Tegaderm holds in the body’s natural moisture and healing enzymes, allowing the body to heal itself in the most efficient manner possible. After skin has been injured, healing elements are produced to help break down dead tissue and rebuild new tissue.
Under normal circumstances, these healing elements dry up and evaporate which reduces their effectiveness. When this happens, longer healing times are required and scabbing and scarring can occur. Tegaderm locks in these healing elements and allows the skin to continue to function as normal because the bandage is permeable to oxygen and water vapor (breathable).
In addition, Tegaderm protects against dirt and germs while eliminating friction and other irritations that might further interfere with the healing process.
You will leave your Tegaderm on for 3-5 days, depending on your artist’s recommendation. Tegaderm is great for tattoos because it is low-maintenance and can reduce healing time. It is water-resistant, so you can shower with it on, but try to keep it out of the water as much as possible and keep soaps/body products away from it.
It is normal to see a small amount of plasma tinted black/brown by the ink produced under your bandage. If you develop a large fluid filled pocket, the fluid begins to leak out of the bandage or a foreign substance is trapped beneath it; carefully remove the bandage, cleanse your tattoo, and begin your standard tattoo aftercare.
Be sure to keep your new tattoo out of direct sunlight and dirty environments(this includes the beach). Do not submerge your new tattoo underwater until it is fully healed (2-3 weeks). Completely avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, oceans, and lakes. Since Tegaderm is slightly absorbent, when your bandage is submerged it will absorb small amounts of the fluid it is surrounded by.
You will want to carefully and slowly remove the Tegaderm in the shower. Be sure to gently roll or pull it away from your skin; DO NOT rip it off like a Band-Aid.
After you have removed the Tegaderm and cleaned your new tattoo, it should be mostly healed. The tattoo will begin to peel within the next couple of days. You will want to cleanse your tattoo 1-2 times a day and keep it moisturized with an unscented lotion (like Lubriderm Daily Moisture) or a tattoo aftercare product (like Redemption, Griffin, or Hustle Butter) until it is fully healed. Once healed, be sure to always apply SPF 50 while in the sun to prevent fading.
STANDARD TATTOO AFTERCARE:
Carefully remove the bandage covering 2-4 hours after getting your tattoo.
After the bandage is removed, gently cleanse your new tattoo with warm water and a mild unscented antibacterial soap (we recommend Dial Clear). Do not scrub with a wash towel or luffa. Your tattoo will produce a small amount of fluid at first, which is normal. Gently cleanse the tattoo with your clean fingertips until it no longer feels slippery. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow the tattoo to air dry before applying a thin layer of ointment for the first 2-3 days. You will repeat this process 2-3 times a day.
Be sure to remain persistent in your aftercare, especially during the first few days. Keep in mind that excessive washing and moisturizing may cause irritation and an increased risk of infection.
Your tattoo will begin the peeling stage between days 3-7. The peeling will flake like a sunburn. Do not pick or scratch at your tattoo. You will want to cleanse your tattoo 1-2 times a day with an unscented antibacterial soap (Like Dial Clear or Dial Gold) and keep it moisturized with an unscented lotion (like Lubriderm Daily Moisture) or a tattoo aftercare product (like Redemption, Griffin, or Hustle Butter) until it is fully healed. Once healed, be sure to always apply SPF 50 while in the sun to prevent fading.
Be sure to keep your new tattoo out of direct sunlight and dirty environments(This includes the beach). Do not submerge your new tattoo underwater until it is fully healed (2-3 weeks). Completely avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, oceans, and lakes.