How long should Saniderm be left on a tattoo?

Author: Dr. Providenci Harber  |  Last update: Monday, September 8, 2025

SANIDERM METHOD After Saniderm is applied, leave it on for 3 - 5 days. You can work, exercise, and shower as you would normally, but do not submerge the Saniderm underwater. After you take off the bandage, wash with hypoallergenic soap and apply small amounts of unscented moisturizer.

How long should I keep my tattoo wrapped in Saniderm?

You shouldnt keep saniderm on for 7 days. 3-4 days is the correct length of time. At this point if the tattoo isn't completely sealed in the saniderm then you should just remove it and care for it as usual. Keep it clean and your hair out of it if your hair is long.

How do you know when it's time to take off Saniderm?

You shouldnt keep saniderm on for 7 days. 3-4 days is the correct length of time. At this point if the tattoo isn't completely sealed in the saniderm then you should just remove it and care for it as usual. Keep it clean and your hair out of it if your hair is long.

Is it possible to leave Saniderm on too long?

If you find the tattoo weeps into the second piece, remove it at the next 24 hour period. Then wash the tattoo, apply aftercare if needed, and apply a third piece. This third piece can be worn for up to 5 days. Saniderm should not be worn for more than 7 days total.”

How to tell if a tattoo is healed under Saniderm?

Usually the tattoo will exude plasma, basically will look like a blob underneathe as the skin heals. Completely normal, will go back to it's normal shade once you take it off and give it a clean.

How to PROPERLY USE Saniderm on a NEW tattoo (ft. instructions from a representative)

Do tattoos heal faster with Saniderm?

ACCELERATE THE TATTOO HEALING PROCESS – Saniderm tattoo care bandages help prevent scabbing, which means accelerated tattoo healing and less irritation. Less scabbing also means the risk of damaging your tattoo is greatly reduced.

Can I take Saniderm off after 3 days?

SANIDERM AFTERCARE

Leave the Saniderm on for 3-5 days - do not leave it on for over 5. While the Saniderm is on: You do not need to do anything to the tattoo. You may notice excess ink pooling inside of the bandage - this is normal.

What happens if I take my Saniderm off early?

Healing With Saniderm

Alternatively, if the fluid that collected beneath your Saniderm has dried out or has become itchy or uncomfortable, it is perfectly okay to remove the bandage and begin washing/caring for your tattoo -- even if this happens before the 3-5 day mark!

How long to keep a tattoo covered with second skin?

Tattoo Aftercare with Second Skin

Wait until the area is fully dry, and then reapply a new layer of second skin. You may need some help in reapplying the film in difficult-to-reach areas. This new layer you should keep for 3 to 5 days for the best results.

Can I put Saniderm over Aquaphor?

Make sure you use a glycerin-free ointment (i.e. no Aquaphor) under your Saniderm bandage.

How long after a tattoo can you shower normally?

You can shower 3-4 hours after getting a tattoo, if you have a Saniderm bandage on, however, if you have a plastic wrap wait 24 hours to unwrap your tattoo and shower. In either case, shower in cold or lukewarm water and avoid prolonged soaking or submerging your tattoo in water for 3-4 weeks.

Is an air bubble in Saniderm bad?

air bubbles are fine, it's when the saniderm starts leaking that there could be problems.

How do I know when to take off Saniderm?

You do not want to leave the build up for more than one day. Remove Saniderm when there is build up, clean and dry the tattooed area and re-apply.

Should I take Saniderm off if it's leaking?

* You cannot leave saniderm on your tattoo, if it is leaking. If bacteria can get out of your bandage, it can get in - leaving you susceptible to infection. You cannot Tape saniderm back on, this is not a sanitary way to re-attach your saniderm.

Does Saniderm prevent scabbing?

When applied immediately after your tattoo session, Saniderm protects your tattoo from dirt and bacteria. and germs. Saniderm also reduce scabbing (which is detrimental your tattoo), reduces pain, and keeps your ink locked in for a more vibrant tattoo.

How long do I keep my tattoo covered with Saniderm?

SANIDERM METHOD

After Saniderm is applied, leave it on for 3 - 5 days. You can work, exercise, and shower as you would normally, but do not submerge the Saniderm underwater. After you take off the bandage, wash with hypoallergenic soap and apply small amounts of unscented moisturizer.

What happens if you leave a tattoo bandage on too long?

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.

Can tattoos heal without Saniderm?

If you do not have Saniderm on:

Step 1: Wash tattoo with lukewarm water and non-scented antibacterial soap, using only your hands, do not use any scrubbers or washcloths. Wash until the tattoo is completely clear of blood and plasma. Step 2: Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Let air dry for 5-10 minutes.

How long should you keep the second skin on a tattoo?

It is vitally important that you ensure your tattoo is clean and dry before reapplying the bandage to avoid infection. You can leave your second-skin bandage on for 3-5 days which should allow your tattoo to get straight to the flaking phase of healing.

Should I sleep with cling film on my tattoo?

Your first night sleeping, your artist might recommend you re-wrap the tattoo with plastic wrap (like Saran Wrap) to sleep without the tattoo sticking to your sheets. This is generally for larger or solid-color tattoos. If your artist did not recommend re-wrapping, just let the tattoo stay exposed to air overnight.

Is it OK to take Saniderm off early?

Taking the bandage off after a day prevents fluid buildup.

You can remove a Saniderm bandage as soon as 8 hours after it's first applied if the adhesive starts to weaken. This is more common on tattoos that have heavily saturated colors or shading.

Do you use Aquaphor after Saniderm?

Apply a thin film of "Aquaphor" as needed to keep moisturized for the next 3-4 days (1 day if Saniderm was used). Blot any excess amount! DO NOT overuse!

Will tattoos still peel after Saniderm?

Saniderm allows the tattoo to breathe fully while protecting it and keeping the perfect moisture balance. In most cases the tattoo is healed once the Saniderm comes off, but there may be another day of two of peeling skin. There will be another week or so of the skin appearing dry, or even flaking.

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