concerns about how your tattoo is healing, get in touch. Everyone heals differently.