Clean and dry the new tattoo and surrounding skin, and do not apply any lotions or ointments. Before starting the Saniderm process, make sure the entire area has been shaved, plus an additional inch all the way around the site of the tattoo, as this will help with bandage adhesion and removal.

Cut the Saniderm tattoo aftercare bandage to allow at least 1 inch of the bandage to be in contact with undamaged skin around the tattooed area. More room is suggested in highly mobile areas.

Practice before you apply. If it’s your first time using Saniderm, it may be a little tricky to work with. It doesn’t hurt to practice with a small section first–just make sure you shave the area.

To use the bandage, first peel off the paper backing to reveal the adhesive side. Gently apply the bandage adhesive side down, using light pressure. The bandage should lay smooth across the skin, with minimal air bubbles. For best results, ensure that the skin is in a neutral position–not overly stretched out or overly wrinkled.

Once it’s fully adhered to the tattooed area and surrounding skin, remove the clear plastic backing by looking for the printed arrows or seams, leaving only the Saniderm/Tegaderm layer on the skin. It’s okay when using multiple bandages on large tattoos, to overlap them by 1/2 inch (1 cm). Ensure the bandage is sealed to the skin all the way around the tattoo.

If the bandage is completely sealed all the way around the tattoo, it is considered waterproof and activities like swimming or bathing will not affect the tattoo. However, as with all fresh tattoos it is still an open wound that needs to be protected, so all activities are done at your own risk.

Wear the first bandage for 12-48 hours, depending on how much the tattoo weeps or how well it remains sealed to the skin. If a lot of plasma and blood collects inside the sealed bandage or it starts to peel off, it’s necessary to remove it, clean and dry the tattoo, and reapply a new bandage sooner than if there is very little fluid in the bandage.

Leaving the bandage on for too long can result in infection, so always change your bandage within the stated timeframe. Most tattoos can be properly healed with 2 applications of the bandage, with each application being left on the skin for 1-2 days, for a 3 or 4 day total.

To remove the Saniderm, carefully peel up from one corner, slowly massaging the adhesive bandage off of the skin. This step may be uncomfortable, as the bandage may pull the tattooed skin upwards as it’s removed, but careful removal can minimize the discomfort. Removal under warm soapy water, such as in the shower, can also help minimize discomfort.

After you remove the first Saniderm bandage (12-48 hours), clean and dry the area, and apply a second bandage. If using a glycerin based soap, be sure to rinse thoroughly, as any residue will react with the adhesives and can cause binding and irritation. Avoid loofahs or scratchy wash cloths.

Bandages applied after the first one can be worn longer if needed, since the tattoo has usually stopped oozing after the first 48 hours, but in general it’s best to change the bandage once every two days.

Troubleshooting:

Problems with this healing method are very similar to those that can occur in Method Two. If the tattoo becomes exceptionally painful, with irritated skin around it or a foul odor, immediately remove the bandage and discontinue use. If pain or odor continues to increase, the tattoo may be infected, and medical attention should be sought immediately.