When it comes to the aftercare of a newly finished tattoo, there’s often a cloud of uncertainty about the best practices.
One common method employed by many in the tattoo community involves the use of Tegaderm, a medical-grade, adhesive bandage.
This clear plastic covering, akin to Saran wrap, but much more advanced, covers the tattoo, providing a breathable, yet protected environment. It’s easy to move around in and not restrictive, making Tegaderm a synonymous brand with comfort and care in the tattoo world.
A frequent question posed to tattoo artists is: “how long to leave Tegaderm on tattoos?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope.
Each person you ask might tell you a different timeline, reflecting the individual nature of healing and aftercare.
However, it’s generally agreed that Tegaderm offers one of the best bandages to facilitate healing.
The point at which these bandages come off can vary, but it’s essential to understand when and why they should eventually start to be removed, as part of your comprehensive tattoo aftercare.
Also Read: How Long To Leave Tegaderm On Tattoos
Time To Remove Initial Tegaderm
In the journey of tattoo aftercare, a critical step is determining the time to remove the initial Tegaderm. Conventional wisdom often instructed that this should happen within the first 24 hours.
The initial wrap is there to catch any fluids and protect the tattoo in its very early stages. However, there are long-standing discrepancies in recommendations.
Ultimately, whether to leave it on for just a few hours or a day poses no problem to the tattoo’s healing process.
Some people might opt to remove the Tegaderm after 2 hours, while others prefer waiting up to 8 hours, especially if they recommend sleeping with it to avoid any twist or turn affecting the tattoo.
Also Read: Tegaderm Vs Saniderm: Fortify Your Ink With The Ultimate Defense
I’ve heard of cases where it’s left for the whole 7 days, although a consensus seems to be around 3 to 4 days within a week.
The truth is, the initial Tegaderm doesn’t apply after the first cleaning. Once you remove the initial wrap, it’s time to wash the tattoo and start aftercare beyond the Tegaderm.
This process is often referred to as wrap healing, and considerations for the second wrap onwards are different, focusing on longer-term protection and care of your tattoo.
Also Read: What Happens If You Use Scented Soap On A Tattoo: Surprising Truths Unveiled!
Tattoo Aftercare Tegaderm
In Tattoo Aftercare, using Tegaderm often leads to confusion, especially about the time to remove it.
It’s important to go over what aftercare looks like, which is completely different from usual methods.
Artists suggest to bear in mind that this approach is specific and should be followed only if your tattoo artist recommends it.
Also Read: Can You Get A Tattoo On Accutane
First Day (Day Of Tattoo)
On the first day, specifically one to two hours after your tattoo session, it’s crucial to remove the initial plastic Saran Wrap or bandage that was applied at the shop.
Carefully wash the area with warm water and a mild soap like Dial Gold Antibacterial soap.
After washing, pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Then, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor and reapply a new cellophane bandage, which you should keep until the following morning.
Days 2-8
Upon waking up, it’s time to remove the plastic bandage you’ve been wearing. Gently wash your tattoo to ensure cleanliness.
Then, open an alcohol prep pad and wipe around the skin’s perimeter to remove any oils, residues, or moisture that may be remaining.
This step is vital for the next stage of care. Now, it’s time to apply a new sheet of Tegaderm adhesive bandage.
Be careful to use a piece big enough to cover the tattoo with at least one inch beyond its edges.
If you’re unsure about how to use Tegaderm, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the back of the card.
If necessary, and your tattoo is large, more than one piece of Tegaderm might be needed.
In that case, make sure the edges of each sheet overlap on clean skin to ensure the new Tegaderm bandage can best adhere.
This bandage should ideally be left on for 3 to 5 days. To remove it, begin by peeling back the edges and pulling in the direction of hair growth to minimize discomfort.
Tegaderm has strong adhesion, so if you find it challenging to remove, try doing so in a warm shower.
If needed, gently rub olive oil or coconut oil around the edges to loosen the adhesion.
This approach ensures your tattoo remains protected while allowing your skin to breathe and heal effectively.
Also Read: Is Dove Soap Good For Tattoos
Follow Up Care (1-2 Weeks)
After removing the Tegaderm, gently wash your tattoo with warm water and soap. During this phase, the tattoo should remain unbandaged for the remainder of the healing phase.
It’s essential to keep the area moisturized, so apply a thin layer of unscented hand lotion twice daily. Be cautious not to over-apply; just enough to rub into the skin gently.
Healing time varies from individual to individual. The average healing time is typically one to two weeks, but some people may experience a longer healing time.
This is especially true for tattoos with certain colors, which have a tendency to take longer to heal than others.
For example, the color red often heals slower, appearing pink at first. Red usually takes a few days longer to darken to its proper tone.
It’s important to think of your tattoo as an open wound during this period. Keep the area clean, avoid touching it unnecessarily, and be extra cautious while caring for it. Don’t pick, scratch, or itch at the tattoo.
Also, avoid activities like soaking, swimming, or getting it wet beyond necessary washing. Always pat it dry afterwards.
Until fully healed, avoid exposing your tattoo to the sun. Following these instructions will help ensure your tattoo heals to its fullest potential.
Also Read: How Soon After Laparoscopic Surgery Can I Get A Tattoo
How The Tegaderm Will Look Like During Aftercare?
During aftercare, most are curious about how Tegaderm will appear. On the first day, you can expect an ink sack to start forming over the tattoo, resembling a big bubble.
This sack is not a cause for alarm; it merely contains a mixture of blood, tattoo ink, and plasma. If it bursts, just open, wash, and rewrap.
In the next few wraps, any blood or fluid under the Tegaderm becomes noticeable, especially if it has pooled.
By the second week, you might see a bit of scarring around the edges, and the ink, particularly packed colors, might appear noticeably duller. This is perfectly fine and expected.
Once the tattoo is fully healed, the colors, including Red, which takes the longest to heal, will be nice and vibrant.
Initially, Red may appear pink, and black might look like a dull gray, but by the end, after keeping the wrap on, these colors will brighten.
During the healing process, a little redness, scabbing, or peeling is normal and will eventually fall off, leaving the ink vivid and clear.
Remember, the appearance of Tegaderm during aftercare is a part of the healing journey, and the final outcome is usually worth the patience.
Also Read: Calf Tattoo Hurts To Walk? Discover Proven Strategies For Pain-Free Steps
7 Alternatives To Tegaderm
If you’re exploring alternatives to Tegaderm for tattoo aftercare, here’s a list of options, each with its unique benefits:
- Saniderm – The closest thing to Tegaderm, widely used and recommended.
- Tatu-derm – Another popular choice, especially among tattoo enthusiasts.
- Derm Shield – Provides similar protection and is easy to use.
- SecondSkin – Offers a breathable, protective layer for your new ink.
- Nexcare Tattoo Bandages – A reliable option from a well-known brand.
- Ink Guard – Tailored for tattoo protection and healing.
- Hypafix – A derma wrap often used in hospitals for wound care, effective for tattoo healing as well.
Also Read: Is Dermasil Good For Tattoos
FAQs About How Long To Leave Tegaderm On Tattoos
1. What Happens If You Leave Tegaderm On For Too Long?
If you leave Tegaderm on for too long, your tattoo may become submerged in blood and ink, which can hinder the healing process of the new tattoo.
2. Does Tegaderm Pull Ink From The Tattoo?
Tegaderm does not pull the actual ink that’s settled into the skin of the tattoo; it may only remove excess ink during the first few days.
3. What If The Tegaderm Comes Off Too Early?
If Tegaderm comes off too early, wash and moisturize the tattoo, then either reapply a new piece or use medical tape to secure it in place if not removed completely.
4. How To Remove Tegaderm From Your Tattoo?
To remove Tegaderm from your tattoo, start by pulling at the edges of the bandage. If it’s not good enough to weaken the adhesive, apply coconut oil or water to make it easier.
5. Can I Shower With Tegaderm On My Tattoo?
Yes, you can shower with Tegaderm on your tattoo as these bandages are waterproof and safe. However, try not to shower for too long as prolonged exposure may weaken the adhesive if kept in water too long.
6. Can You Leave Tegaderm On Too Long?
Leaving Tegaderm (or similar products like Saniderm) on a tattoo for too long can be problematic. It’s advised not to leave it for more than 3 days as fluid might build up and leak in or out of the clear adhesive film.
7. Can I Take Tegaderm Off After 2 Days?
It’s recommended to leave Tegaderm on for 3-4 days to properly protect the tattoo from infection, abrasion, irritation, and contamination, ensuring optimal healing. Removing it earlier may not provide adequate protection.
8. How Long To Leave Tegaderm On Tattoos After 2 Days?
Even after 2 days, it’s advisable to leave Tegaderm on for a total of 3-4 days. It acts as a sterile, breathable, waterproof, and germ-proof barrier to protect the new tattoo and should not be lifted, changed, or removed prematurely.
9. Will Tattoo Peel After Tegaderm?
Peeling of the tattoo after the use of Tegaderm is normal, often occurring gently around the fourth or fifth day. Avoid wearing tight or coarse-textured clothing, like denim waistbands or lace bra-straps, that may irritate it for several days.
10. Do Tattoos Heal Faster With Tegaderm?
Using Tegaderm can be great for tattoos, as it’s low-maintenance and may reduce healing time. Although it’s water-resistant, it’s best to keep the tattoo out of water as much as possible and avoid harsh soaps or body products.
11. How Do You Know When To Remove Tegaderm From A Tattoo?
You should remove Tegaderm typically after 3 to 5 days. When peeling back the edges and pulling the sheet in the direction of hair growth, if there’s strong adhesion, a warm shower may help ease the removal.
12. Should I Moisturize Before Tegaderm?
You do NOT need to apply lotion to your tattoo at the time between Tegaderm applications. It’s essential to keep the skin always free of oils and substances before applying Tegaderm.
Also Read: Why Is My Tattoo Shiny
Conclusion
Understanding “how long to leave tegaderm on tattoos” provides a clearer understanding of tattoo aftercare, which can vary significantly from person to person.
The initial confusion often arises in the first 24 hours, a crucial time when the initial wrap should be taken off and replaced with a new one.
It’s important to remember that while the Tegaderm may become obscured or seem worrisome, it’s a normal part of the healing process.
Each tattoo and individual heals differently, and what works for one may not for another. When it comes to aftercare, especially with a product like Tegaderm, the tattoo artist often knows best. It’s vital to listen to their advice when it comes to leaving the shop with your brand-new tattoo.
Ultimately, whether you’re dealing with Tegaderm, alternative bandages, or different aftercare methods, the goal remains the same: ensuring your tattoo is fully healed and looks its best.
Also Read: How To Remove Tattoo Stencil At Home Like A Pro!