Now you have your tattoo finished, and it does look good. It is your new piece of art! The tattoo artist did an excellent job, and now it is your turn to take care of your new tattoo. To have a nicely healed tattoo, you must be particularly attentive to it, especially in the first few weeks. This post is your guide to taking care of a fresh tattoo so that it will heal nicely and you can wear it proudly.
Remember, each artist and studio works in specific ways, and each provides recommendations for the healing process so your tattoo will look as best as possible. Here are our steps for the process.
The Aftercare Guide for Your Fresh Tattoo
What aftercare route did you and the tattoo artist choose?
In our studio, we use one of the two options for this stage: the second-skin type plastic foil or the pad. This decision is made by the tattoo artist and the customer together. However, as a rule of thumb, we may use the second-skin plastic foil for smaller and simpler tattoos in 99% of cases (given that you don't have any plaster or other skin type allergies that might trigger a reaction). For more complex tattoos, pads might be recommended.
Second-skin
1. Keep it covered
If second-skin plaster was used, we recommend keeping the foil on the skin for 4 days. The foil is waterproof but breathable, creating a safe environment for your tattoo. It protects your tattoo from external elements, ensuring your skin closes and the wound is healing.
2. Remove the plastic film.
When it is time to remove the film, we recommend doing it during your shower because the water will help the foil loosen from your skin. Take your time, and don't rush the process!
3. Clean the area
Now that your tattoo is exposed, you have to wash it thoroughly. Use your usual shower gel or soap, but remember to clean the tattoo well.
4. Let the skin dry.
It is essential to leave your tattoo dry by itself. Your tattoo is still a wound, so please use no towel.
5. Moisturise
Now, you can start moisturising the tattoo. Apply a thin layer of the provided ointment 3-4 times daily for at least a week. If the tattoo still feels very dry after a week, use the ointment or switch to a body moisturiser for another week.
Pads
1. Remove the pad after 3 hours maximum!
If your tattoo is covered with a pad, remove it as soon as you arrive home. The pad protects the skin from external elements and absorbs the bodily fluids that your tattoo releases. However,
2. Wash the tattoo
After you remove the pad, you have to wash your tattoo for the next 3 days at least three times a day. It is essential not to use any sponges, loofas, or towels. Make sure also that you clean the tattoo very well each time.
3. Let it dry
It is essential to leave your tattoo dry after each washing cycle. Your tattoo is still a wound, so please do not use any towel.
4. Moisturise
Apply a thin layer of the provided ointment 3-4 times daily for at least a week. Be mindful when using the crea
Extra tips for keeping your tattoo safe and looking good
Do NOT scratch the scab that forms during the healing process.
Avoid baths for at least 1 week after your tattoo session.
Do NOT swim in pools or bathe in swimming pools for at least 1 month after getting tattooed.
Avoid sunbeds for at least 1 month following your tattoo session.
Avoid gyms for the first 3 days while the film is on your skin, especially if you sweat during exercise.
Try not to scratch the tattooed area, and use as little ointment as possible to allow the skin to breathe.
Avoid exposing your tattoo to the sun, particularly if it is coloured or has realistic black and grey shading.
Use sunblock (SPF 50) as often as possible if you must expose it to the sun.
Please remember, whenever you feel something is not right during the healing process of your tattoo, do not hesitate to contact the artist or the studio where you got the tattoo, Also, make sure to follow their recommendations, which might include contacting a medical professional.
Conclusion
This short post provided you with the most essential steps to follow so that your tattoo will heal nicely and without any problems. Our blog post on Tips and Tricks offers information on how to care for your tattoo in summer and our recommendations on what to avoid during the first weeks with a fresh tattoo. If you have any questions about your new tattoo, comment below or contact us.
How do you take care of your tattoo? Are you taking a different approach? Let us know in the comment section!