10 Things to Avoid After You Get a Tattoo
Most new tattoos take around 10-21 days to heal. In the meantime, there are some things you should avoid to keep your tattoo happy and healing!
Here are 10 things to avoid after you get a new tattoo.
1. Touch your tattoo with dirty hands
You should never touch your tattoo unless you are washing it or putting a tattoo healing ointment on it. Before touching your new tattoo, it's crucial to wash your hands thoroughly. This simple step helps prevent the introduction of harmful bacteria, promoting a clean and infection-free healing process. By following this tip you will help keep your tattoo healthy and looking great and reduce the risk of complications.
2. Peeling or Picking
I know, I know….new tattoos can be ITCHY and develop small scabs and the urge to pick and scratch is REAL, but I cannot say it enough: allow your tattoo to peel naturally and resist the urge to pick at scabs or peeling skin. Doing so can seriously damage your tattoo by potentially causing scarring and opening your wound to infection, which will impact the quality of your tattoo. Patience during the healing process is paramount, as it allows your tattoo to fully recover and heal as perfectly as possible!
3. Excessive Sun Exposure
Your best first option is to plan well when booking your tattoo. Do you have a sunny vacation coming up? Maybe wait until after your trip to book your tattoo. If you are going to be outside after getting a new tattoo, especially during the summer; shield your tattoo from direct sunlight, especially in the initial healing stages. Exposure to UV rays can cause fading of colors and potential damage to the delicate healing skin, so protect your tattoo with clothing. Taking precautions against sun exposure preserves the vibrancy and longevity of your tattoo, ensuring it looks as vibrant as the day it was inked.
4. Submerging in Water
To ensure proper healing, avoid submerging your tattoo in water, whether in swimming pools, ponds, lakes, the ocean, hot tubs, or baths. Quick showers are recommended, and maintaining a dry environment around your tattoo is essential for optimal recovery. By being mindful of water exposure, you safeguard your tattoo against potential infections and complications that can arise from prolonged moisture. If you do submerge your tattoo in water, it is recommended that you gently wash your tattoo with warm water and antibacterial soap, patting dry with a clean towel afterward.
5. Tight Clothing
When your tattoo is healing you want to opt for loose, breathable clothing over your tattoo to prevent friction and irritation. Tight clothing rubbing against the tattooed area can impede the healing process and compromise the look of your healed tattoo. Choosing the right clothing promotes a comfortable healing environment, allowing your tattoo to settle and showcase its details without any issues that will affect healing. I also recommend that you wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your tattoo appointment in the first place!
6. Applying Irritating Substances
Steer clear of harsh chemicals, ointments, or creams not recommended by your tattoo artist. Adhering strictly to the provided aftercare instructions ensures that you use products suitable for your tattoo's healing needs. I recommend only allowing a mild antibacterial soap, Aquaphor, and Mad Rabbit Soothing Gel to come into contact with your tattoo as it heals.
NEVER PUT SOMETHING ON YOUR TATTOO AS IT IS HEALING WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING YOUR TATTOO ARTIST. There are many helpful healing ointments on the market that are great for healing a wound, but horrible for healing tattoos! By following these guidelines, you provide the necessary care for your tattoo, allowing it to heal efficiently and maintain its intended appearance.
7. Excessive Sweating
While you might be a swole gym rat, while your tattoo is healing refrain from engaging in intense physical activities that result in excessive sweating. Sweat can potentially irritate the healing tattoo, so I encourage you to avoid activities that induce profuse sweating during the initial healing period. By moderating your physical exertion, you create an environment conducive to optimal healing, reducing the risk of complications.
8. Excessive Drinking (or taking Aspirin/Blood Thinners)
Limit alcohol consumption during the initial healing period, as alcohol can thin the blood. While your tattoo is healing you want to have the healthiest blood possible supplying everything your body needs to heal the tattoo area. Additionally, any medications that thin the blood (Aspirin) should be avoided if possible. Responsible alcohol and medication intake contributes to your overall well-being and aids in the successful healing of your tattoo.
MEDICAL NOTE: If a doctor has prescribed you blood thinners please let your tattoo artist know prior to your appointment and NEVER stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting with your general care physician.
9. Germs
Maybe the number one thing to avoid during your tattoo healing time is GERMS! I know, they are unavoidable, but hear me out. It is so important to maintain the cleanliness of your tattoo by avoiding exposure to dirty or contaminated environments. Keeping the tattooed area clean minimizes the risk of infections, contributing to a healthy and uneventful healing process. You should assume that anything that touches your tattoo other than freshly washed hands is dirty. While your tattoo is healing remain aware of what your tattoo comes into contact with and always wash with antibacterial soap if you believe that your tattoo has come into direct contact with germs.
PRO TIP: For some reason friends and family (and even strangers) will instinctively want to touch your new tattoo when you show it off. Before showing someone your new tattoo I recommend letting them know that it is a new tattoo that is still healing and cannot be touched. This can avoid a potentially awkward interaction. If someone does touch your tattoo without washing their hands, I recommend washing your tattoo immediately.
10. Skipping Aftercare Instructions
Diligently follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. I have taken multiple medical certifications and an intense tattoo masterclass, all in an attempt to be the most informed tattoo artist I can be so that I can give you the best advice and guidance possible. Furthermore, I have spent a considerable amount of time refining and perfecting my Tattoo Aftercare Instructions. This routine involves cleaning, moisturizing, and adhering to specific guidelines to optimize the healing of your tattoo and preserve its longevity. By adhering to the aftercare regimen, you actively participate in the well-being of your tattoo, ensuring it heals properly and maintains its aesthetic appeal over time. Skipping this crucial step can undo all of the hard work you went through during your tattoo appointment.
