tattoo aftercare
by samichhhshop
Every tattoo heals a little differently, but proper aftercare makes all the difference. Follow the steps below based on which bandage you received.
✨ If You’re Wearing
Saniderm / Second Skin
1️⃣ Keep it on for 3–5 days — Leave the film on for at least 24 hours, up to 5 days total. Some plasma or ink buildup underneath is normal. If it fills with too much fluid or starts peeling early, you can remove it sooner.
2️⃣ To remove: Do it in the shower with warm water and gentle soap. Peel it back slowly, stretching the film away from the tattoo, not straight up.
3️⃣ After removal: Wash gently twice a day and apply a very thin layer of coconut oil to moisturize. Keep it clean, hydrated, and avoid friction.
💧 If You’re Wearing a
Traditional Bandage
1️⃣ Remove bandage after 2–4 hours — Wash hands first, then remove gently and clean with warm
water and mild soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
2️⃣ First few days: Wash 2–3 times daily, then apply a light layer of coconut oil each time. Don’t
over-moisturize — let your skin breathe.
🖤 General Healing Tips
(for both methods)
• Do not pick or scratch. Flaking and peeling are normal — let it happen naturally.
• Avoid soaking (no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths) for at least 2 weeks.
• Avoid sun exposure. Keep your tattoo covered or use sunscreen once healed.
• Avoid tight or dirty clothing over the area while it’s healing.
• Stay hydrated and clean — healthy skin heals best!
⏳ Healing Timeline
• Days 1–3: Slight redness, tenderness, and weeping are normal.
• Days 4–10: Flaking, peeling, and mild itching — this means it’s healing!
• Days 10–30: Skin may look slightly shiny or dull until fully settled.
⚠️ Contact me if:
• You notice excessive redness, swelling, rash, or pus.
• The bandage leaks heavily within a few hours of application.
• You’re unsure about what’s normal.
Thank you for trusting me with your tattoo 💕
– samichhh
a little more about samichhh
I’m originally from North Carolina, and before I ever picked up a tattoo machine, I built an entire career in the culinary world.
I’ve cooked in food trucks, helped open restaurants, taught culinary courses, ran community cooking programs, and even worked on recipe development for Whole Foods Global. Creativity, craft, and care for people have always been at the center of everything I do. I just eventually realized my medium needed to change.
Tattooing became the perfect blend of art, connection, and personal expression, and once I stepped into it fully, I never looked back.
I’ve been in the PNW for almost three years now, and it’s become home in a way that feels grounding and expansive. I’m so grateful for every person who trusts me with their skin, their stories, and their energy.




