Getting a tattoo is an exciting journey of self-expression and art, but ensuring its longevity requires proper aftercare. One crucial step in tattoo aftercare is understanding how long to keep your new tattoo wrapped.
From the moment you step out of the tattoo studio, your freshly inked artwork needs to stay shielded from the elements.
This covering, often referred to by names like Second Skin, Saniderm, or Tegaderm, acts like a second layer of skin, like Saran Wrap hugging your tattoo.
But how long should you leave it covered for optimal healing?
(For the sake of this article, Saniderm = Second Skin = Tegaderm.)
If you want more information about new tattoos or you want to get one in Los Angeles, schedule a consultation with us at Mantle in Downtown LA.
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How Long Should You Keep Your Tattoo Wrapped?
After your tattoo session is complete, your artist will likely put a saran wrap-like plastic over your tattoo. This is most often called Second Skin or Saniderm.
This layer acts as a barrier against bacteria and contaminants, which is especially crucial in the first few hours when the skin is most vulnerable.
Keep Your Tattoo Covered for 24-48 Hours
During this period, the wrap protects the area while preventing any friction from clothing or other external irritants.
Ensuring a sterile environment is important because a new tattoo is essentially an open wound. Your body is trying to heal itself while fending off infection. The least you can do is help it by keeping second skin on for at least 24 hours!
…But No More Than 48 Hours
The adhesive’s ability to stay on for long periods makes it a convenient guard, but it’s not completely safe to leave on as long as possible.
You should remove it once the 48-hour period is over to prevent the buildup of moisture underneath. Consider how sweaty your skin would get wrapped in plastic without all that blood and ink seeping out. All of these fluids can contribute to the buildup of moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can create infections.
Always heed the specific advice of your tattoo artist. They can provide tailored recommendations based on their experience and expertise, ensuring the best outcome for your new ink.
When to Remove the Saniderm Cover
The short answer is 1-2 days after you get your tattoo. This primarily depends on how much plasma, blood, and ink are building up underneath your Second Skin.
If you notice that there is a lot of liquid or the film is peeling up by itself already, then feel free to remove it and begin the next steps of aftercare (more on this below). If it is not prematurely peeling up, and there isn’t too much liquid building up underneath, you should leave it on for the full 2 days.
Think of it like this: you want to keep a Band-Aid on a fresh cut to protect it from bacteria for a few days. After that, though, you should remove it so it can properly heal.
What Is Second Skin and Why Is It Used?
Once you have a fresh tattoo, it needs diligent care.
Enter Second Skin, a brand name frequently tossed around in tattoo parlors the same way you might hear “Chapstick” or “Kleenex” used as catch-all terms for similar products.
Second Skin is often used in reference to Saniderm, sometimes Tegaderm, which is the cling wrap that tattoo artists use to cover your fresh ink.
What Makes it So Great
Second Skin is an aftercare product that acts as a barrier to shield your fresh tattoo from potential hazards. Made from a medical-grade polyurethane film, it closely mimics the natural functions of your skin.
What makes it truly remarkable is its breathability; it’s a breathable, sterile barrier that lets oxygen in and allows excess moisture vapor to escape, while protecting your tattoo from bacteria, dirt, and outside water.
This dual action helps your tattoo heal cleanly and naturally.
Your tattoo is essentially an open wound during its initial phase, and covering it with a product like Second Skin provides a protected environment conducive to proper healing.
This not only minimizes the damage caused by accidental bumps and scrapes but also prevents the tattoo ink from being compromised by external contaminants.
The experience of having Second Skin applied can be likened to wrapping your arm—or any other tattooed area—in a snug, breathable plastic film. It’s lightweight, unobtrusive, and you might sometimes forget it’s even there.
Common Mistakes When Using Tattoo Wraps
Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen during the aftercare process.
One common error is leaving the wrap on for too long. It might seem like extra protection can’t hurt, but keeping a tattoo covered for more than 48 hours can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
Remember, fresh tattoos need to breathe to heal properly. Ask yourself, “Would you keep a wound bandaged indefinitely?”—probably not!
Another pitfall is removing the wrap with dirty hands. Cleanliness is crucial.
Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo or the wrap.
The same goes for improper removal techniques; yanking off the wrap abruptly can irritate the skin and even peel away some ink. Instead, gently peel the wrap away while washing it with lukewarm water to aid the process.
Finally, resist the urge to re-wrap! Once you’ve uncovered your tattoo, treat it to the open air while adhering to classic aftercare protocols.
Rewrapping can lead to increased moisture, which is a potential risk for bacterial growth.
What to Do After Removing Second Skin
Once you’ve carefully peeled off that Second Skin, it’s time to shift your focus to taking care of your new tattoo.
Your ink will still be in its early healing stages, so taking the right steps afterward is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and vibrant results.
1: Gently wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Using your fingertips, cleanse away any residual adhesive or buildup. Rinse thoroughly, making sure no soap remains, as leftover soap can dry out your skin.
2: Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel; avoid rubbing as the skin is sensitive and could respond to excessive friction. You may want to ensure this towel is one that you are comfortable with being potentially ruined by ink.
3: Apply a thin layer of moisturizer. Look for a lotion that’s fragrance-free and gentle for healing skin. Moisturizing helps maintain skin elasticity and promotes healing without clogging your pores.
It’s important, above all else, to keep the tattoo clean and moisturized, but refrain from over-saturating it. Your skin still needs to breathe during this period. Continue following your artist’s aftercare instructions, which might suggest specific ointments or routines to maximize healing potential.
In the days following, observe your tattoo closely. Redness, soreness, and light scabbing can be normal, but remain vigilant for signs of infection, such as excessive swelling, unusual discharge, or persistent irritation. Should you notice anything worrying, don’t hesitate to consult your artist or a medical professional.
By giving your tattoo the attention it deserves after removing Second Skin, you’ll support its journey to looking as striking as you envisioned.
Want More Tattoo Inspiration and Aftercare Tips?
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If you’d like to schedule a consultation, we can go over your tattoo ideas and give recommendations for the best ways to care for your new ink, big or small.
