How Should I Care For My New Tattoo?

Did your tattoo artist give any specific advice regarding the after care?

Did the artist apply an antibacterial ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage?

Did you wash your hands before removing the bandage and cleaning the tattoo?

Did you wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap?

Did you dry the tattoo using a clean paper tower or air dry it?

Did you apply an antibacterial cream after drying the tattoo?

Do you follow a routine to wash and moisturize the tattoo on a daily basis?

Follow carefully what the artist told you as the aftercare method may vary according to the area where the tattoo has been drawn. Write down the advice and follow it closely.

Leave the covering on for 2-3 hours. Once the tattoo is complete, your tattoo artist will clean the area, apply an antibacterial ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage or plastic. Once you have left the tattoo parlor, resist the temptation to open the bandage. The bandage is there to protect your tattoo from dirt and bacteria and should be left on for up to 3 hours before you remove it.

Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Instead of soaking your tattoo in water, cup your hands together and scoop lukewarm water over it. Use a mild, unscented liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap to rub the tattoo gently with your fingers, removing all traces of blood, plasma, or leaked ink. This will help to prevent the tattoo from scabbing too soon.

Let the tattoo air dry or pat it dry with a clean paper towel. While it's best to let your skin air dry after the tattoo has been cleaned, you can also use a clean, dry paper towel to gently blot the tattoo until it's dry. Avoid rubbing the tattoo with the paper towel to avoid irritating your skin.

Apply a non-scented antibacterial cream. Once your tattoo is fully dry, apply a little moisturizing ointment, preferably an all-natural aftercare, to the tattoo. Make sure to apply only a very thin layer and pat it in gently until it's absorbed by the skin. If you're not sure what kind of ointment to use, ask your tattoo artist what they recommend for your skin.

Wash and moisturize your tattoo daily until the scabs are gone. You should continue to wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water until it's fully healed. This can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo.

Other ways to make the tattoo heal properly is to avoid scratching or picking at your tattoo, keeping your tattoo out of direct sunlight, keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, wear clean, wearing loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating your tattoo and avoid strenuous workouts.