A tattoo can be far more than just an art piece. It is a permanent way to showcase your personal style. Because of the process involved with tattooing and because the artist will use a needle to inject ink underneath the upper skin layers, there can be a significant healing process with a tattoo. Caring for a tattoo can make sure you can prevent complications as your tattoo heals. As most tattoos can take up to 6 months to heal, aftercare is something that everyone receiving a tattoo needs to know about. Here are some top tips on proper care after you receive a tattoo.
As soon as your tattoo is done, the artist will clean it, apply petroleum ointment over the skin and then wrap the area in plastic wrap or a bandage. This prevents bacteria from making its way under the skin or the chance the tattoo will rub against your clothes and become irritated.
You can remove the bandage after a few hours and it will work to absorb extra fluids and ink leaking from the tattoo. After a few hours have passed, remove the bandage, wash your hands then wash the tattoo with fragrance-free soap and water. Pat down the skin with a soft cloth and use petroleum ointment across the tattoo.
Keep dressings off the tattoo and let it breathe from here.
Do not cover a tattoo with sunscreen until it is fully healed
Do not scratch at the tattoo site or pick scabs
Do not wear any tight clothing over the tattoo
Do not immerse your body in water until It has healed.
Watch for signs of redness after 6 days. Redness in the early stages of healing is fine but if you have inflammation after a full week, your tattoo may be experiencing an infection.
Scabs and flakes after a week are normal but you must keep up with moisturizing and prevent the chance that you will pick at these areas as the removal of skin could lead to scar tissue.
Keep some of these top ideas in mind and remember to be careful with your tattoo aftercare! Making an effort to properly care for your tattoo upfront will make sure it can be preserved and vibrant!
This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Black Amethyst is the best amongst tattoo shops in Clearwater FL. They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.
