Caring for Your New Tattoo
How do I care for my new tattoo?
Congratulations on your new tattoo! Getting a tattoo is a big decision and a significant investment in art that will last a lifetime. Taking care of your new tattoo is crucial to ensure its longevity and vibrancy. This guide is written for the tattoo expert and novice alike, here are some tips to help you care for your new tattoo.
Washing
It is important to wash your new tattoo with fragrance-free antibacterial soap to keep it clean and free from infections. Gently wash the tattoo with your clean hands using lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the tattoo and delay the healing process. After washing, pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel. I recommend washing your tattoo twice daily, in the morning and the evening. This can be done during a shower. You should also wash your tattoo after it comes into contact with a dirty surface.
Moisturizing
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer to keep the tattoo hydrated. Use a fragrance-free and dye-free moisturizer to avoid irritating the tattoo. I recommend using an extremely thin layer of Aquaphor. Gently apply the moisturizer to the tattooed area without rubbing it in too hard. Do this a few times a day, especially after washing the tattoo.
Avoid Touching
I know, I know, you just got a new tattoo and it is SO EXCITING…you just want to poke it and touch it as you show it off to your friends and family. DON’T TOUCH IT!! Avoid touching your new tattoo as it can introduce bacteria and germs that can cause infections. If you must touch it, ensure that your hands are clean and sanitized. For some reason, a lot of people want to touch your tattoo while showing them for the first time. Feel free to gently and politely tell them that it is a fresh wound and still healing before showing them so that they understand it is a no-touch zone!
Avoid Submerging in Water
Avoid submerging your tattoo in water, especially in a pool, lake, pond, bath, or hot tub. Submerging the tattoo in water can cause the ink to bleed and fade, and impede the healing process leading to a poorly healed tattoo. Remember what your skinned knee looked like after a day in the pool during your childhood? Ew! We don’t want that happening to your tattoo!
Avoid Sun Exposure
Finally, avoid exposing your new tattoo to direct sunlight as it can cause the tattoo to fade and cause skin damage. Wear loose clothing that covers the tattoo and use a high SPF sunscreen when you are out in the sun.
Typical Healing Time
It typically takes 10-21 days for a tattoo to fully heal. Some people experience swelling of skin at and around the tattoo for a few days following the tattoo procedure. Some tenderness and itchiness are normal.
Causes for Concern
Tattoos breach the skin which means that skin infections and other complications, while not normal, are possible. Here are some signs you should text or call your tattoo artist immediately.
Prolonged redness and swelling
Rash or bumpy skin around your tattoo
Tattoo is oozing plasma after a couple of days
You feel feverish and unwell
These are all signs and concerns that your tattoo may have become infected. Don’t fear though, an infection of your tattoo can be quickly taken care of by medical professionals if proper action is taken.
Don’t ever hesitate to contact your tattoo artist. They are your biggest champion and resource! Trust me, they want your tattoo to heal as perfectly as you want it to!
In conclusion, taking care of your new tattoo is essential to ensure its longevity and vibrancy. Follow these tips to keep your tattoo clean, hydrated, and beautiful. Remember, your tattoo is an investment, and it is vital to take care of it to keep it looking its best for years to come.
