Tattoo After Care, What You Need To Know

There are so many ways to take care of a tattoo, and so many products out there to help with the healing process.

Let the truth be told that there is not one certain tattoo aftercare that will work for everyone in every part of the world. The reason is that there is humidity, sun, heat, cold and so many other variables that could change the way your tattoo needs to be healed.

Most tattoo artists are required by regulation to verbally explain tattoo after care to you and give you a written copy. Make sure you listen to the talk the artist gives you after your tattoo, you want to protect you investment and get it healed properly. If you have question, ask. No question is a stupid question when it comes to your health or your understanding of the healing process.

Follow their recommendations to the tee or if you are an experienced tattoo canvas, you may already have the tattoo after care program that works for you.

Another thing to watch out for is infections or anything that doesn’t seem right with your tattoo. This may require a trip to the tattoo shop. Your artist will make recommendations from that point. You also need to remember that the tattoo artist is not a medical advisory, so if it is infected or not healing properly, a trip to the local medical clinic may be a good place to seek further advice.

Below is a commonly used after care sheet, some states or counties may have certain sheets to be used by tattoo artist, the below is just an example of one of the many that are available to use.

1.  After 3 hours, remove the bandage gently and wash with warm water and mild soap.    DO NOT RE BANDAGE.
2. Apply a thin film of A&D Ointment, Neosporin, Bacitracin, or recommended 3 times a day for the next 3 days.    After 3 days, use a hand lotion like Aquaphor, Dermassage or Noxema until skin returns to its pre-tattoo condition.
3. Stay out of sunlight and tanning booths until tattoo is healed, at least 7-10 days.
4. Do not soak tattoo in tub, sauna, Jacuzzi or go swimming while your new tattoo is healing.   Showers are fine.
5. Do not rub or pick the treated area while it is healing.   Loss or color and/or infection could occur.
6. Extreme sun and exposure over the years can and will fade your tattoo.  This can be minimized by using a strong sunscreen, at least SP25.
7. Your tattoo should heal in 2 weeks.  Consult a physician if any signs or symptoms develop such as the following: redness at site, green/yellow discharge (foul smelling) and/or fever.