Recommended Tattoo Aftercare
While there isn’t a “one size fits all” solution for tattoo aftercare, I’ve found the following method tends to work well for most individuals. If you’re experienced in healing tattoos, you likely know what works best for your own skin. We can always discuss personalized approaches at any time.
Bandage
Leave the bandage on until you’re certain you’ll be staying home for the remainder of the day. Exposing a fresh tattoo in a public place on the first day is not sanitary or advisable.
You may want to leave the bandage on overnight. This can help you avoid being stuck to your bedsheets. If you have pets that sleep in your bed, the bandage would protect the tattoo from loose fur and especially from your pet(s) potentially licking your tattoo.
After the Bandage is Removed
Gentle cleansing:
As soon as the bandage is removed, wash your tattoo using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Opt for soaps for new born babies or brands like Cetaphil or Spectro-gel which are non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your skin pores.)
Dry healing: For the next 3-4 days, only wash your tattoo without applying moisturizer. This approach, known as dry healing, helps prevent infections. Remember that bacteria thrive in warm and moist environments, so following these guidelines may help promote better healing for your new tattoo.
Washing your Tattoo
Wash your tattoo a minimum of twice per day. Extra washes if the area gets contaminated by dirt, sweat, or exposed to unclean surfaces.
Handling weeping or wetness: if you notice any weeping or wetness on your tattoo after washing, gently blot it with a clean paper towel. Sometimes, your tattoo may continue to weep even up to 20 minutes after washing. This is normal and part of the healing process.
Avoid submerging: Druing the two-week healing period, refrain from submerging your tattoo in baths or pools. Also, avoid saunas.
Shower smart: When you shower, maintain a comfortable water temperature (not too hot) and keep your shower sessions efficient. Remember that the last body part you wash and rinse during a shower should be your tattoo.
Moisturizing your Tattoo
Don’t over-do it:
Tattoos heal best when they are either as moist as your natural skin or slightly drier. Be cautious not to over-moisturize, as this can lead to softening of the area. When that softening is exposed to air, overly moist tattoos may develop thick scabs.
Beware of Infections:
Warm and moist environments are breeding grounds for bacteria. Instead of excessive moisture, aim for the top healing layers to flake off naturally.
Moisturizer usage:
Use a sparing amount of moisturizer when your tattoo feels really dry or itchy. Opt for water-based moisturizers like Cetaphil or Spectro-gel.
Initial Days: Avoid using moisturizer during the first 3-4 days of healing.
Healing Time
A tattoo typically requires one to two weeks to heal, although in areas where the ink is deeply saturated in the skin, healing may take longer. It’s normal for the tattooed area to remain sensitive even after the two week period.
If you have any additional questions please don’t hesitate to reach out. Feel free to get in touch if you need further clarification or have any other questions related to your tattoo session.