Your tattoo is a part of your body forever.
Tattoo aftercare can be confusing and daunting for people who have just had their first ink.
Getting your first tattoo is an exciting process, and the minute you see the amazing handiwork of the artist, you might find yourself glowing.
Once you’ve survived the onslaught of needles on your skin, your artist will give you a set of clear instructions regarding the next steps.
It is vitally important you follow these instructions as these will ensure the new art on your skin doesn’t turn into a mess.
But for those who are still a bit unsure, fear not! In this article, DESIblitz offers you eight must-know tips for great tattoo aftercare.
Listen to the Professionals
This sounds like a given, but it is essential that you listen to what your tattoo artist tells you, especially if it’s your first experience.
After the pain or discomfort of having a needle plunged into your skin, it is easy to want to show your ink to the world.
But you must be careful. Treat your tattoo like a wound from a recent surgery or operation.
Your body has had an intense test from the needle, and the artists know what they’re talking about. So, don’t underestimate them.
It is best not to do too much online research. Many websites will give you conflicting advice, which could confuse you.
Furthermore, it’s also wise to avoid what your friends or family tell you.
Even if you’ve got that friend who is covered in tattoos, they are not a professional in the field.
The artists are there for a reason. They are qualified and know what they’re doing.
Use Cling Film Wisely
Once your tattoo is finished, the artist will usually wrap the wound in cling film.
This is to prevent the fresh tattoo from getting anything inside it.
The cling film acts as a barrier against infection, but leaving it on for too long could cause issues.
As much as a fresh lot of ink needs to be protected, letting it dry is essential in tattoo aftercare.
It’s a smart move to keep the cling film on for a maximum of two hours. Then, wash the tattoo and recover it.
When covering the tattoo again, you must use fresh cling film and never the same one you had on before.
Leave the cling film on for the first night, as this prevents bacteria from the bed from getting into the tattoo.
But after this, it’s good to stop using cling film. Your tattoo, as mentioned, needs to dry.
Wash and Moisturise Properly
We mentioned previously that new tattoos must be washed before rewrapping in cling film, but let’s go into the washing process in more detail.
Your tattoo is unique, and a lot of work has gone into getting it on your skin. So, it needs to remain clean.
But by washing, we don’t mean soaking and scrubbing.
When you need to wash your tattoo, wash your hands first to prevent infection.
Always use warm, soapy water. The soap should always be antibacterial and unscented. Dove is a good option for this.
Little splashes or sprinkles will do the trick. Afterwards, leave the tattoo to dry in the air or dab it gently with a clean, dry towel.
Rubbing may cause irritation or bleeding. After this, it’s time to moisturise.
Use a light amount of moisturiser. Good options include aloe vera gel, tattoo goo, hustle butter, and Vitamin A&D ointment.
Never use Savlon, Vaseline, or non-tattoo aftercare Bepanthen.
Keep the tattoo clean and moisturise it at least two to three times a day.
It’s also important to keep hydrated throughout the process.
Showers Are Great
Like any other open wound, a new tattoo needs to be clean and dry.
Therefore, soaking it for a prolonged period in water is something to stay away from.
If you like your nice, long baths, consider temporarily switching to showers while your tattoo heals.
In the shower, avoid excessive periods and keep the tattooed area as dry as possible.
However, if light droplets get onto the ink, don’t worry too much. Just be sure to repeat the above moisturising steps when you finish showering.
You should also never go swimming with a new tattoo. The chlorine from the water could cause serious problems, leading to infection.
Wear the Right Clothes
During tattoo aftercare, it is important to wear the correct clothes.
Loose clothing is a good way to go, with cotton material being a sensible choice.
Tight shirts, trousers, or blouses should not be worn. If you have an ankle tattoo, you should avoid tall socks and jeans.
This is because the material will rub against the skin, damaging and fading the tattoo.
Normal T-shirts are fine to wear as long as they are not too tight.
Jogging bottoms and loose trousers are additional choices that will bode well with new ink.
It is also essential to make sure your new tattoo avoids direct contact with sunlight, as this can damage it.
Work Out Sensibly
If you’re an avid gym-goer, there are some things you should be aware of regarding your tattoo aftercare.
A new tattoo is delicate and should be treated as such.
It is, therefore, important not to put too much strain on the tattooed area.
So, it’s worth considering not going to the gym for a week after you get a new tattoo.
However, if you’re a fitness fanatic who can’t keep away, avoid exercising in the area where the tattoo is.
Consider changing your workout. For example, if your arms have new tattoos, focus on your legs.
And if your lower limbs are freshly inked, give them a break.
The strain on a new tattoo by working out can cause the artwork to stretch, making it lose that precision you were so impressed by.
If you come back home sweaty, shower as quickly as possible and moisturise. Sweat can irritate a fresh tattoo.
Scabbing & Itching
When someone has an operation, the stitches must be treated with care and caution.
The same applies to scabs on new tattoos. In the days following your tattoo appointment, scabs will appear on the artwork.
These may look like tiny bits of paper dotted around the skin. These are perfectly natural.
Scabs are simply the body’s way of uprooting the dead skin that has come from the needle.
This part of the healing process may also cause itching. It’s vital that you do not pick at or scratch the scabs.
Do not try and pull them out yourself. Be patient, and they will fall out on their own, much like how stitches dissolve.
Regular moisturising can help to reduce itching. If you scratch or pick the scabs, this can lead to infection.
During healing, your tattoo will also appear blurred and faded. This is a natural part of the process, so don’t worry!
The scabs should disappear within a few weeks. Gently washing the tattoo, as discussed previously, can speed up the process, but let it happen as naturally as possible.
The time it takes for scabs to disappear depends on the size and shape of the tattoo. If the artwork is smaller, there may be fewer scabs.
However, if you’ve gone for a full sleeve or a covered chest, it will take longer for it to heal.
Know When to Get Help
Help is always available if things don’t go to plan.
In a new tattoo, signs of infection can include a high fever, bleeding in the area, and puss oozing out of the wound.
If you have any of these symptoms, seek help as soon as you can. Revisit your tattoo artist or seek medical assistance.
The sooner you get something checked, the less chance of any long-term damage.
It can be hugely disappointing if a brand-new tattoo doesn’t heal correctly or if there are issues in the aftercare.
However, remember that your health is the most important.
When the tattoo is healed, a touch-up might be necessary to refresh any faded areas. If you feel you need one, speak to your artist. Some artists offer free touch-ups.
Tattoo aftercare can be a challenging process for everyone – not just for those who are dealing with their first experience.
Many steps need attention, and the fresh wound will need consistent monitoring.
Tattoos can have special meanings and are great for some people to enhance their aesthetics.
With the right care and treatment, they can transform your body into a beautiful piece of art.
Remember that your tattoo is a part of your body forever. Removing it can be a lengthy and painful procedure.
So, as you navigate your tattoo aftercare, these guidelines can be handy.
Be sure to follow them – it’s worth it in the end!
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