Do’s and don’ts for new tattoo aftercare
Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience. However, it is essential to properly care for your tattoo during the healing process in order for it to turn out well. When it comes to aftercare for your new tattoo, follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure your new ink heals smoothly and without complications.
New Tattoo Aftercare Overview
A new tattoo is essentially an open wound, so treat it as gently as you would a wound. The aftercare period lasts 2 to 6 weeks until the skin regenerates and the tattoo is permanently integrated. Properly cleaning, hydrating, and protecting your new tattoo will prevent infection, fading, and scarring during the vulnerable healing stage.
work closely with you tattoo artist To understand the recommended aftercare routine. Always follow the artist’s specific instructions.
Aftercare tips for a new tattoo
Here are some important things to do when caring for your new tattoo:
1. Leave it covered at first
Leave the original bandage or wrap on for at least 2 hours. This will protect your open tattoo.
2. Wash gently
Gently wash your tattoo two to three times a day using a mild unscented soap and clean hands. Avoid abrasive washcloths. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do not soak the tattoo.
3. Apply a thin layer of ointment.
Follow your artist’s instructions and use an unscented ointment like Aquaphor to keep it moist until it heals. Too much ointment can clog your pores.
See also: A comprehensive guide on how to keep your tattoo bright
4. Follow all artist instructions
Follow the artist’s instructions for ointments, cleaning, bandaging, activity restrictions, etc. Their advice is tailored to your new tattoo.
5. Keep it loose
Wear loose, natural materials that won’t stick to your tattoo. Tight clothing can cause the scab to peel and impede healing.
6. Protect from the sun
Keep your tattoo completely in the shade to avoid exposing it to sunlight as this can cause fading. Once fully healed, use a sunscreen with a high SPF.
7. Watch for signs of infection
Check for widespread redness, discharge, fever, or red streaks, and call your doctor if you’re concerned about an infection.
Things not to do during aftercare for a new tattoo
Here’s what to avoid for new healing tattoos:
1. Don’t wash too much
Washing too aggressively can damage healing skin. Clean gently using only your hands.
2. Do not peel off the scab
The scab will fall off naturally as the skin heals. Picking may cause the ink to come out and cause scratches.
3. Do not soak in water
Avoid baths, pools, and hot tubs until the tattoo is completely sealed and healed after two weeks. These can introduce bacteria.
4. Do not use lotions or creams.
For the first two weeks, use an unscented ointment recommended by your artist. Lotion can cause irritation.
5. Don’t wear tight clothing
Tight clothing can stick to your tattoo and hinder healing. Wear loose-fitting fabrics that are breathable.
6. Do not expose to the sun
The sun can cause your tattoo to blister, scar, and fade. Store completely covered when outdoors.
7. Don’t ignore artist advice
Follow your tattoo artist’s recommendations rather than unreliable internet sources. Your artist knows best.
8. Don’t ignore the warning signs
Watch for signs of infection or allergic reactions, and contact your doctor right away if you are concerned.
Healing Process: What to Expect During Healing
Here’s an overview of what to expect at each stage and how to care for your new tattoo.
1. Days 1-6: As the skin begins to heal, swelling, redness, plasma oozing, and scabs begin to form. Clean gently, apply ointment as directed, and keep covered with a bandage.
2. Days 7-13: A scab forms and the peeling stage makes the tattoo look cloudy and dull. Stop using the ointment once the skin closes. Wash gently and the scab will fall off naturally.
3. Weeks 2-4: Itching begins when a layer of skin forms over the tattoo. If you are concerned about dryness, use an unscented lotion. Don’t scratch or pick the scabs.
4. 1st-2nd month: The tattoo looks hazy, but there are no scabs. Although the top layer feels like it’s healing, the deeper skin still needs care and sunscreen. Apply unscented lotion daily.
5. Months 2-6: The tattoo shows signs of being fully settled into the dermis. Maintain it using sunscreen and moisturizer. Do not use abrasive scrubs or chemicals on the area.
What to use for aftercare
Recommended products to help your tattoo heal properly include:
- Unscented antibacterial soaps such as Dial Gold and Probon
- Unscented lotions such as Lubriderm, Eucerin, and Vani Cream
- Ointments such as Aquaphor, A&D, Vaseline, etc.
Avoid strongly scented products, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, Neosporin, and coconut oil, which can irritate the skin.
signs of infection
Contact your doctor right away if you notice any of the following:
- Enlarged redness and skin warmth at the tattoo site
- Yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge
- Fever, chills, fatigue, nausea
- red streaks extending from tattoo
- excessive pain and swelling
Infections require urgent antibiotic treatment.
conclusion
It’s important to properly care for your new tattoo. Follow the instructions of a professional tattoo artist or consult a well-known tattoo shop such as: Sentient Tattoo Collective ( Walk-in tattoo shop in Tempe, Arizona). Do not pick, rub, or expose to sunlight while healing. With proper gentle cleaning, moisturizing, and protection, your tattoo will heal beautifully and remain vibrant for a lifetime.
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