Healing With
Recovery Derm
Healing Without
Recovery Derm
Contact If
You Experience
Recovery Derm AftercareIf your artist applied Recovery Derm (second skin bandage), follow these instructions:
First 24 Hours* It is normal for fluid, blood, and ink to collect under the bandage.* Do not remove the bandage unless it becomes compromised, leaks excessively, or causes irritation.
Avoid excessive sweating, swimming, hot tubs, and soaking the tattoo.
Leave the Recovery Derm in place for 5–7 days unless otherwise instructed by your artist.
Shower normally, but avoid direct high-pressure water on the bandage.
Do not pick at the edges or puncture the bandage.
After 5-7 days, Remove the bandage under warm running water.
Pull the bandage slowly, stretching it parallel to the skin rather than pulling straight up.
Wash the tattoo with Dial Gold non-scented pump soap.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a very very thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer as needed if tattoo is very dry.
Avoid scratching, picking, or peeling any flaking skin.
*Do Not* Scratch, pick, or peel the tattoo.* Soak the tattoo in baths, pools, lakes, hot tubs, or oceans.* Expose the tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds.* Wear tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo.* Allow pets to lick or touch the healing tattoo.
Continue cleaning and moisturizing until healing is complete.
If your tattoo was not covered with Recovery Derm, follow these instructions:
First Day* Leave the initial bandage on for the amount of time recommended by your artist (typically 1 hour).
Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
Gently wash the tattoo with Dial Gold fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Days 1–14* Wash the tattoo 2–3 times daily.
For the first 3 days apply a very very thin layer of aquaphor after washing.
The tattoo should not look greasy or suffocated.
Continue moisturizing whenever the tattoo feels dry or tight.
What to Expect* Mild redness, tenderness, and swelling are normal during the first few days.
Light flaking and peeling are normal during healing.
Itching is common as the tattoo heals.*
Some ink residue during washing is normal.
Do Not* Scratch, pick, or peel the tattoo.* Soak the tattoo in baths, pools, lakes, hot tubs, or oceans.* Expose the tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds.* Wear tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo.* Allow pets to lick or touch the healing tattoo.
When to Contact Your Artist or a Medical Professional
Contact us if you experience:
Excessive redness that continues spreading.
Significant swelling after the first few days.
Thick yellow or green discharge.* Severe pain that worsens rather than improves.
Fever or signs of infection.* Allergic reactions such as severe itching, rash, or hives.
Long Term Care
A well-healed tattoo will look better for years with proper maintenance. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) whenever the tattoo is exposed to the sun. Keep your skin moisturized. Stay hydrated and maintain healthy skin habits.Taking care of your tattoo during healing is just as important as the tattoo itself. Proper aftercare helps ensure the best color retention, crisp lines, and overall longevity of your artwork.Questions during healing? Contact Cardinal Ink and we’re happy to help.