Remove the Derm Shield in a warm shower. The warmth will loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove. Find an edge of the Derm Shield and slowly pull it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. Pulling upward on the Derm Shield can be painful, so we don’t recommend it. If you’re having trouble removing the Derm Shield, use Antimicrobial Soap to loosen the bandage.

Clean your tattoo with Antimicrobial Soap(optional) and/or warm water. Do not use bar soap, loofahs, rags or sponges as they harbor bacteria. Wash using your palm, gently removing any slimy residue. Rinse with cold water and pat dry with a clean paper towel, then allow it to air-dry for 10 minutes.

Q: What’s the difference between Antimicrobial and Antibacterial?
A: Antimicrobial is an additional line of defense beyond antibacterial. An antimicrobial substance is one that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms, fungi or protozoans as well as bacteria.

The next stage of after care will depend on if your tattoo has reached the peeling stage or not.

If it has not peeled yet. Massage a very small amount of Tattoo Aftercare or Lubriderm lotion into the skin to keep the tattoo slightly moist, but not smothered. Do this every four to six hours (washing before each application). Use just enough to give the tattoo a slightly satin shine, and blot with a clean paper towel. Your skin will take in all it needs, so do not leave excessive ointment on the skin. Ensure that extra moisture doesn’t get trapped under the ointment by blotting and air-drying after every washing. Do not use petroleum jelly or products containing petroleum (e.g. Vaseline, Aquaphor, etc.).

Your tattoo will start to peel, similar to a sunburn. Do not pick or scratch at the cracked and flaking skin.

At this point, do not apply any more ointment. The area will become dry and itchy. Redemption lotion can now be used three to four times daily, for at least two weeks, instead of the ointment. Repeat each day until the skin returns to its normal texture and elasticity.

Q: What if I get scabs?
A: It is important to maintain the appropriate aftercare to prevent scabs from forming as they can prolong and complicate the healing process, which can lead to uneven healing and even scarring. If scabs do form, once the tattoo is in the full peeling phase, sparingly apply lotion to the entire area making sure to thoroughly massage and not over apply or soak scabs with lotion. Any developed scabs should not be picked at or prematurely removed. If you get any pimples in the area tattooed during this phase, you need to decrease lotion application times or switch down to a lighter lotion.

Q: It looks like I have clear fluid-filled blisters or pimples in the area that was tattooed? What should I do?
A: You may have heat rash, a skin condition caused by blocked sweat ducts and trapped sweat beneath the skin. Heat rash usually clears on its own but you can help relieve symptoms by cooling your skin and preventing sweating. If your symptoms last longer than a few days, the rash seems to be getting worse, or you notice signs of infection, contact a trained physician.