Tattoo Aftercare
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
Whether it’s your first or your tenth, taking proper care of your fresh ink is essential to ensure it heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy for years to come. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps and tips for tattoo aftercare, from the moment you leave the studio to the final stages of healing.
The aftercare of getting inked can be divided into three parts: immediate aftercare, ongoing aftercare, and long-term aftercare. We are breaking down each of these aftercare in detail for you so that you are not confused as to how you might want to keep your tattoo fresh and heal the skin.
Before we jump into the aftercare, what can we do during the process of getting inked? A Tattoo Numbing Cream will make the process of getting inked easier and painless.
Table of Contents
Immediate Aftercare (Day 1)
The first aftercare after getting inked is essential and sensitive. You have to be extremely careful with your freshly inked skin for two reasons:
- To allow your skin to heal
- To allow your tattoo to become adjusted to the skin and not become infected.
Leave the Bandage On
Your tattoo artist will cover your freshly inked masterpiece with a bandage or plastic wrap. This protective barrier is crucial in preventing infection and keeping out dirt and debris. Leave it on for at least 2-4 hours or as instructed by your artist.
Wash Your Hands
Before touching your new tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly with mild, unscented soap. Clean hands will minimize the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.
Gently Cleanse the Tattoo
After removing the bandage, use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap to gently cleanse the tattoo. Pat it dry with a clean, disposable paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can irritate the fresh tattoo.
Ongoing Aftercare (Days 1-14)
Once the primary aftercare is done, you have to move on with taking care of your tattoo for the next two weeks. It takes a significant amount of time for a tattoo to heal and you cannot compromise on the same.
Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment
Within the first 24 hours, apply a thin layer of specialized tattoo ointment e.g. Tattoo Numb, or a fragrance-free, antibacterial tattoo numbing cream recommended by your tattoo artist. Do this 2-3 times a day for the first few days. Be cautious not to overdo it; a little goes a long way.
Keep It Moisturized
After the initial days of ointment use, transition to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer. Apply it regularly, but don’t over-saturate your tattoo. Keeping it moisturized helps prevent scabbing and itching.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight for at least two weeks. Sunburn can cause fading and damage to your fresh ink. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a high-SPF sunscreen and keep the tattoo covered.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water promotes overall skin health and aids in the healing process. Hydrated skin is less prone to complications and can help your tattoo heal faster.
Resist the Itch
Tattoos can get itchy during the healing process. However, scratching can damage the tattoo and lead to infection. Instead, gently pat or tap the itchy area to alleviate discomfort.
Avoid Submerging in Water
While your tattoo is healing, avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths. Excessive moisture can soften the scabs prematurely, potentially leading to ink loss or infection.
Long-Term Aftercare (Weeks to Months)
While immediate care for the new tattoo is essential, caring for it in the new future once the tattoo is healed is also essential. We are sharing a few tips that will help you cater to your tattoo in the long run so that your tattoo looks brand new and you don’t contract any infection.
Wear Sunscreen
Even after the initial healing period, make sunscreen a part of your daily routine. UV rays are one of the leading causes of tattoo fading. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your ink.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Good nutrition and hydration support skin health and vibrant ink. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help maintain your tattoo’s appearance.
Keep an Eye on Allergic Reactions
If you notice redness, excessive swelling, pus, or any signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Allergic reactions to tattoo ink or aftercare products are rare but can happen.
Touch-Up and Maintenance
Over time, tattoos may fade or lose some of their sharpness. Consider periodic touch-ups to keep your ink looking its best. Consult your original tattoo artist or another experienced professional for this. Again, the use of numbing creams are good here to ensure you have a Painless Tattoo process.
What to Avoid?
Since we have covered all the different aftercare for your new tattoo, let us talk about what you need to avoid once you have gotten a new tattoo.
Avoid Tight Clothing
During the healing process, tight clothing can rub against your tattoo, irritating it. Opt for loose-fitting attire when possible.
Say No to Picking Scabs
As your tattoo heals, it will form scabs. Do not pick or scratch them. Let them naturally flake off to avoid damaging the tattoo.
Skip the Pool and Sauna
Public pools and saunas are breeding grounds for bacteria. Stay away from them until your tattoo is fully healed.
Winding it up
Getting a tattoo involves more than just budget considerations. While the prospect of getting inked is thrilling, you must be prepared for the long-term commitment. Tattoo aftercare plays a pivotal role in preserving the beauty and longevity of your artwork.
Following these essential guidelines is crucial to ensure your tattoo heals correctly and maintains its vibrancy over the years. It’s essential to recognize that each tattoo may have unique healing requirements. Therefore, always heed the specific instructions provided by your tattoo artist to guarantee the best results.
With patience and diligent care, you can look forward to enjoying your tattoo for a lifetime. Remember that this permanent addition to your body reflects your style and personality, making it all the more worthwhile to invest the time and effort into its proper aftercare. Your commitment will be rewarded with a lasting and vibrant work of art.
