The dos and don’ts of aftercare for your new tattoo
Getting a new tattoo can be an enjoyable experience. However, for your tattoo to heal successfully, it is essential that you take proper care of it during the healing process. Follow these dos and don’ts of new tattoo aftercare to ensure that your new tattoo heals smoothly and without complications.
Overview of aftercare for your new tattoo
A new tattoo is essentially an open wound, so treat it gently as such. The aftercare period lasts 2-6 weeks while your skin regenerates and your tattoo becomes permanent. Properly cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting your injured tattoo will help prevent infection, fading, and scarring during the healing period.
Working closely together Tattoo Artist Familiarize yourself with the recommended aftercare instructions. Always follow your artist’s specific instructions.
Aftercare tips for your new tattoo
Here are some important things to do when caring for your new tattoo:
1. Cover it up first
Leave the original bandage or wrap on for at least two hours, as this will protect your open tattoo.
2. Wash gently
Gently wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day with mild, fragrance-free soap and clean hands. Do not use abrasive towels. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do not submerge your tattoo in water.
3. Apply a thin layer of ointment
To keep your skin moisturized while healing, follow your artist’s instructions and use a fragrance-free ointment, such as Aquaphor, as too much ointment can clog your pores.
reference: A comprehensive guide to keeping your tattoo bright
4. Follow the artist’s instructions
Follow your artist’s instructions about ointments, cleanings, bandages, activity restrictions, etc. Their advice will be tailored to your new tattoo.
5. Relax
Wear loose, natural fabrics that won’t stick to your tattoo. Tight clothing can cause scabs to peel off and hinder healing.
6. Protect from the sun
Make sure to keep your tattoo completely out of the sun and avoid exposure to sunlight which can cause fading, and once it is fully healed, use a sunscreen with a high SPF rating.
7. Watch for signs of infection
Watch for any spreading redness, discharge, fever, or red lines and contact your doctor if you’re worried about infection.
What not to do when caring for your new tattoo
Here are some things to avoid with your new healing tattoo:
1. Don’t wash too much
Washing too vigorously can damage the healing skin, so wash gently with your hands only.
2. Don’t pick at scabs
The scabs will fall off naturally as the skin heals. Scratching may remove the ink and leave a scar.
3. Do not immerse in water
Avoid baths, swimming pools, and hot tubs until your tattoo is completely closed and healed after two weeks, as they can introduce bacteria.
4. Don’t use lotions or creams
For the first two weeks, use a fragrance-free ointment recommended by your artist, as using lotions can cause irritation.
5. Don’t wear tight clothing
Tight clothing can stick to your tattoo and hinder healing, so wear loose, breathable fabrics.
6. Avoid Sun Exposure
The sun can cause your tattoo to blister, blemish and fade, so be sure to cover it up completely when outdoors.
7. Don’t ignore the artist’s advice
Follow your tattoo artist’s recommendations rather than unreliable internet information – they know best.
8. Don’t ignore the warning signs
Watch for signs of infection or an allergic reaction and contact your doctor immediately if you are concerned.
The healing process: what happens during healing
Here’s an overview of what to expect at each stage and how to care for your new tattoo.
1. Days 1-6: As the skin begins to heal, it will begin to swell, become red, ooze plasma, and form a scab. Gently cleanse, apply ointment as directed, and cover with a bandage.
2. Days 7 to 13: The tattoo will look cloudy and dull as the scab forms and falls off. Stop using the ointment once the skin has closed. Wash gently and allow the scab to fall off naturally.
3. Weeks 2-4: As a layer of skin forms over the tattoo, itching will begin. If dryness occurs, use a fragrance-free lotion. Do not scratch or pick at the scabs.
4. 1-2 months: The tattoo will look blurred but not scabbed over. The surface layer will appear healed, but the deeper skin still needs care and sun protection. Apply fragrance-free lotion daily.
5. 2nd-6th month: You will see signs that your tattoo has fully set into the dermis. Use sunscreen and moisturizers to maintain your tattoo. Avoid applying abrasives or chemicals to the area.
What to use for aftercare
Recommended products to help your tattoo heal properly include:
Fragrance-free antibacterial soaps like Dial Gold or Provon; fragrance-free lotions like Lubriderm, Eucerin, or Vanicream; ointments like Aquaphor, A&D, or Vaseline
Avoid strongly scented products, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, neosporin, or coconut oil, which can irritate the skin.
Signs of infection
If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:
Redness and skin heat at the tattoo siteA spreading yellow, green, or foul-smelling dischargeFever, chills, fatigue, or nauseaA red line extending from the tattooExcessive pain and swelling
Infections require urgent antibiotic treatment.
Conclusion
It is very important to take proper care of your new tattoo. Follow the instructions of a professional tattoo artist or consult a reputable tattoo shop about the aftercare of your new tattoo. Sentient Tattoo Collective (a Walk-in tattoo shops in Tempe, Arizona). Avoid scratching, scrubbing and exposure to sunlight while healing. With proper gentle cleaning, hydration and protection, your tattoo will heal beautifully and remain vibrant for a lifetime.
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