27/09/2023
YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO TATTOO AFTERCARE
So you just got a tattoo — congrats 👏🏽! Time to focus on aftercare. If you want your tattoo to age gracefully, the next few weeks are extra important to make sure it heals properly.
Your tattoo artist will kick-start your aftercare routine as soon as their work is complete. They’ll likely apply a thin layer of petroleum-based ointment over your ink and then cover it with plastic wrap or a bandage. While you might want to gaze at your new addition (or run your fingers over it), a tattoo is basically an open wound, so keeping it covered (and your hands away from it) prevents bacteria from getting into your skin and depending on where the tattoo is on your body, it prevents your clothes from rubbing against it and causing discomfort and irritation.
Do’s and don’ts for basic tattoo aftercare:
DO'S;
1. Do follow your tattoo artist’s instructions. Leave your tattoo covered for several hours to let it absorb any fluid, blood, or excess ink that might leak out. (This is totally normal.)
2. Do remember that a tattoo is a wound. When you’re ready to remove the bandage, treat your tattoo like you would any other skin injury. Wash your hands before touching your tattoo and carefully wash the affected area with soap and water. Always use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
3. Do keep it moist, but let it breathe. Then, cover your whole tattoo with a thin layer of ointment or another approved product (see the list below for more options). If your tattoo is in an area that isn’t covered by clothing, leave it uncovered to let your skin breathe and facilitate healing.
4. Do cover up when you’re in the sun. Opt for loose-fitting, sun-protective clothing until your tattoo heals.
5. Do reach out to your tattoo artist or doctor if you have any unusual swelling, irritation, or other signs of infection or allergic reactions.
DON'TS;
1. Don’t rub your skin dry — pat it gently to avoid irritation.
2. Don’t wear sunscreen until your tattoo is fully healed, because the chemicals or minerals could irritate your broken skin.
3. Don’t pick, scratch, or rub your tattoo until it’s healed. You could cause scarring.
4. Don’t swim, soak in a hot tub, or take a bath until your tattoo has healed completely. Opt for a shower instead. (It’s fine to soak or swim if you can keep your new tattoo out of the water.)
TO BE CONTINUED...