The long life of your tattoo depends upon the care you give it during the critical first few days and weeks. The artist that did your tattoo will have something very definite to say about the care of your new tattoo, and it is probably a good idea to listen to him/her.
Top tattoo artists around the world have helped compile these simple directions for quick healing. However, we urge you to consult your own tattoo artist for any special instructions related to the aftercare of your specific tattoo.
- Do not re-bandage the tattoo.
- Do not apply alcohol.
- Do not rub, scratch or pick at the tattoo.
- Do not expose the tattoo to direct sunlight, swim or soak in sauna, steam bath or bathtub for two weeks.
- Be sure clothing touching your tattoo is clean and soft.
A tattoo is considered minor surgery. It may bleed a bit at first but it will stop within a couple of hours. Most artists recommend the tattoo be kept bandaged overnight or for at least two to five hours. If the gauze sticks to the skin, soak the area with cold water until the gauze loosens, then remove carefully.
You’ll also want to visit your local drugstore and purchase a reputable brand of tattoo aftercare kit (such as Tattoogoo Tattoo Aftercare Kit). A tattoo aftercare kit provides a one stop solution to tattoo aftercare and consists of deep cleansing antibacterial soap, ointment for immediate healing, quick penetrating lotion for moisturizing and enhancement, tattoo color guard fade protection in the outdoor.
|
|
Once the tattoo is exposed, wash it carefully in cold water, gently applying antibacterial soap with fingers (never use a cloth) to remove all surface blood. Rinse with cold water, pat dry with a clean towel, and air-dry for 15 minutes. Then, gently and sparingly apply a thin layer of ointment. Repeat 3 or 4 times a day for 7 to 10 days.
After 5 to 14 days, the tattoo may start to peel. Peeling and flaking of a new tattoo is perfectly normal. Before it actually begins to peel, the tattoo will look like it’s covered with a whitish, cracking film. Then you’ll see white or translucent flakes of old, dead skin start to peel off and some of the flakes may even contain some ink.
Sometimes you can actually see a duplicate image of part of your tattoo peeling off – it’s rather disconcerting, but it is also perfectly normal and there is no need to panic. It’s a lot like a snake shedding its skin. Just add a little lotion (a LITTLE) to the tattoo to help keep it moist and encourage those flakes to come off. Do NOT scratch, pick or peel them. It will all be done in a few days and the color of your tattoo will start to return to normal.
After a few weeks, all scabbing will be gone, but the area may still be sensitive. Continue regular cleaning and application of ointment and lotion, for proper aftercare of your tattoo.
Exposure to the sun is the major cause of tattoo fading, but after a few months you may sunbathe in moderation. Always use a sun block (at least SPF-30 sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection).
Taking care of your tattoo now will keep it healthy and infection free in the long run. If you follow the above advice on how to take care of your tattoo – you won’t have anything to worry about.
Related Posts
Why Do People Get Tattoo?
How are Tattoos Made?
Does Getting a Tattoo Hurt?
Where on my body should I get a tattoo?
The Risks in Getting a Tattoo
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost?
What to Expect When You Get Your Tattoo?
How to Choose a Tattoo Studio?
What to look for in a Tattoo Artist?
Tattoo and Passage of Time
Tattoo Cover Ups
Tattoo Removal










