Don't sweat it! If you just got some new ink, we can help you keep it looking great. You know how important proper aftercare is so your tattoo retains its vibrancy and doesn't get infected. We certainly don't want you to end up with a "Son of God" tattoo like Justin Bieber's – let's avoid that at all costs!

Why Tattoo Care Matters

Your tattoo is an investment in yourself, and just like any other investment, it needs proper care and attention.

We've all heard the horror stories of tattoo care. We know someone who didn't bother taking proper care of their tattoo, and wound up with a badly-healed mess that almost looks like a burn victim. That’s why it's so important to learn the basics of best tattoo aftercare.

It can be easy to forget that tattoos are essentially skin wounds -- and, just like any other wound, they need TLC in order to heal properly. That means following a few simple steps each day.

These steps may be simple, but if you don't follow them correctly you could be at risk for all sorts of complications - from annoying skin infection to more serious problems like permanent scarring or even anaphylactic shock. And trust me on this one - you don't want your new tattoo looking like the scabby, crusty mess your friend ended up with after failing to take proper aftercare!

What’s more?

Proper tattoo aftercare is not difficult or time-consuming, it just requires a bit of common sense and consistency.

How to Care for Your Tattoo

Getting a tattoo is a big decision, and once you’ve made that choice, it’s important to look after your artwork properly. While tattoos require commitment and dedication to look their best, the right aftercare routine will help you keep the vibrant colors and sharp lines of your tattoo looking great for years to come.

Immediately After Getting Tattooed

Once you’ve completed your session with your trusted artist, they should wrap up the area with a bandage or plastic wrap. Whatever you do, don’t remove this before instructed; it helps protect the open wound from infection by keeping out pathogens (germs) and dirt.

When it’s time to remove the wrapping — usually an hour or two after getting inked — gently peel it off using lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean towel and apply some fragrance-free lotion or Vaseline petroleum jelly as directed by your artist.

Be sure not to pick at any scabs that may have formed on the surface of the skin; this could cause scarring or further damage. Remember — whatever you do, don't try to pop them like zits! It will only make matters worse and end up being more painful than necessary.

The Dos and Don'ts of Looking After Your Tattoo

The next few weeks after getting inked are critical when it comes to caring for a new tattoo. To give yourself the best chance of having beautiful artwork on display for years to come, here are some dos and don'ts when looking after your new piece:

· Do keep the area moisturized with fragrance-free lotion or petroleum jelly as needed; this will help soothe any itching sensation while also preventing cracking or peeling of skin too soon.

· Do wear sunscreen whenever possible if you plan on spending time outdoors; UV rays can cause fading in certain colored ink tattoos over time.

· Don't soak your tattoo in water (either showering/bathing or swimming); submerging a fresh tattoo could lead to infection. 

· Don't apply alcohol-based products on top of freshly healed skin; these products can be too abrasive for healing skin tissue.

These rules may seem straightforward but following them strictly ensures that any healing process is comfortable and successful! Always listen carefully to instructions given by qualified professionals at licensed tattoo shops who know best about what works for different types of tattoos—their expertise shouldn’t be taken lightly as proper maintenance will ensure optimal results in no time!

Tattoo Aftercare Products

When it comes to tattoo aftercare, there are a few essentials you should have on hand. Here are some essential tattoo aftercare products and why they’re important for keeping your tattoo healthy and looking its best.

Antimicrobial Soap

Antimicrobial soap is a must-have item in any tattoo aftercare kit. Using this type of soap will help prevent infection by killing the bacteria that can otherwise cause inflammation and redness around the area of the tattoo. Regular bathing with antimicrobial soap will also help keep your tattoo clean and free from dirt, oil and other debris that can interfere with healing.

Antibacterial Ointment or Lotion

These products are designed to provide a barrier between your skin and the outside environment, while also providing protection against infection. They work by forming a protective layer on top of the skin that helps keep germs from entering the pores. The ointment or lotion should be applied several times throughout the day for maximum protection.

Antibacterial Cream or Spray

These are specifically designed to protect against bacteria that may enter through small cuts or scratches in the skin after getting a tattoo. Spray or cream versions are often easier to apply than ointment or lotion, so it may be worth investing in one for extra protection against infection.

Don't fall for the cheap, dollar store ointments that claim to "speed up healing." These products can actually do more harm than good. It's also not necessary to go bankrupt buying fancy, high-end tattoo care products. Listen to the instructions of your tattoo artist and use the products they recommend.

Daily Tattoo Aftercare Routine to Keep Your New Ink Looking Fresh

With great power comes great responsibility – and if you want your tattoo to stay looking its best for years to come, you need to be vigilant about taking care of it.

The basics of daily tattoo aftercare are simple: gently wash the area twice a day using antimicrobial soap and warm water, pat dry with a clean towel, and apply a thin layer of moisturizing lotion (the kind meant for tattoos). Doing these steps are essential for preventing skin infection, which can permanently damage your tattoo.

In addition to washing and moisturizing, there are a few other things you should keep in mind when caring for your new ink. First, always wear sunscreen on any exposed areas of your tattoo. Sunscreen is key in protecting your tattoo from fading over time.

If the area starts feeling rough or tight, slather on some antibacterial ointment or Aquaphor to soothe it. Third, chances are you won't want to hop into the shower every day – but don’t skip out on cleaning! Just use a cotton ball or pad soaked in antimicrobial soap and warm water instead.

Also – don’t overthink it!

Consistency is key when it comes to tattoo care – so make sure you do all the necessary steps even when you don't feel like it or think that nothing has changed since yesterday.

That said – there's no reason why aftercare can't be fun! Why not make an appointment with a friend or family member who also has tattoos, order some special lotions online that have amazing smells and textures specifically designed for tattoos–or create fun rituals around cleansing and moisturizing? That way, taking care of your new ink won't feel like such a chore anymore!

Wrap Up!

Go out and show off your new ink with pride! And make sure to lavish it with tender, loving care - give it hugs, tell it sweet nothings, and for goodness' sake, don't skimp on the aftercare!

Follow the advice of your tattoo artist and dermatologist, because if anything goes wrong, you don't want to be stuck with a monstrosity instead of a masterpiece. Keep your tattoo looking fresh for years with the right care routine - no freakouts allowed!

READ MORE…

Got a tattoo, but now have second thoughts? Check out our article on tattoo removal: the process and what to expect.

Looking for ways to save money? We've got some tips on how to save money on tattoo costs.

Ever been dreaming of getting a tattoo but worried about the age restrictions? Here's the truth about tattoo age restrictions in Hawaii.