Adhesive Tattoo Bandages (Hypafix, Saniderm, etc.)

How adhesive tattoo bandages Work

Adhesive tattoo bandages minimize the risk of infection by protecting your tattoo so it can heal through its own natural methods.

While your skin is in the first stage of healing, it is especially susceptible to infection from outside elements. This includes airborne bacteria, dirt, dust, pet dander, and environmental elements. In many cases, you may not even be aware that you have been exposed to such factors. When applying a moisturizer to the tattoo, you create a tacky surface for these elements to stick to. Obviously, this heightens the risk of infection.

For this reason, many people turn to a tattoo bandage to help cover the skin and limit the risk of contamination. However, it is important to steer clear of household plastic wrap, as it does not allow the tattoo to breathe—a crucial part of the healing process.

Adhesive Tattoo Bandages Are Different

By design, Hypafix and Saniderm adhesive bandages are permeable enough for oxygen and water vapor to pass through. This is important, as it allows the wounded area to maintain optimal levels of breathability. Additionally, these bandages protect against dirt and germs, offering protection from friction and other irritants. No worries about your pet(s) rubbing against your tattoo or trying to stop nosey people from rubbing their hands on it. Adhesive bandages work by locking in your body’s natural healing fluids so your tattoo stays hydrated and heals quickly and efficiently with no scabbing and reduced scarring. Hypafix and Saniderm bandages are gas permeable and permeable to water vapour, allowing your skin to breathe and get all the oxygen it needs to heal perfectly.

Another perk—because it is breathable, you can wear these adhesive tattoo bandages for several days at a time while your tattoo heals.  This allows you to skip out on the frequent washing and ointment applying involved with traditional tattoo aftercare.

Our Recommended Adhesive Tattoo Bandage Aftercare:

(we prefer Hypafix brand adhesive tattoo bandages)

IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TATTOO

  • Keep adhesive bandage on for either 24 hours if applied immediately after you finished tattoo or for 5-7 days if you apply the bandage the following day — follow the timeline and instructions that your artist recommends for you and your tattoo.

  • If you notice any redness, swelling or discomfort with the wrap please remove it immediately and wash the area. (If you have questions or concerns about the adhesive bandages, please contact your artist directly).

  • Your tattoo will feel hot to the touch for 24-48 hours — this is normal. You may also experience swelling of the tattooed area for about 3 days. Applying ice packs to the tattooed area may help alleviate redness and swelling.

  • If fluid is leaking outside of the adhesive bandage, remove the adhesive bandage immediately as it is not thoroughly protecting your tattoo — bacteria can get in underneath the bandage through these access points.

  • Avoid the gym or excessive sweating for 2-3 days.

  • You may shower normally. DO NOT use any scented soaps or exfoliants on the bandaged area.

  • Your tattoo will start to scab around day 3. Flaking and peeling is normal. If your adhesive bandage is still on at this time, your tattoo will be protected but will still feel itchy — this is normal. If you leave your adhesive bandage on for 3-7 days, when you remove it, the part of your skin that would normally scab and flake off will be attached to the bandage — this is normal. DO NOT PICK AT OR ITCH YOUR HEALING TATTOO.

removing the bandage

  • When it is time to remove the adhesive wrap it is best to remove wrap under running lukewarm water. With clean hands, gently clean off the tattoo with the palm of your hand (use only water with a non-scented antibacterial soap). To dry tattoo, pat with a dry paper towel - DO NOT rub with paper towel and DO NOT use wash cloths or bath towels.

  • Once you have removed the adhesive bandage and pat dry the tattooed area, use a non-scented moisturizer on the tattooed area — apply a thin layer 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks.

    Recommended: Cetaphil, CeraVe, Lubriderm or Aveeno brand lotions

  • AVOID excessive sun or tanning for AT LEAST 14 days.

  • AVOID submerging your tattoo in water for AT LEAST 14 days. This includes swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, the ocean, bath tubs, etc.

2 WEEKS - 1 MONTH AFTER TATTOO

  • Moisturize as needed.

  • Use sunblock (30 SPF or higher) to avoid tattoo fading over time.

If you have any questions about your healing tattoo, don’t hesitate to contact your artist directly.

If you believe your tattoo may be infected, please contact a doctor immediately.