Every tattoo artists recommends different methods of aftercare. This is my version of aftercare that I have found the most foolproof and have worked best for me and my clients

While the second skin is on...

How to remove the second skin...

What to expect for the next 2 weeks...

After the tattoo session, I would normally apply second skin over the fresh tattoo. Please leave the second skin film on for 2-3 days depending on the size, this would've been discussed with you before you left the studio.

Shower as normal while the film is on, remember not to rub it too much as that will cause the film to roll into itself and fall off.

You do not need to apply any cream while the second skin is still on.

Avoid exercise or generally sweaty situations, we don't want any sweat trapped underneath the film. This can increase the risk of bacterial infection and irritation.

After the initial 2-3 days it's time to take the second skin off.

Take the film off in the shower or under some running warm water, this will help soften up the adhesive and make it easier to remove.

Pull the corners or edges around the the film and stretch it away from the tattoo. This way you are lifting the second skin from underneath instead of peeling, which would be more gentle on the fresh tattoo.

Give the fresh tattoo a firm thorough wash with some soap and rinse well. Make sure the soap is suitable for sensitive skin.

Pad dry with paper towel and moisturise right away.

The healing process typically last around 2 weeks. You should be moisturising your tattoo everyday at least 3 times a day, and make sure your hands and the tattoo is clean before rubbing the cream on it.

At the beginning, your tattoo should peel and itch like a sunburn. Do not itch it or peel it, apply more moisturisers to help with these two symptoms.

Your freshly healed tattoo should feel a little rubbery and shiny. As time passes, the shininess will dull and the skin will feel smoother as the tattoo settle more into the dermis layer of your skin.

Aftercare product recommendation that have always worked for me:

Aveeno moisturiser (great for it's thin texture which helps with absorption yet highly effective at moisturising)

Antibacterial soap of any sort as long as it is suitable for sensitive skin, baby soap will do as well.

That's it, no need for fancy expensive tattoo creams.