So you have your new tattoo and you’re admiring it as your new piece of art work…
One should remember that it’s not just a picture; it is also in fact an open wound until
the skin fully recovers. So like any open wound, it is important that you keep the skin
clean and protected from germs and the environment to avoid the risk of infection.
Taking Care of Your New Tattoo
Do not remove your dressing anywhere but in a clean environment and where it is safe
to do so. Try to avoid doing it in a public toilet where you or others could be
contaminated. Remove the dressing in around 2-6 hours after your tattoo was
completed. With clean hands, gently wash the area with antibacterial soap. A fresh
tattoo may leak blood/plasma a few hours after it is completed so remove all the
leftover ink and bodily fluids from the design. Do not use a wash cloth or a sponge,
only the finger pads of your own clean hands. Allow 15-20 minutes for the tattoo to dry
out naturally. Do not use paper towel or a bath towel to dry it off. Once your tattoo is
dry, with clean hands apply a thin layer of aftercare cream that was recommended by
the artist. Apply the aftercare cream 2-4 times daily as in enough to keep the tattoo
slightly moisturized. Over use of the aftercare is not recommended and can have an
adverse effect on your tattoo. A thin layer few times a day is better than a load all at
once. Continue to treat your tattoo until it is completely healed, which can take
anywhere from 2-5 weeks depending on the size, location and your own immune
system.
During the healing process remember to avoid:
– Swimming pools, baths, steam rooms, soaking the tattoo in anyway. Showers are
fine but do not directly hit the tattoo with the force of the shower and it is recommended
to apply a thin layer of aftercare before you shower.
– No picking or scratching, slap it if necessary but don’t scratch.
– Try to wear loose clean clothing, fabric that won’t stick and let the design breath.
Remember the aftercare could stain the clothing.
– Do not expose your new tattoo to raw meat and cooking greasy foods or other sources
of infection.
– Do not use fake tan or any cosmetics on your fresh tattoo.
– Do not use tanning beds, sun rooms or expose your tattoo to direct sunlight.
After the tattoo is healed it is best to always use sun protection on your design. A
high SPF factor starting at 30 or a zinc cream for full blockage will help the sun not
damage the colour or line work on your tattoo.