 Tattoo Aftercare - Important Steps For Caring For Your New Tattoo
Don't Take Off The Bandage Too Soon
You got your new tattoo and you are ready to show the world. Your tattoo will be with you for the rest of your life so play it safe for the first several hours.. Your tattoo artist will cover your new tattoo with some kind of protective covering or bandage. The bandage is there to protect your tattoo from air-born bacteria that can cause infection. Your body treats your new tattoo like a wound, not a work of art and because of that you will want to protect that area of your body from possible infection.
Keep It Clean - Washing And Treating Is A Must
After several hours you can remove your bandage and show everyone your new tattoo. It is important to keep your new tattoo very, very clean. You may find some areas of residue from your tattoo work including blood and ointment. This is natural but needs to be cleaned. The best method for keeping your new tattoo clean in the first days is by gently washing it with a mild anti-bacterial soap and luke warm water. Don't use a washcloth as it can be a little to rough on the skin. Instead make sure your hands are clean and use your hand to clean the tattoo area.
Pat It Dry And Apply Ointment
Each time you wash your tattoo (by each time we mean several times a day) you will need to take care in drying off. It is recommended to gently pat dry with a soft clean towel. Once you have thoroughly dried the area you will need to apply a thick coat of the ointment your tattoo artist has provided or recommended. Keeping your tattoo covered with an antibacterial ointment will help prevenent possible infections as it it heals.
A Few Rules For The First Couple Of Weeks Of Your New Tattoo
| Keep your tattoo clean. Wash it on a daily basis several times a day. |
| Use a mild body lotion to keep the skin around your tattoo soft - Don't use lotions with fragrances as these can cause irritation. |
| Stay out of the pool, hot tub and other water areas such as your favorite swimming hole for at least 2 weeks. |
| After a couple days you may see some slight peeling or scabbing of skin on your tattoo. This is normal and nothing to be alarmed about. Don''t pick the skin or scabs. Use a warm wet compress such as a paper towel or soft wash cloth on the tattoo and hold for several minutes. |
| Your new tattoo may start to itch as it heals. Avoid scratching and once again use a warm wet compress to help stop itching. |
| Keep your tattoo bright and colorful by using a high SPF sunscreen when in the sun or tanning booth. |
These tips for tattoo care are offered as guidelines and should not be construed as medical advice or taken as such. With each tattoo comes the risk of subsequent health problems. You should make an informed decision about your choice to get a tattoo and to thoroughly investigate your tattoo artist's studio for cleanliness and safety. |
