How do I take care of my new Tattoo?
Tattoo Aftercare — a thorough guide. written by Patricia, @hoshiyahh_ on instagram
Week 1
Leave the bandage on as advised by the artist to avoid a skin infection. It is normal to notice liquid (blood, plasma, ink) leak into the bandage. If the bandage starts peeling and part of your tattoo is exposed or the skin becomes red/hot to the touch, it should always be removed early!
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling the tattoo.
Remove the bandage while running the tattoo under warm water (recommended to do this in the shower).
Carefully wash away any excess/dried blood, plasma, and ink using warm water and an unscented soap. Your tattoo should feel smooth (and a little raw) and no streaks or feeling of sliminess should remain.
Carefully pat dry using a Freshly cleaned towel or paper towel (NOT TOILET PAPER dont be a criminal about it).
Do not rub the tattoo as it flakes as it may lift the ink and cause irritation.
Do not use dirty towels or towels that have been sitting out as they may contain bacteria that can cause an infection. Freshly clean ONLY
Once the area is completely dry, (a few hours after first cleaning and un-bandaging) you can apply a thin layer of unscented lotion to the tattooed area.
Redness when the tattoo is fresh is normal
Redness the next day is not.
Whatever concerns you might have about your tattoo, we are ALWAYS here to listen and offer guidance or reassurance.
Week 2-3
Clean the tattoo and apply an unscented lotion at least twice a day until the skin is healed. (“dry healing” is fine but don’t scratch if your tattoo is itchy, apply moisturizer)
Avoid heavy amounts of sunlight exposure, cover tattoos with loose clothing NO SUNSCREEN
Wash your tattoo after gym exercises or after exposure to dirt/sweat in your work or home environment.
AND Just a re-cap:
THINGS TO NOT DO TO YOUR TATTOO:
Do not pick or pull at flaking/scabbing skin. This can cause delayed healing, fading, and increased risk of infection.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or UV rays. Do not apply sun screen to the tattoo until the area is completely healed.
Avoid submerging the tattoo in water (ex. baths, swimming, direct shower stream). Bacteria in the water may increase risk of infection. If accidentally exposed, wash the tattoo promptly.
Avoid intense exercise in the area of the tattoo. Rapid muscle growth can distort the tattoo and impact healing. If there is heavy sweat in the tattooed area, wash the tattoo promptly.
Contact your artist for any additional aftercare questions/concerns. For any emergencies such as an infection, please seek medical attention and inform your artist or call us if any infections or issues occur!
