Derm Shield Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Congratulations on your new tattoo! Quality is truly our commitment, and we want to ensure your tattoo heals optimally by following these easy steps.

Step-by-Step Aftercare

  1. Leave the first piece of Derm Shield on for 8 to 24 hours. It is normal for fluid to build up under the bandage, especially with color tattoos. If you see fluid, do not leave the bandage on for several days.

  2. Removing the bandage & cleaning your tattoo. For best results, remove the bandage in the shower using hot water and mild liquid soap. Derm Shield is stretchy and should peel off easily. Clean the tattoo gently—do not scrub. Liquid Dial Gold Soap works well for cleaning.

  3. Drying your tattoo before applying a second bandage. After your shower, let the tattoo air dry or gently dab it with a towel. Do not use lotion, as it will prevent the second piece of Derm Shield from sticking properly.

  4. Applying the second Derm Shield bandage. Peel the white side off first to reveal the sticky side. Do not let it fold onto itself, as it cannot be separated once stuck. Carefully place it over the tattoo, pressing down in the center first and smoothing outward to avoid bubbles. Then, find the orange/yellow seam to remove the clear plastic layer.Bubbles or creases will not affect healing—they are just cosmetic. If applied perfectly, the bandage will be nearly invisible.

  5. How long to wear the second bandage. This bandage should be worn for 3 to 5 days. It is waterproof, so you can shower as usual.If your tattoo seeps fluid under this bandage, remove it and apply a third bandage for another 3 to 5 days.When removing the bandage, you may notice an imprint of your tattoo on it—this is normal and does not mean ink has been pulled from your tattoo. Traditional healing would shed this layer in the shower, but Derm Shield traps it under the bandage.

  6. Optional third bandage & final healing stage. A third bandage is optional:Use it if the first two bandages filled with fluid.Apply it if your tattoo still feels like it’s healing after removing the second bandage.After removing all bandages, your tattoo should be past the scabbing phase. It may lightly peel, similar to sunburned skin. You can apply a small amount of lotion to help with flaking and to keep your tattoo looking fresh.

Need Help? If you have any questions about aftercare, give us a call at 330-757-4824 or stop in—we’d be happy to walk you through the process!