What Is Second Skin and How to use it

So, you made it through your tattoo session. Your artist proudly snapped some pics of your fresh tattoo and now wraps your body with that old-school clear film we’ve all seen in those 80s, right?

Well, that’s a fair and time tested method to protect your tattoo during the first couple of hours. But hey, we’re in the 21st century now, and things have evolved.

Let’s take a look at what healing methods are out there these days.

• There are different types of clear film, the kind you even find in grocery stores.

• Then we’ve got nappies (yep!), used for big pieces, to keep your tattoo nice and moist.

• Certain sprays create a thin protective layer on top of your skin.

• There’s also the air-drying technique, and of course, second skin, available in all shapes, brands, and styles.

I’ve been using second skin for the past five years now, and I have to say, my clients are happy with it and honestly, so am I.

I’ve tried second skin from different brands like Suprasorb B, Tattoomed Tattoo Protection Film, Unistar, Dermalize Pro (in both transparent and black), and even Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Wrap.

I was especially happy with Dermalize Pro’s UV block version the black film. It protects fresh tattoos from sunlight in the first few days, and since we’re close to the beach, in a surf-related area with sun and tickling beach sand everywhere, I definitely want to keep it in my shop for summer sessions.

Right now, I’m also using Hustle Butter’s wrap, and I’m super satisfied with it. It sticks well to the skin and doesn’t peel off too early, which is perfect.

So what are the benefits of second skin?

It protects your tattoo from dirt, dust, sweat and basically anything that wants to sneak in and start a party.It speeds up healing and creates a natural barrier between your fresh tattoo and bacteria.

But here’s the downside:

Some of you might be allergic to the glue similar to the stuff used in Hansaplast or other plasters. That same adhesive is used to make second skin stick so well.

If you’re sensitive, it can cause skin irritation like redness, small blisters, or even darkening of the skin where the film was applied. So yeah make sure to let your artist know before applying second skin if you’ve had allergic reactions to adhesives before. (Though honestly, this should usually be discussed before your session even starts.)

Okay, last thing: second skin is an amazing product for smaller tattoos.It’s great for surfers, since it protects the tattoo from the ocean, and it’s super helpful for people with active lifestyles who have a hard time resting. It helps you keep going but it won’t save your tattoo if you push yourself too hard or skip proper aftercare.

50% of how your tattoo will look depends on you.

You can check out my Second Skin Tattoo Aftercare Blog Post for professional tips on how to treat your tattoo after your session.

Got questions? Drop me a message

Thx for reading.