How to Care for a New Tattoo

Once you’ve decided on a design and endured the process of putting that design on your body, there is still a lot of work to be done. Tattoos are permanent investments that need a lot of after care in order to heal properly and prevent scarring, colors and lines running and the loss of part or all of your design.

Caring for a Tattoo During the First 8 hours

The first 8 hours are crucial to the care of your new tattoo. When you leave the shop you should have some sort of cover or wrap over your tattoo. This cover is essential as the tattoo is drying to prevent your new ink from sticking to clothing or bed sheets. About 3-4 hours after tattooing it is important to gently clean the area with plain water.

Avoid rubbing or scratching at the area but clean away any blood or left over ink on and around your new art using plain water and clean hands. After you have cleaned the area, gently pat the skin dry and apply a thick layer of a gentle, dye and scent free lotion such as Eucerin or Vaseline brand lotions. It is essential that during the healing process you keep the area well moisturized or “wet”. If your new tattoo is in an area that will be underneath clothing cover the area with some sort of bandage after applying lotion for the first day or two.

Tattoo Care – The First week

For the first week after a new tattoo it is essential to keep the area well hydrated with lotion. Keeping the skin moist will prevent scabbing. Scabs will occur naturally during the healing process and the colors in your tattoo will run into these scabs. Don’t panic. Avoid picking at the scabs and continue to moisturize the area every 2-4 hours. Avoid taking baths or exposing your new ink to water for extended periods of time. Showers won’t hurt your design if you keep exposure to a minimum and are sure to moisturize the area after you are done.

Long Term Care for a Tattoo

After you new tattoo has healed, be sure to apply sunscreen if you will be in the sun for extended amounts of time. Exposure to the sun can fade the colors in your ink and cause damage to your skin, damaging your tattoo. Remember that common skin infections and irritation will appear differently with your tattoo. Allergic reactions can occur even in old tattoos and can appear in the form of warts or red bumps. If you suspect you have an infection or allergy seek medical attention. Dermatologists are best for issues with your tattoo and will work with you to preserve the art as well as your health.

Easy Step By Step Instructions For Caring For a New Tattoo

• After getting the tattoo, be sure to clean the area with water and a gentle soap. Avoid rubbing the area but clean away any blood, plasma or ink left over.
• Keep the area well hydrated using a gentle, healing lotion.
• Apply moisturizer every 2-3 hours for at least the first week to help the healing process and keep the colors bright.

Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions When Caring for a New Tattoo

Do not scratch the area. As your tattoo heals the skin may feel sunburned and itchy. Pat the area to relieve the feeling but do not scratch.

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