If you are preparing to get a new tattoo then it’s necessary to take good care of your ink. Aftercare is a must for a new tattoo. 

I’ve seen plenty of people getting into skin trouble because they did not follow proper aftercare. A new tattoo needs good care to heal in a good way, but unapt care will make your tattoo dull and lifeless.

What is tattoo aftercare?

Tattoo aftercare is a way of looking after your skin and the tattoo. A correct practice will aid your skin and tattoo.

What to check before getting inked?

Know your tattoo studio by checking online reviews. The tattoo studio must follow all safety precautions  and the artist should be certified to do his job.

Image source – Mad Rabbit

Steps to Follow for Tattoo Aftercare:

Don’t remove the bandage

Your new ink will be covered by the artist before you leave the tattoo parlour. Remove the cover after 24 hours and wash the new ink water and antiseptic soap.

Moisturizing

Hydrating your tattoo after washing is important. Moisturizing keeps the skin dampened and keeps away from scabbing. Use a scentless moisturizer and never over do. Two times of cleaning and moisturizing are enough for new ink.

No Direct Sunlight or Swimming

The new ink should be kept away from direct sunlight for 15 days and you should keep away from swimming. Avoid saunas and long times under the shower and prevent direct water from hitting your inked skin. Hot water showers should also be avoided. 

Avoid Scratching the Tattoo

Itching is common in tattooed skin and should be avoided. Peeling is also a fragment of the healing procedure and the skin should not be picked.  itching and peeling cause infections and must be avoided. Apply a cold compress to calm itching. 

Wear Over Sized Clothing

Wear relaxed clothing that is good for the tattoo. Tight clothes may rub with your ink which may lead to irritation. 

Wait for the Results Patiently

A simple design may need 30 to 45 days to heal and a detailed design will take more time. Don’t worry if you feel that your tattoo is looking dull and it will show its true shades only after healing properly.

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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 be used after healing and the best is 30-50 SPF. Sunscreen saves tattoos from getting dull. Petroleum jelly should never be used. 

Possible Issues After a New Tattoo-

Tattoo Regret

Tattoo regret is when you regret or don’t like the tattoo you got inked. Many people who have multiple tattoos have not liked at least one of their ink. It’s always advised not to rush in deciding your ink. The tattoo removal can be painful so its adviced to take time in deciding.

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 problems after many years of getting inked.

When should you see a doctor?

Fever, increasing pain, leakage, redness, warm skin and odour are the issues that need medical aid.

Best Tattoo Aftercare Products

Many products are available in the market that are just for tattoo care. Your new tattoo requires a good antibacterial soap for cleaning and an antibiotic ointment for healing. You can use a water-based lotion instead of ointment from the fifth day. 

A good tattoo will look like new for years with proper aftercare. Go along with all the details in the blog and keep smiling with a bright tattooo 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.