Things you should do after getting a tattoo

Aftercare is crucial following a new tattoo as the fresh ink is akin to a wound. It’s essential to understand the proper care techniques to ensure it heals well and doesn’t get damaged. Here are the things you need to know about caring for a new tattoo.

When the tattoo is freshly done, the tattoo artist will wrap it to prevent bacteria from entering the tattoo. They will also recommend a specific amount of time to keep the wrap on.

Remove the covering, wash with warm water and antibacterial soap. Avoid scrubbing too hard, but ensure to remove any blood or dry ink.

The most important thing to remember is that once the wrap has been removed, it should not be reapplied to the tattoo to prevent bacterial growth.

After removing the wrap, the tattoo will be exposed to fresh air and may become dry.

Dryness is perfectly normal and acceptable. You can apply a small amount of antibiotic cream or tattoo ointment, gently rubbing it until completely absorbed into the skin. Repeat this process 3-5 times per day for the first week

Use Saniderm if needed, or continue applying tattoo ointment until the skin is healed and smooth. Any touch-ups can be done once the tattoo is healed (4-6 weeks)

Eating right also contributes significantly to the quick healing of your tattoo and reduces susceptibility to infection.

Try to eat healthily and ensure your body gets enough water. Incorporate plenty of fruits into your diet, such as oranges, grapefruits, and pomegranates, as they are rich in vitamins that aid in the faster healing of tattoos.

Things you should not do after getting a tattoo

In addition to proper care, it’s important to avoid the following things to help our tattoos heal faster and ensure the best aesthetics.

Avoid products with strong scents, chemicals, fragrances, and cosmetics that may come into contact with the new tattoo. Do not use scented soap to wash a new tattoo, as they are extremely sensitive and prone to irritation.

Avoid drinking alcohol and using drugs. Alcohol can cause clotting, blood thinning, and bleeding issues. Alcohol affects the blood, which in turn affects the skin and may impact your tattoo. Try to stay away from it for at least 48 hours (about 2 days) as a minimum precaution. For best results, avoid it completely until the tattoo is fully healed.

Avoid sun exposure as it can cause the tattoo to burn instead of healing, leading to fading, peeling, cracking, or blistering. To protect the new tattoo from the sun, cover it with clothing and use sunscreen specifically designed for tattoos.

Avoid wearing tight clothes, as they can stick to the skin and interrupt the healing process, causing discomfort. The material of tight clothes may rub against the tattoo and create itchiness. Instead, wear loose clothes to allow fresh air to help your tattoo breathe and heal properly.

Avoid shaving. Shaving on an open wound can risk causing more damage. Give it about a month to heal before you attempt to shave.

You should avoid touching, picking, or scratching the new tattoo, even if it itches. Your hands are not 100% clean, and you don’t want to risk damaging your tattoo or introducing bacteria or infections.

Avoid sweating and water, and keep the tattoo dry. If you are exercising, it would be best to take a break to allow the tattoo to heal. Be cautious when showering; try not to take a bath or a long shower until the tattoo has fully healed.

You should avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, rivers, or any other natural bodies of water. You won’t know what ingredients are in the water, but they may impact and cause your tattoo to become infected.