Tattoo Aftercare with Cora Mylene Tattoos

Your skin just did something brave.
A fresh tattoo is controlled trauma — and the way you care for it will shape how it heals, how it looks, and how long it lasts. I'm here to walk you through every step: from day one to long-term care.

Important: Always follow the instructions I gave you during your appointment or via email/text. If anything in this guide differs from that, follow my direct advice — it’s personalized for your skin, your placement, and your bandage type.

If anything feels off or you're unsure, reach out to me directly. Please don’t crowdsource healing advice online — every tattoo is different.

Close-up of hands gently placing a protective film over a freshly tattooed forearm

Quick Start: First 24 Hours

If you’re wearing a film bandage (Saniderm, DermShield):

Keep it on for the full time I recommended (typically 3–4 days, up to 7).
If it lifts, leaks, or peels early, contact me or switch to no-film care.
❊Totally normal: A clear or slightly inky fluid pocket under the film.
Shower normally — but no soaking (baths, pools, hot tubs).

If you left without film (or removed it already):

Gently wash 2–3×/day with warm water and a mild, unscented soap.
Pat dry with a clean towel (no rubbing).
Wear loose, clean clothing that won’t stick or rub.

Film Bandage Aftercare

While the film is on:

Showers are fine, but don’t soak or sun-expose the tattoo.
Skip high-sweat workouts.
Fluid buildup is expected — don’t press it out.

When removing the film:

 Peel gently under warm water. Baby oil, lotion, or coconut oil can help.
Wash the area thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
Let the skin breathe for 24 hours before applying lotion.

No-Film Aftercare
(or After Film Removal)

 Wash gently 2×/day for the first 3–5 days.
 Pat dry with a clean towel.
 Apply a whisper-thin layer of fragrance-free, non-petroleum lotion if the skin feels dry, tight, or itchy.
 Avoid heavy ointments unless I specifically recommend them.

My go-to products:

 Soap: Dial (gentle, antimicrobial)
 Lotion: Hustle Butter, Burt’s Bees Hand Salve (light feel)

Looking for simple, reliable tattoo care tips? These products are a great place to start.