Tattoo Aftercare 101: What to Do After Getting Inked
Tattoos have always been special to many people—from dotting down permanent lines and colors that preserve special memories to serving as a bold representation of their style. But sitting through the pain is only half the battle when it comes to getting the tattoos of your dreams; it also needs plenty of TLC to ensure the tattoo comes out picture-perfect and not infected in the days after inking your skin.
The thrill of going home with fresh ink can make anyone want to show off their tattoos, but it’s important to know how to care for your body art moving forward to ensure it remains just as beautiful without any risks to your health. With that in mind, what do you need to do to ensure your stick and poke heals properly?
Basic Tattoo Aftercare Tips to Pen Down
1. Always Consider Your Tattoo Artist’s Advice
Your tattoo artist knows best when it comes to caring for your fresh tatt, so their word will always be for your benefit. While different artists have various ideas of the best ways to heal your ink, it helps to follow their instructions and only do other things to improve their advice based on your research.
2. Don’t Show Off Your Fresh Ink Just Yet
It’s tempting to showcase your body art as soon as you leave the tattoo shop, but it’s crucial to keep them covered for at least five to six hours before you expose them for the world to see. That means you shouldn’t wash the tattoo just yet too! After the recommended time before you can uncover the fresh ink, you can move forward with washing the tattoo using antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.
3. Apply Antibacterial Moisturizing Cream
After washing the tattoo using mild liquid soap and lukewarm water, follow it by applying a thin layer of antibacterial ointment. Be sure to stray away from any moisturizers with fragrance or alcohol content, and don’t overdo the amount since it can clog the pores and beat the purpose of the antibacterial ointment.
Your tattoo artist will likely recommend the best moisturizing cream that can help your freshly pricked skin heal. You may need to do the cleaning process and apply moisturizer between three to five times a day.
4. Avoid Exposing Your Tattoo to Direct Sunlight
Never let your tattoo see the light of day for a few days since direct sunlight can cause burns, especially since new tattoos technically leave you with open wounds. If you want to avoid lasting damage, try to wear loose and long-sleeved clothing for the first month until your tattoo fully heals.
The Bottom Line: The Importance of Letting Your New Tattoo Heal Properly
Healing your fresh ink takes time, patience, and plenty of care, but sticking to your aftercare routine is the best way to keep your tattoo in good condition for years to come, with little-to-no complications along the way.
Are You Looking for the Best Tattoo Artists in Colorado, USA?
Inking down memories and symbols that represent special moments, people, or even pets in your life is an art itself; that’s why we believe tattoos are a beautiful way to express yourself and preserve a part of yourself that you want to keep forever.
If you’re looking for certified custom tattoo artists in Colorado, be it lettering, geometric, portrait, fine line, or full-colored work, check out our award-winning tattoo artists at Certified Tattoo! We can capture your narrative in stylized ink, so book an appointment with us. As we always say, anyone with skin is welcome here!