Laughing Koffin Tattoo
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Care instructions

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Care instructions

Tattoo aftercare

So you got stabbed? If it was by us, read below! If it was in the parking lot, go to the hospital!

OPTION 1: Traditional healing

 Day 1–2:

  • Once your tattoo is done, your artist may initially protect it with a thin layer of plastic wrap.
  • This serves as a temporary barrier to outside bacteria, helping you get home with a clean tattoo.
  • Remove wrap within 30 minutes – 2 hours, as advised by your artist.
  • Clean with lukewarm water and unscented soap.
  • Pat dry with a paper towel and apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or healing ointment.

Day 3 and beyond:

  • Switch to a light, water-based lotion 2–3× daily.
  • Expect peeling, flaking, and itching — don’t pick or scratch.

OPTION 2: Saniderm or "second skin"

A polyurethane-acrylic adhesive medical bandage. [Not generally advised for those with sensitive skin or known allergies to other adhesives. Please discuss with your tattooist]


How to use:

  • Cut Saniderm 1-2" larger than your tattoo around all sides.
  • Remove the white paper backing then center and place gently over tattoo, massaging it onto skin from the middle outward.
  • Remove the remaining clear patterned layer.
  • Leave on for 12–24 hours.
  • Expect fluid to pool under the bandage- however, if it becomes excessive or compromises adhesion, simply remove and reapply.
  • Remove Saniderm under warm running water (preferably shower) by pulling a corner of the bandage up and peeling slowly.
  • Clean with unscented, gentle soap (e.g., Dial, Cetaphil, Dr. Bronner’s Baby) 
  • Pat dry with a paper towel making sure to leave no soap residue.
  • Apply second bandage. (optional)
  • The second wrap may be left on for 3–5 days.

OPTION 3: Ink Beetle Derm Gel

A vegan, adhesive-free gel that forms a breathable healing barrier. Ideal for sensitive skin.


How to use:

  • Wait 5–10 minutes after tattoo is complete.
  • Apply thin layer to clean, dry skin and allow 3–5 minutes to dry.
  • Leave on for 2–24 hours.
  • Wash gently and reapply 2× daily for 3–4 days.


Ingredients include: Aloe, Shea Butter, Rosemary Oil, Lavender Oil. Latex & Adhesive Free.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you cannot find an answer to your question, please contact us through our website contact form (bottom right), email laughingkoffin@tattoo.com, or call us at 423-206-9933.

Yes, gently. Use cool/lukewarm water when possible. Pat your tattoo dry after.


Avoid swimming or soaking in pools, lakes, hot tubs, and baths until your tattoo is at least 2 weeks old. Prolonged submersion can introduce bacteria, increase the risk of infection, and may cause your ink to fade/blur by softening scabs and disrupting the healing process.


Avoid tanning beds and direct sun exposure for at least 4-6 weeks. Once healed, a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended on tattoos.


Solid color tattoos scab more than fine line or simple work.


New skin is hazy or milky — clarity returns after full healing.


It could be ink and plasma! Often misidentified as pus but if it's thick, smells foul, or is unreasonably painful— it could be infected.

  • Pus - a collection of white blood cells fighting bacteria. Has white appearance.
  • Plasma - the liquid component of blood. Pale yellow in color. Sometimes accompanied by blood or ink.


  • Redness that is spreading
  • Thick, foul-smelling pus or boils
  • Blisters or itchy rash
  • Constant wetness/odor (generally caused by over-moisturizing)
  • Scabs cracking open (generally caused by not moisturizing enough)


WHAT TO EXPECT BY TATTOO TYPE

Healing process: Light peeling and minor flaking

Fully Healed: 1-2 weeks

Notes: Smoothest healing type


Healing process: Heals harder, thicker scabs, tighter skin

Fully Healed: 2-3 weeks

Notes: Can become dried out easily, keep moisturized


Healing process: Thick scabs, possible cracking and/or presence of plasma, and skin shine during healing

Fully Healed: 3-4 weeks

Notes: Avoid over-washing


Healing process: Redness, swelling, flaking, may fade quickly

Fully Healed: 1-2 weeks

Notes: Often needs touch-up.


Healing process: Heals slower due to being a high movement area and easy to smother

Fully Healed: 3-5+ weeks

Notes: Higher risk of irritation/infection


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