How to Use Tattoo Film the Right Way (and Avoid Common Issues)

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience. The vibrant artwork etched onto your skin is something to be proud of. But the process does not end once the tattoo session is over. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and remains as vivid as the day it was inked. One of the most innovative tools available for tattoo aftercare is the second skin film, often referred to as tattoo film or Pickle Film by Dr Pickles.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to apply tattoo second skin film the right way, how to maintain its effectiveness, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you are a freshly tattooed client, a professional tattoo artist, or a skin safety enthusiast, understanding the correct application method and maintenance tips is key to preventing issues such as tattoo film peeling, ensuring secure placement, and maximising waterproof tattoo protection.

What Is Tattoo Second Skin Film?

Tattoo second skin film is a transparent, hypoallergenic adhesive bandage designed to shield fresh tattoos from external contaminants while providing a breathable environment that promotes healing. The Dr Pickles Pickle Film is made with a unique snake skin matte finish that blends seamlessly into the skin and offers a thin, flexible, waterproof layer that protects the tattoo.

Why Is It Important?

Using tattoo film is not just about aesthetics. Proper aftercare plays a vital role in:

• Preventing infection

• Preserving ink vibrance and detail

• Reducing the risk of scarring

• Providing a barrier against environmental factors such as UV exposure, dirt, and sweat

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Tattoo Second Skin Film

Applying the tattoo film correctly is essential for optimal results. Follow these steps to ensure maximum protection and a comfortable healing process.

Step 1: Prepare the Skin

Before applying the film, it is crucial to ensure the tattooed area is clean and dry. After your tattoo session:

• Wait for any excess blood or ink to be wiped off by your tattoo artist.

• Gently cleanse the area with Dr Pickles Antibacterial Foam Wash to remove any lingering bacteria or sweat.

• Pat dry the skin using a clean, lint-free cloth.

This preparation ensures that the adhesive sticks well and prevents tattoo film peeling later.

Step 2: Cut the Film to Size

The Tattoo Pickle Film comes in a roll, typically 15cm by 10m, giving you plenty of material to cut to the size of your tattoo. It is important to:

• Cut the film slightly larger than the tattooed area to provide full coverage and allow a small margin for secure adhesion.

• Round the corners of the film piece to reduce the chances of peeling.

Step 3: Apply the Film Correctly

Now comes the crucial step of how to apply tattoo second skin film:

• Remove the protective backing from the adhesive side of the film.

• Hold the film by the edges to avoid touching the adhesive part.

• Place the film gently over the tattoo, ensuring it covers the entire area without stretching.

• Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles by pressing gently from the centre outwards.

• Ensure the edges of the film are fully adhered to your skin without any gaps.

This secure placement prevents the film from lifting prematurely and keeps the tattoo shielded from dirt and moisture.

Step 4: Monitor Film Duration

The first application of the Dr Pickles Pickle Film should stay on for up to 24 hours. During this time, the film acts as a barrier while allowing the skin to breathe. After 24 hours:

• Carefully remove the film by taking a warm shower to relax the adhesive and make removal gentle.

• Cleanse the tattoo area again with the Antibacterial Tattoo Foam Wash.

• If desired, a fresh piece of film can be applied following the same method, but only after the skin has fully dried.

It is important to understand that overusing the film without breaks or applying multiple layers at once can hinder the skin's natural ability to heal.

Step 5: Final Care Post-Film

Once you decide to stop using the film:

• Continue daily cleansing with Dr Pickles Antibacterial Foam Wash 2–3 times a day.

• Apply a thin layer of Dr Pickles Tattoo Balm to promote healing and keep the skin moisturised.

• Protect the tattoo from direct sunlight and avoid scratching.

This method ensures long-term success in maintaining the colour and sharpness of your tattoo.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best products, improper use of tattoo second skin film can lead to problems. Here are the most common issues and the correct ways to prevent them.

1. Tattoo Film Peeling

Why It Happens:
Peeling often occurs when the skin is not properly cleansed or dried before application, when the film is cut too small, or when it is stretched during placement.

How to Prevent:

• Clean and dry the skin thoroughly.

• Cut the film slightly larger than the tattoo area.

• Avoid stretching the film while applying it.

• Round the corners to reduce lifting.

2. Poor Secure Placement

Why It Happens:
Air bubbles, wrinkles, or loose edges result in insecure placement that leads to early film detachment.

How to Prevent:

• Smooth the film gently from the centre outward to remove bubbles.

• Ensure the edges are fully adhered.

• Avoid applying the film over joints or very flexible areas where movement might cause it to peel.

3. Excessive Sweating Under Film

Why It Happens:
Heavy sweating can accumulate moisture between the film and the skin, weakening adhesion and creating an uncomfortable environment.

How to Prevent:

• Apply the film in a cool, dry setting.

• Avoid physical activity for the first few hours post-application.

• Ensure the film size covers the tattoo well without excessive stretching, allowing the skin to breathe.

4. Inadequate Film Duration

Why It Happens:
Leaving the film on for too long or too short a period reduces effectiveness or increases the risk of infection.

How to Prevent:

• Keep the first application on for up to 24 hours as recommended.

• Use subsequent applications only when the skin is clean and dry.

• Do not leave the film on for multiple days without breaks.

5. Waterproof Tattoo Protection Misuse

Why It Happens:
Some users wrongly assume the film is completely waterproof under all conditions.

How to Prevent:

• The film provides temporary waterproof protection ideal for showers and light exposure.

• Avoid submerging the tattoo in water (e.g., swimming pools or hot tubs) while using the film.

• Remove the film before prolonged water exposure.

Why Choose Dr Pickles Tattoo Film?

When it comes to tattoo aftercare, not all products are created equal. Here’s why Dr Pickles stands out:

• Manufactured in Australia using natural, cruelty-free ingredients.

• Paraben free and vegan-friendly formulas for sensitive skin.

• Specially designed by tattoo artists and skin health experts to protect tattoos without scarring, fading, or excessive itching.

• Backed by customer reviews praising the product’s effectiveness and easy application.

Learn more about our full range of Tattoo Aftercare Products designed to work synergistically.

Conclusion

Knowing how to apply tattoo second skin film correctly is essential for ensuring your tattoo heals safely, retains colour, and remains free from infection. By following the right steps proper skin preparation, correct film size and placement, understanding film duration, and preventing common mistakes like film peeling or excessive sweating you can significantly improve your tattoo aftercare results.

For the best experience, combine Dr Pickles Pickle Film with our specially formulated Tattoo Balm and Foam Wash to ensure a complete care routine.

Want to learn more about our brand and mission? Visit the about us page to discover how Dr Pickles combines passion for tattoo culture with natural skincare expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should I keep the tattoo second skin film on?
The initial application should stay on for up to 24 hours. After removal, you can apply a fresh film if necessary, but always after cleaning and drying the tattoo.

2. Can I reuse the Pickle Film?
Yes, after removing it, you can clean and dry the tattoo area and apply a new piece of Pickle Film for continued protection.

2. What should I do if the film starts peeling?
If peeling begins, remove the film gently and reapply a new piece using the correct size and placement method to ensure full adhesion.

4. Is the Pickle Film waterproof?
The film provides waterproof protection for everyday activities like showering but is not suitable for swimming or long submersion.

5. Can I exercise while wearing the tattoo film?
It is best to avoid intense physical activity for the first few hours after applying the film to prevent sweating under the film and reduce the risk of peeling.