If you’re planning to get a tattoo or you’ve just had one done, it’s important to understand how to take care of it properly. Whether it’s your first piece or one of many, aftercare isn’t optional. It’s essential.

I’ve seen plenty of people, including myself at one point, get excited about their new tattoo but run into problems simply because they didn’t follow proper aftercare steps. A tattoo may look great when it’s fresh, but without the right care, it can heal poorly and lose its quality over time.

What is tattoo aftercare?

Tattoo aftercare means the steps taken to safeguard your new ink and keep issues like infections or irritations at bay. If your tattoo is a minimalistic design or a big tattoo for the entire back, proper aftercare is a must. You should always leave the tattoo parlour with clean ink, and before that, check the legal age for getting inked in your state and country. 

What to check before getting inked?

Researching the tattoo parlour and the artist is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. Take time to read online reviews to ensure the artist follows proper hygiene and safety practices, especially if this is your first tattoo or you’re visiting a new studio.

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Steps to Follow for Tattoo Aftercare:

Don’t remove the bandage

The tattoo artist will cover your new tattoo before you leave the parlour. Don’t remove the bandage or the wrap for at least 24 hours after your ink. Follow the instructions of your tattoo artist, as fresh tattoos must be kept away from dirt and dust. Remove the bandage with clean hands and then wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap and water.

Moisturizing

Moisturizing your new tattoo is very crucial after cleaning your new ink. Moisturizing keeps the skin hydrated and avoids scabbing. Use a good non-fragrance moisturizer, and please don’t over moisturize your tattooed skin. Two times of cleaning and moisturizing are enough for new ink.

No Direct Sunlight or Swimming

The new ink should not be exposed to direct sunlight for two weeks, and even swimming should be avoided, as chlorine is not good for your new tattoo. Hot water baths can fade the ink, so avoid them. Also, avoid saunas and long times under the shower, and prevent direct water from hitting your inked skin. 

Avoid Scratching the Tattoo

Itching in the tattooed area and peeling of the skin are possible during the healing process. Itching the skin should be avoided because it may cause scarring. Peeling is also a part of the healing process, and the skin should not be picked, as it could increase the risk of infection and may lead to tattoo scarring. Apply a cold compress to soothe itching. 

Wear Loose Clothes

Always wear loose, comfortable clothes for your new tattoo; tight clothes may stick to or rub your newly tattooed skin, which may lead to irritation or cause damage to the new ink.

Wait for the Results Patiently

An average tattoo takes 4 to 6 weeks to heal, but a complex, detailed or big design may take longer to heal. You may feel that your tattoo is getting dull. You should not worry, as the tattoo shows its true vibrancy only after complete healing. 

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Keep a Close Watch for Infection Symptoms

If you take good care of your new ink, there is a rare chance of infection, but you should keep a close watch for infections. Signs of infections generally are discharge, redness, swelling or heat near the tattooed skin.

When to Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen should only be used after your tattoo is completely healed, and the ideal sunscreen is 30-50 SPF. 

Sunscreen prevents tattoo fading away and keeps them fresh for years. Never apply petroleum jelly to your new tattoo, as it can damage it. 

Possible Issues After a New Tattoo-

Tattoo Regret

Tattoo regret is when you regret or don’t like the tattoo you got inked. A large percentage of people who have multiple tattoos have regretted at least one of them. It’s always recommended that you don’t rush to get anything on your skin. The tattoo removal process is painful, so be careful, as your likes and preferences may change.

Ink Reactions

Ink reactions may occur in some individuals even after good tattoo care because of specific pigments present in the tattoo ink, which may cause rashes.

Delayed Reactions

Some individuals may get a tattoo reaction months or even years after getting a tattoo. Individuals may develop skin issues over the years that may cause tattoo reactions.

When should you see a doctor?

You should see a doctor or a medical specialist if you have a fever, pain that keeps increasing, regular or significant leakage from the new tattoo, odour, redness that keeps expanding, and consistently warm skin in the tattoo area. But that’s rare, and most of the tattoos that are taken care of heal without any issues.

Best Tattoo Aftercare Products

Many products are available in the market that are just for tattoo care. Always consult your tattoo artist before using any products. To begin with, your fresh tattoo needs a good antibacterial soap for cleaning and an antibiotic ointment for initial healing. On the fifth day, you can use a water-based lotion instead of ointment. 

In the end, a good tattoo will keep shining like new for years if the aftercare is perfect. Follow all the instructions in the blog and keep smiling with a vibrant tattoo.