You've just gotten a new tattoo and now you want to know how to take care of it so that it's as healthy as possible and lasts for years to come! No need to worry – we're here to help. The first thing you should know is that tattoos require extra care and attention in the days after they're applied, and that the quality of your tattoo may depend on how well you take care of it. Read our blog post here for more information on the basics of caring for your
What is the significance of aftercare?
In addition to being a work of art and a method to express your individuality, tattoos have a functional purpose. Due to the fact that the artist uses a needle to implant the ink beneath your skin, it is also considered a medical operation.
You put yourself at risk for scars and infection any time you open your skin in any way.
Taking good care of your tattoo might help you avoid such difficulties and guarantee that your tattoo heals properly.. This is a collaborative effort in which both you and your tattoo artist have equal responsibilities. It is essential that you visit a licenced and reputed tattoo artist and that you also take good care of your new tattoo at home.
Understanding how to properly care for your tattoo, on the other hand, can be difficult. Many states do not require tattoo artists to provide aftercare instructions, and this is especially true in California. The states that do require aftercare instructions frequently defer to the artist in determining what information to include.
Continue reading for a step-by-step guide on caring for your tattoo, as well as advice on which products to use and other useful information.
It all starts with choosing the correct tattoo business in order to minimise the danger of infection from bacteria or viruses.
You should only put your trust in establishments that are totally licenced, hygienic, and experienced. Do-it-yourself kits, stick-and-poke tattoos, and incorrect aftercare items are all potential sources of dangerous infections, especially if performed outside of a sterile environment.
Cheaper does not necessarily equate to better, and occasionally a few additional dollars can make a significant impact.
Whether you have an existing medical condition such as eczema, diabetes or an infectious disease such as HIV, hepatitis, or haemophilia, you should tell your tattoo artist about it. These diseases may raise your chances of developing problems or contracting an infection.
This is not to indicate that the tattoo artist will refuse to tattoo you, but it does mean that they will need to take extra measures when tattooing you. When it comes to recognising the dangers of getting a tattoo and avoiding infection, the best policy is to be upfront and honest.
If you are on drugs such as Accutane or blood thinners, you should consult with your doctor before participating.
Do's and Don'ts to Keep in Mind
During the healing process, it is extremely essential that you use clean towels, bedding, and clothes.
Showering is acceptable; however, please DO NOT immerse your tattoo for at least 2 weeks after getting it. This means no swimming, bathing, or submerging your tattoo in water for an extended amount of time during your recovery.
It is recommended that you avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo for at least 2 weeks after it has healed completely. For the remainder of your life, we recommend that you use a sunblock (minimum SPF 50) to your tattoo whenever you are exposed to direct sunlight for the rest of your life. The sun will surely cause damage to your tattoo and shorten its usefulness over the course of time.
Wearing loose clothing (ideally cotton) and avoiding constraining accessories such as bra straps and tight waistbands over a new tattoo will help to keep the tattoo from bleeding. Clothing that is unclean, sweaty, or scratchy should be avoided because they might cause healing issues.
Aftercare Suggestions
Only clean hands should come into contact with it.
Most tattoo artists have their own set of aftercare instructions, which they provide to clients. However, there is one piece of advise that they all agree on: only clean hands should be used to touch your tattoo. “The most crucial step would be to thoroughly clean your hands before cleaning your tattoos,” Carter advises. ” “[I recommend that] you pay attention to the vocal instructions [from your tattoo artist] first, and then refer to the written instructions after that,” says the artist. Also, keep in mind that washing your hands shouldn't be a quick three-second rinse once you've finished. Make a fist with your hands and rub them together for as long as it takes to recite the alphabet (or for whatever jingle lasts 20 seconds or more).
Removing the bandage and washing only with antibacterial soap is recommended.
The original bandage that your tattoo artist uses to wrap you up after your ink session can be removed within two to three hours after completion, or for as long as your tattoo artist suggests after the session is completed. Do not re-bandage the wound. After the first couple of hours, the plasma from the original tattoo may come to the surface, and it is then necessary to clean the tattoo and allow it to air.
Make use of antibacterial soap, such as Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Liquid Soap ($17) or other unscented antibacterial liquid, to clean the tattoo. Avoid using any form of fabric to clean the tattoo since it will exfoliate the region, which should be avoided because it is still considered a wound. Following that, rinse the area with warm to moderate temperature water and pat it dry with a towel. Allow for at least 10 minutes of resting time before proceeding with the next step.
Apply Ointment to the affected area
Carter advises that you should use an ointment that has been advised by the tattoo artist who performed the work. According to him, “every artist has their unique aftercare ointment—Shea butter, synthetic skin, lotions, and so on.” The ointment should not be applied excessively to the tattoo because this could clog the pores and cause an itchy rash, which would surely interfere with the healing process. Some tattoo sites even recommend that you leave the region free of ointment after the initial cleansing or that you only apply a very thin layer of ointment after the first cleansing.
The use of Aquaphor ($4) during the first two to three days of recovery is always recommended, according to Lavriv. This product provides the appropriate quantity of moisture without feeling heavy or suffocating, and it also helps to reduce peeling and flaking. Remember that Aquaphor contains petroleum, so if you're looking for vegan alternatives, she recommends Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Maintenance Cream ($20), which is made of Shea, mango, and aloe butters as well as coconut and vitamin E oils; it's excellent for using before, during, and after the healing process. Once your tattoo has begun to heal, you can move to unscented lotions, such as Eucerin Original Healing Lotion ($9), or experiment with natural shea body butter to keep your masterpiece moisturised until it is completely healed and restored.
The process of washing your tattoo between two to five times a day, followed by a light layer of ointment, should be repeated for the first three to four days after getting your tattoo. Carter notes that a sufficient amount of air is beneficial to the ink during the healing process, and that it is therefore vital to ensure that the skin has adequate ventilation. On the first night, it's customary to wrap the region with plastic wrap to prevent it from sticking to your bedding; nevertheless, after that, make certain that the design is clear of obstructions and receives adequate ventilation.
How to Take Care of a Tattoo
You've just gotten a new tattoo and now you want to know how to take care of it so that it's as healthy as possible and lasts for years to come! No need to worry – we're here to help. The first thing you should know is that tattoos require extra care and attention in the days after they're applied, and that the quality of your tattoo may depend on how well you take care of it. Read our blog post here for more information on the basics of caring for your
How to clean a new tattoo
If you’ve just had your brand new tattoo, the last thing you want to do it scratch at it. That will only make the healing process take longer. Avoid getting any lotions or oils on your new tattoo because these can clog up the pores and slow down the healing process. The best thing to do is give it a gentle wash with soap and water when you get home, pat dry with a towel, and apply something like Vaseline to keep it from becoming dry or getting too much air exposure.
What to do if a tattoo feels too tight or too loose
If you have a tattoo that feels too tight or too loose, there are steps to take to fix the problem. One way to make the tattoo feel looser is by wrapping it in plastic wrap for five minutes. You can also soak your skin with warm water for fifteen minutes to help it shrink. To tighten the skin around the tattoo, use an ice pack, then apply pressure on the area.
How to care for a tattoo while working out
In the beginning, your skin will be delicate and you'll likely experience some itching or peeling. Keep in mind that your tattoo needs to be protected from the sun as much as possible for the first few weeks after getting it. You can cover it with an SPF lotion or sunscreen to keep the colors looking vibrant and prevent fading. This is especially important if you're working out outside.
When Can You Get Your Tattoo Wet?
Your tattoo will need to be re-applied with ointment for a few hours after it gets wet because water can cause the old ink to flake off. Don't worry, as long as you keep your tattoo covered and re-apply it right away, there won't be any problems.
How to correctly wash your tattoo
It is important to wash your tattoo with a mild soap and lukewarm water. The water should be clean and free of any dirt, oils, or other contaminants. This will help reduce the risk of infection for your new tattoo. You should also avoid using anything that may irritate the area such as rubbing alcohol or certain types of soaps.
What Happens Over Time If You Don’t Take Care of a Tattoo?
If you don't take care of your tattoo, scarring can occur along with an increase in the size. A tattoo that has not been taken care of will also fade faster and won’t stay vibrant for as long.
Which products are best for your tattoo?
A tattoo is an ink design applied to the skin, often in intricate detail. They can last for years if cared for properly, but improper care will result in fading and even removal of the design. The best way to care for your tattoo is with a gentle soap or body wash that doesn't cause irritation. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without encouraging breakouts.
What should I do to take care of my tattoo after I get one?
After getting your tattoo, it is very important to keep it clean. Keep an eye on the pain, and be sure to remove any bandage if necessary. If you're feeling sick or have a fever, it's best to see a doctor.
How long will it take for a tattoo to heal?
A tattoo typically takes two weeks to heal and fade. The skin will peel and scab for a few days while it heals, but this is nothing to worry about. It sounds gross, but the scabs are really just your skin regenerating after being punctured by the needle. Once the scabs have fallen off, your tattoo will have faded significantly.
How can I tell if my tattoo is healing well?
If your tattoo is not healing well, it may be infected. This can happen if you do not wash your hands before touching the tattoo or if you touch other infected areas of your body. In the case that your tattoo is infected, you should stay out of the sun and apply antibiotic ointment to it until the infection clears up. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated and eat a healthy diet for a faster recovery.
The Importance of Following the Aftercare Guidelines
Tattoos are meant to be timeless, but the only thing that's timeless is the care you put into it. To avoid regretting your tattoo in ten years, you need to know how to take care of it properly–and that starts with following the aftercare guidelines.
