Second Skin wrap instructions.

Second Skin was developed to prevent infections forming on wounds to the epidermis - or top layer- of your skin. This wrap remains on your skin for 5 to 7 days, acting as a barrier between your body and outside contaminants as this first layer of skin repairs itself.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

  • Your wrap should remain on your tattoo for 5-7 days from your appointment date. Your tattoo is the most vulnerable to contracting an infection during it’s first week, so this wrap should greatly reduce the risk of infection.

  • Day 1 - Day 3. You will notice a pooling of ink underneath your wrap, especially if you have had color work done. The tattoo will look like it’s leaking, but this is completely normal. Underneath the wrap, your tattoo is surfacing blood and plasma to heal itself, and it’s simply trapped underneath the wrap, which is acting as a barrier to protect it from outside infections.

    • Tip: Avoid wearing light-colored clothing or sleeping directly on light-colored sheets. You may experience some of the ink leaking from the edges of the wrap. To avoid the mess, secure a couple paper towel sheets around the bottom of your wrap to absorb any leaks. Reapply new paper towels at least 2-3 times daily.

  • Day 4 - Day 7. At this point, the wrap may feel uncomfortable as your tattoo feels itchy underneath. Some of the edges may be lifting, but this is ok as long as it is not exposing air directly over your tattoo. You’ll notice there’s a texture on the wrap as well. This is also normal, but please do your best to keep it on until at least Day 5 if there are no other issues.

  • Once it’s time, take off your wrap in the shower slowly under running lukewarm water. While doing so, use the Dial Gold antibacterial soap to wash your tattoo as you gently guide the wrap off. Don’t tear it off quickly, or you may pull out pigment and irritate your skin. Once the wrap is off, follow the aftercare routine.

WHAT TO AVOID:

  • Do not submerge your tattoo under water, this will cause the wrap to peel off. While showering, just face the side of your body that has the wrap away from the running water.

  • Do not puncture holes or pop the little air pockets on your wrap. If this happens, you will be exposing your tattoo to outside air and will need to take the wrap off to prevent infection. If the liquid under your wrap suddenly dries, and is accompanied by an odd scent and more pain than just discomfort/itchiness, immediately take your wrap off and wash it well. This is a sign of outside exposure underneath your wrap.