Tattoo Aftercare – The job is in your hands.
Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but it's important to remember that a tattoo is essentially an open wound at first. Once the ink has been placed in the skin, it needs time and proper care to heal. Good aftercare is crucial to ensure the tattoo heals properly and remains beautiful for many years to come. Here, you'll find the most important tips for taking the best possible care of your new tattoo.
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Why is tattoo aftercare so important?
When you get a tattoo, your skin is pierced thousands of times to place the ink. This makes the skin vulnerable to infections, irritation, and damage. Aftercare is therefore essential to protect the skin and ensure the tattoo heals properly. Without proper care, the tattoo can lose ink, become uneven, or, in the worst case, lead to infections.
By following a good aftercare routine, you can help your tattoo heal properly and achieve an even result. However, it’s important to remember that even with proper care, a perfect outcome cannot be guaranteed. Factors beyond our control, such as the body’s healing process and skin type, also play a role. Here are the key steps to ensure the best possible care for your new tattoo.
1. Leave the plastic on
Right after your tattoo is finished, the artist will cover the area with plastic wrap to protect it from bacteria. How long you should keep the wrap on depends on the type of film used. Sometimes, it's recommended to leave it on for a few hours, while special wraps can stay on for up to 3-5 days. The plastic wrap acts as a barrier against bacteria and contaminants, giving your skin time to begin the healing process.
Tips: Always follow your tattoo artist's instructions on when and how to remove the plastic wrap. Remove the wrap gently to avoid damaging the tattoo.
2. Clean the tattoo thoroughly to prevent infection
When the plastic wrap is removed, the real aftercare begins. First and foremost, wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo. Use lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap recommended by your tattoo artist. Gently wash the tattoo with clean hands to remove plasma, excess ink, and any bacteria.
Avoid scrubbing the tattoo – instead, gently pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of aftercare cream to keep the skin hydrated without clogging the pores.
Tips: Avoid greasy creams and ointments, as they can prevent the skin from breathing and delay the healing process.
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3. Shower gently
You can shower after getting a tattoo, but it's important to be cautious. Use lukewarm water and avoid letting the water hit the tattoo directly with a strong stream. Hot water can irritate the skin and delay the healing process. Use a mild soap and avoid scrubbing the area.
After the shower, gently pat the tattoo dry and apply a moisturizer as recommended by your tattoo artist. This will keep the skin soft and protect the tattoo from drying out.
Tips: Avoid long showers and hot water during the first few weeks after getting a new tattoo.
4. Avoid bathing
Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, and the ocean for at least 2-4 weeks after getting a new tattoo. Water from these sources may contain bacteria and chemicals that can irritate the skin and cause infections. Stagnant water and saltwater can also disrupt the healing process.
Tips: Keep the area dry and clean to ensure the best possible tattoo aftercare.
5. Let the scabs heal naturally
As part of the healing process, the tattoo will start to peel and form scabs. This is a natural phase, but it's crucial to let the scabs fall off on their own. Picking at them can cause the ink to lift, resulting in uneven color.
Wear loose clothing that doesn't rub against the tattoo to avoid irritation. The scabs will fall off on their own when the skin is ready, ensuring the tattoo remains smooth and vibrant.
Tips: If the skin itches, gently pat the area instead of scratching.
6. Protect the tattoo from the sun.
UV rays from the sun can damage a fresh tattoo and affect the ink's color. Avoid direct sunlight for at least 2-4 weeks after getting the tattoo. Once it has fully healed, use a high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) to protect it from the sun's harmful rays.
Tips: If you need to be out in the sun, wear loose-fitting clothing to cover the area.
7. Be careful with exercise
Physical activity can be problematic while your tattoo is healing. Sweating can irritate the skin, and friction from clothing or equipment can damage the tattoo. If you work out while the plastic wrap is still on, sweat can loosen the wrap and expose the tattoo to bacteria.
Opt for light activities during the first few weeks, and avoid exercises that involve significant movement in the area where the tattoo is located. This allows the skin to heal without additional stress.
Tips: Wait at least 1-2 weeks before resuming intense workouts.
Tattoo Aftercare – Summary
Tattoo aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo remains fresh, vibrant, and beautiful for years to come. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of infections and achieve the best possible result:
- Keep the plastic wrap on for as long as your tattoo artist recommends.
- Clean the tattoo carefully with mild soap.
- Shower gently with lukewarm water and avoid hot showers.
- Avoid swimming in pools and the ocean.
- Let the scabs fall off naturally without picking.
- Protect the tattoo from sunlight with clothing and sunscreen.
- Avoid intense exercise and sweating during the first few weeks.
Even with proper tattoo aftercare, it's normal for some ink to fade during the healing process. If you notice any fading, feel free to contact us for a touch-up.
Feel free to contact us at: post@attitude.no or call us 22 20 13 13 to schedule an appointment. We can perform a touch-up no earlier than 4 weeks after the tattoo was done.
Remember, proper aftercare is the key to a long-lasting tattoo.
