Health and Nutrition

Everything You Need to Know About Tattoo Aftercare

April 30, 2024April 30, 2024

Caring for your tattoo properly is crucial for ensuring it heals well and looks great in the long run. From using the right products to following a proper routine, here’s your guide to giving your tattoo the TLC it deserves.

To begin with, covering your tattoo with a dressing for a few days, washing the area a couple of times a day, keeping it moisturised, and avoiding sun exposure are key steps in aftercare. Doing these things diligently can help minimise scarring and reduce the risk of infections.

It’s not just about what your tattoo artist does in the studio; you also need to take care of your new ink at home. However, figuring out the best way to do this can be tricky. In many states, tattoo artists aren’t required to provide aftercare instructions. And even in states where they are, the information they offer can vary.

So, let’s break it down day by day, starting from when you first leave the studio.

On day one, you’ll likely come home with a dressing over your tattoo. Your artist should advise you on when to remove it. Whether it’s plastic wrap, gauze, or medical-grade adhesive like “second skin,” proper hygiene is key. Gently cleanse the area with warm water and fragrance-free soap, pat it dry, and follow your artist’s recommendation for ointment or lotion.

Over the next few days, your tattoo may start to look less vibrant as it heals. Scabs may form, and some ink may leach out. Resist the urge to pick at it, and continue with your cleaning routine.

Around days four to six, if you’ve been using second skin, it’s usually time to remove it. Take care during this process, ensuring your hands are clean. You may notice some light scabbing, which is normal, but avoid picking at it.

As the healing progresses, your skin may become itchy. Use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturiser to alleviate the itchiness. If you notice any signs of infection, such as persistent redness or swelling, seek advice from your artist or a healthcare professional.

By days 15 to 30, most of the scabs should have fallen off, revealing your healed tattoo underneath. Keep moisturising to maintain hydration, and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight until it’s fully healed.

When it comes to selecting products for aftercare, opt for mild, fragrance-free soap for cleaning, and follow your artist’s recommendations for ointments and lotions. Avoid petroleum-based products during the initial healing period, as they can hinder airflow and affect the ink’s vibrancy.

While some discomfort and oozing are normal in the days following a tattoo, be vigilant for signs of complications like infection, allergic reactions, or excessive scarring. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

Remember, caring for your tattoo isn’t just about preserving its aesthetic appeal; it’s also about safeguarding your skin and overall health. So, give your ink the attention it deserves, and enjoy watching it transform into a beautiful piece of art.

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Tatyana Dyachenko

Sex Blogger & Relationship Advisor at hippiehousecbd.com

For the past years, Tatyana has worked as a sex blogger and a relationship advisor. She has been featured in magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Teen Vogue. Vice, Tatler, Vanity Fair, and many others. Since 2016, Tatyana has focused on sexology, attended various training courses, participated in international conferences and congresses. “I wish people would address sexual issues in a timely manner! Forget shyness, prejudice and feel free to see a sex doctor for help or advice!” Tanya enjoys pursuing her flare for creativity through modelling, graffiti art, astronomy, and technology.

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