Traditional Tattoo Healing — Day 2

First wash, light lotion, plasma slowing down

Most collectors remove second-skin or switch to breathable aftercare on day two or three. The tattoo may look dull as plasma film builds — washing reveals true color underneath.

What's normal

• Slight swelling still present on hands, feet, and ankles.
• Skin feels tight; fine grey tattoos may look slightly thicker until peel.
• Gentle wash with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap — pat dry, air 5–10 minutes.
• Thin application of approved lotion once dry — Vegas dryness may need two light passes.

Watch for — not typical

• Heavy scabbing that cracks when you move (often from over-lotioning or picking).
• Blistering under second-skin — remove film and contact studio.

Call Work of Art

• Second-skin traps fluid under the whole piece — send a photo before removing.
• Unsure if your wash routine matches what Joshua or Katelyn demonstrated in-studio.

Message or book · (725) 224-1240

See a doctor

• Pus, fever, or pain that wakes you at night and worsens daily.

We share general aftercare education — not medical advice.

Las Vegas desert notes

• Desert heat + gym sweat: skip heavy workouts that soak the tattoo for 48–72 hours.
• Hotel rooms on the Strip run dry — a humidifier helps peel phase later, not day two alone.

Studio documentation

Studio photo for this style and stage is not yet documented. See our healed gallery and real client timeline for available proof.