Tattoo Aftercare
Aftercare for Your New Tattoo
Follow these steps while your new tattoo heals to help keep it looking fresh.
Remove the bandage after 24 hours or specified by your Artist. Wash your tattoo gently with soap and water. Use fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to wash your tattoo. Be careful not to scrub the skin or rub it dry. Do not use a washcloth to dry your tattoo, as they can harbor bacteria. Instead, gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer or ointment. Use a moisturizer or ointment that is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging). Be careful not to apply too much moisturizer or ointment, as this can make your tattoo more likely to get infected.
Avoid swimming and sun exposure. Avoid swimming and sun exposure for at least two weeks after getting a tattoo. This will help prevent the tattoo from getting infected and will help it heal faster.
Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking plenty of fluids will help keep your skin hydrated and will help your tattoo heal faster.
Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep will help your body heal faster and will help your tattoo heal faster.
Avoid touching your tattoo. Avoid touching your tattoo as much as possible. This will help prevent the tattoo from getting infected.
See your doctor if you have any concerns. If you have any concerns about your tattoo, go see a doctor. This is especially important if you develop any discoloration, swelling, or drainage from your tattoo lasting longer than three days.
Additional Info
Take cool to lukewarm showers. Scalding hot water will not only hurt but may fade the ink. Wear a physical blocker sunscreen with at least 7% zinc oxide sunscreen during the daylight hours and/or cover it up.
If your tattoo scabs a bit or develops hard layers, don’t worry. It’s normal. But never pick scratch, or peel it. You could get an infection or remove the ink.
If you think your tattoo is infected, or isn’t healing properly, go see your doctor as soon as possible.