Congratulations on your new tattoo! Now that you're a part of the 'kewwwl' kids, I bet you're wondering how to care for your new, friendly skin addition. Look, I have EIGHT years of experience with fresh and old tattoos, so I've put together this aftercare blog just for you.
DAY 1 - The first night
Once your tattoo application is finished, your artist should have applied a wrap or bandage to your tattoo. This protects the open pores from accumulating bacteria. The type of wrap varies among artists. If the wrap seems to fit snugly and you are comfortable wearing it the first night, then it's best to leave the bandage on until the next day. Leaving the bandage on overnight helps prevent dust particles, lint, hair, etc., from irritating your new tattoo while you sleep. If the wrap is uncomfortable or slipping off, then thoroughly wash your hands before removing it, at least 2 hours after your tattoo application. Then, follow the cleaning instructions listed for day 2. Do not hesitate to reapply a new bandage that seems more suitable for your first night. You may use Tite-Dri pads or saran wrap.
DAY 2 - Cleaning your tattoo
Upon waking up, you should wash your hands thoroughly and remove the bandage. Once the bandage is removed, you may notice ooze (blood and/or plasma), which is part of the healing process and is completely natural as your tattoo begins to heal. Carefully pat your tattoo clean with water and a clean, dampened soft paper towel at least 3 to 4 times a day for an entire week. You may use anti-bacterial soap, but be sure not to use anything scented. Allow your tattoo to air dry for the rest of the day, being sure not to touch it on any dirty surfaces. If you are going out for the day, it would be best to wear something loose and comfortable so that your tattoo may breathe.
*Allow your tattoo to air dry on your 2nd and 3rd day, without applying any ointments or creams.
DAY 3 - Moisturizing
Now that you've let your new tattoo air dry for two days (and have become familiar with cleaning it), you'll need to apply a thin layer of ointment over it. (Important: Be sure not to cake or lather any ointment on top of your tattoo, because your tattoo still needs to breathe and will bubble up if you do!) Please continue to do this for the rest of the week.
- Showers
One of the most common questions people have is: How do you shower with a brand new tattoo? Yes, it is okay to shower with a new tattoo. However, here's what to avoid:
Do not scrub your tattoo or apply anything scented to it.
It's okay to let the soap rinse over the tattoo, but try to avoid direct contact as much as possible.
Lastly, don't let the water directly hit your new tattoo; this can irritate your skin, and it won't react well!"
-Ointments
Traditional and commonly used ointments in the tattoo world are Aquaphor or A&D ointment. These work great for most people! However, on rare occasions, some individuals may find that they are allergic to these ointments. To remedy an allergic reaction, I like to turn to my good ol' natural friend, organic coconut oil, which has great healing and natural benefits. 🌿
DAY 5 - 1 Month - Closure
As your tattoo continues to heal, you may notice peeling, scabbing, and itchiness. Avoid picking scabs; doing so can result in bleeding, may ruin the design, and can cause scarring. Patting your tattoo and scratching the areas around it may help when your tattoo starts to itch. Do not scratch your tattoo directly! Allow it to fully heal for 3 weeks to a month. Happy healing!
- Avoid
Touching your new, fresh tattoo.
Sun exposure: Keep the tattoo area out of direct sunlight for at least a month. Wearing a spandex shirt or leggings may be helpful as your tattoo heals if you are active or work outdoors.
Swimming: Avoid all bodies of water (pools, hot tubs, rivers, lakes) while your tattoo heals.
- Highlights🌼✨☀️🌙
Washing in the morning and evening speeds up the recovery process.
Remember to pat your skin dry thoroughly, and do not rub it. That sounds painful!
Do not apply excess ointment, because this suffocates the tattoo and can cause scarring.
Drinking plenty of water before and after helps with the healing process!"