Getting a new tattoo comes with plenty of excitement, but it also comes with questions. One of the most common questions we hear is:

"Can I shower while wearing Saniderm?"

The short answer is yes. In fact, Saniderm is designed to make everyday life easier while your tattoo heals, including allowing you to shower without exposing your fresh tattoo to direct streams of water, different chemicals in your shampoos & soaps, etc. (try Saniderm Foam Soap)

Here's what you need to know.

Yes - You Can Shower with Saniderm On

Saniderm is a waterproof, breathable tattoo aftercare bandage designed to protect your fresh tattoo (open wound) during the most important stage of healing. Once it's properly applied, it creates a protective barrier that helps keep out dirt, bacteria, and other outside contaminants while allowing your tattoo to heal naturally with the body.

That means you can shower without worrying about soaking your tattoo, fading it, causing dryness or scabbing, or washing away the healing environment beneath the bandage.

While the tattoo itself remains protected, it's still important to shower carefully.

Keep Your Showers Short

Although Saniderm is waterproof, it's best to keep showers reasonably short.

Long, hot showers can gradually weaken the adhesive around the edges of the bandage. If water begins working underneath the seal, the bandage can lose its effectiveness and may need to be removed earlier than planned.

A quick daily shower is perfectly fine. Spending extended periods under hot water is not recommended during the healing process. Your tattoo will thank you.

Avoid Extreme High-Pressure Water

Try not to point the showerhead directly at your tattoo for an extended period.

While Saniderm is designed to stay securely in place, constant high-pressure water can stress the adhesive, especially around the edges.

Instead, let water flow naturally over your body without directly blasting the bandaged area.

Skip Baths, Hot Tubs, and Extended Swimming

Showering is one thing. Fully submerging your tattoo is another.

Even with Saniderm applied, you should avoid:

• Bathtubs
• Hot tubs
• Swimming pools
• Lakes
• Rivers
• The ocean

Submerging the bandage for long periods increases the chances of water working underneath the adhesive. Once water gets trapped beneath the bandage, bacteria can also become trapped, increasing the risk of irritation or infection.

Until your tattoo has fully healed, showers are the safest option.

"What If Water Gets Under My Tattoo Bandage?

If you notice water has made its way underneath your Saniderm bandage, it's generally best to remove the bandage. Depending on where you're at in the healing process, you could reapply another bandage. Consult your artist.

A properly sealed bandage should only contain your body's natural healing fluids. If outside water enters the dressing, it creates an environment you no longer want sitting against your healing tattoo.

After removing the bandage, continue caring for your tattoo according to your artist's aftercare instructions. (Saniderm is Artist-Preferred, with a full suite of products designed for every stage of the heal.)

Dry It Off Gently

After your shower, gently pat the outside of the bandage dry using a clean towel.

Avoid rubbing the bandage aggressively, as this can loosen the edges over time.

If the edges begin lifting enough that contaminants can enter beneath the dressing, it's time to remove or replace the bandage according to your artist's instructions.

Enjoy Your Normal Routine

One of the biggest advantages of modern tattoo healing is being able to continue much of your normal daily routine without constantly worrying about your tattoo.

With proper application, Saniderm helps protect your tattoo while you work, sleep, exercise (within your artist's recommendations), and yes, even shower.

As always, follow your tattoo artist's specific aftercare instructions, since every tattoo and every client is unique.

Your tattoo is a long-term investment. Taking a few extra precautions during the first week of healing helps preserve the artwork you'll enjoy for years to come.