After getting a tattoo, you have to take good care of it to keep it looking fresh and healthy. This can be difficult because your skin is susceptible after getting a new tattoo. You need to know things to help clean it properly and ensure your tattoo stays beautiful and vibrant.
Washing
Tattoo care is crucial for your ink to heal correctly, so it’s best to start a routine as soon as possible. New tattoos often feel a bit itchy and irritated, so look for products that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients. Immediately after you remove the bandage, you should wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and skin-sensitive antibacterial soap. This is to help remove any ointment, blood, and plasma leaking out of the area. Once the area is clean, it’s time to moisturize. The space will scab over the next few days, so applying a light layer of healing Ointment is essential. The Ointment will keep the tattoo moisturized while it heals and acts as a barrier against any bacteria that may get into the area. You can use various products designed specifically for this purpose.
Moisturize
During the first week of healing, you must keep your tattoo moisturized to prevent it from drying out and becoming itchy. This will help it heal faster and to avoid infection. A thick oil-based product will help your tattoo stay soft and prevent scabbing. You can apply this once or twice a day throughout the healing process. You’ll also want to clean your tattoo regularly with lukewarm water and mild, liquid antibacterial, or antimicrobial soap. Don’t use a washcloth or scrubbing sponge because these can irritate the skin and prematurely remove any scabbing. Once you have cleaned your tattoo, apply a small amount of Ointment or plain, unscented skin lotion to your tattoo twice daily. Using this moisturizer gently is essential, as over-moisturizing can cause clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Drying
When you wash your tattoo, do it gently and thoroughly. Avoid harsh soaps and scrubs that can dry the skin and lead to irritation or infection.
After washing your tattoo:
- Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- DO NOT use a bath towel or hand towel, as these can harbor bacteria and germs that can get into the open wound and lead to an infection. Once your tattoo is completely dry, you can use a small amount of moisturizing cream/butter or balm to keep it healthy and hydrated.
- Apply it to a skinny layer, as too much can prevent your tattoo from healing properly. If you plan on dry recovery of your tattoo, talk to your tattooist about whether it is correct.
They can tell you if it will work for your body and the best products. They also advise keeping your skin clean and fresh throughout the healing process.
Removing Bandages
When you remove a bandage, it is essential to clean and dry the tattooed area thoroughly. This can be done with mild soap and water. Avoid soaps with fragrances, moisture beads, or scrubs of any kind. If you find that removing the bandage is causing too much pain or bruising, try using a product that will help loosen the adhesive. It’s a safe, gentle way to get even the toughest bandages and tape off your skin without the pain or bruising. You can also use a product like coconut, olive, or baby oil, which will weaken the adhesive enough to make it easier to peel the bandage off. It won’t be as effective as medical adhesive removers, but it will help the application to come off in less time than trying to rip it off.
