Tattoo Aftercare
How to Take Care of Your New Tattoo
Whether it is your first tattoo or your 20th; there are always a few things you should do after getting inked.
Apply Antibiotics: Your artist most likely applied an antibiotic ointment to the effected area. Go ahead and grab a tube of topical antibiotic to help prevent infection and avert fading as much as possible.
Wrap it Up: Tattoos are fresh wounds, so prevent any air-borne bacteria from entering the skin by using a gauze bandage to cover the effected area. This is especially true for immediately after getting a tattoo. Allow at least a few hours with your new tat under wraps before you start showing it off.
Keep it Clean: Use an anti-bacterial soap and wash gently 3-4 times per day for the first few days. You do not have to scrub the area, simply splash or run water over the affected area and blot with a soapy washcloth. Pat your skin dry with a clean soft towel.
Keep it Moist: The last thing you want is your new tattoo to fade. Keep Tattoos from fading by applying moisture to it. Products such as Lubriderm, Eucerin, and Tattoo Goo help keep your tattoo moist as it heals, and also discourages scabs from becoming over abundant. Even once your new ink has healed consider applying a lotion regularly to the area.
Sun Protection: Tattoos will lighten. Apply SPF30 liberally every time you venture outdoors. Even on cloudy days when the ultraviolet rays are actually more intense. Some tattoo fading is inevitable, but you can certainly do your best to keep your investment bright and vivid.
What You Need:
- Antibacterial Ointment
- Gauze Pads
- Anti-Bacterial Soap
- Clean Towel
- Lotion
- Sunblock SPF30
Additional Information:
Minor scabbing is normal and to be expected; however excessive scabbing is not. Allow your tattoo to heal, it will itch but try not to pick your scabs, once everything heals the itching will stop. Keep any scabs clean and apply an antibiotic ointment to help relieve discomfort.
NOTE: Allergic reactions may occur. If you experience a rash, hives, scabs that won’t heal, excessive bleeding, foul smelling discharge, fever, chills or have trouble breathing, seek medical attention promptly.