Getting a tattoo is like getting a piece of art made just for you. It's also a kind of wound. Fast-moving needles used by tattoo machines inject ink into the skin deep into the dermis. Aftercare for a tattoo is
just as critical to its longevity as appropriate storage is to a painting's ability to hang in a museum.
If this is a person's first tattoo, the tattoo aftercare process can be a bit of a mystery. In this article, we'll cover all you need to know about caring for a new tattoo, as well as how to keep it looking fresh and healthy.
Procedures for Tattoo Aftercare
The size and complexity of your tattoo will affect how soon you heal. Your skin is more vulnerable to
injury when you get a larger tattoo.
Day 1
You'll be covered in bandages or plastic wrap when you go home from the tattoo parlor on the first day. You can remove it after a few hours.
If you're not sure how long you'll have to wait, speak with your artist. Depending on the nature and size of your tattoo, you may be given different recommendations. You may only need to keep your new tattoo covered for a few hours at most, according to some tattoo parlors.
Fluid is likely to ooze out of the tattoo after the cover is removed. Blood, plasma, and a little extra ink
make up this mixture. It's very normal to feel a little uncomfortable during this period. Your skin will be sore and reddened. The possibility exists that it will be a little heated to the touch.
Use warm water and a fragrance-free soap to gently cleanse the tattoo. Put on an unscented moisturizer that is also alcohol-free. Allow the tattoo to heal by removing the covering.
Days 2 to 3
Your tattoo will appear cloudier and duller by now. As your skin heals, you'll notice this. There will also be scabs.
Use a fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizer on your tattoo once or twice a day to keep it looking
its best.
You may notice some ink dripping into the sink when you wash. This is merely a buildup of ink that has leaked out of your pores.
From Day 4 to Day 6,
As time goes on, the redness will diminish. Mild scabbing over the tattoo is likely to be noticed. Not as thick as cuts on your own skin, but they will have a raised appearance. Avoid picking at the scabs, as this might lead to permanent scars.
Your tattoo should be washed at least once or twice a day. Put on an unscented moisturizer that is also
alcohol-free.
Days 6 to 14
Eventually, the crusted skin will peel away. Don't fiddle with them or try to rip them off. Natural removal is the best method. It's possible that you could accidentally yank the ink out and leave permanent marks.
Your skin may begin to itch at this stage. In order to alleviate the itch, gently massage on a fragrance
free and alcohol free moisturizing lotion several times daily.
As of this moment, if your tattoo is still inflamed and sore. Consult a physician or return to your tattoo
artist.
Days 15 to 30
Most of the large flakes will have fallen off and the scabs will be disappearing at this stage of healing.
Some dead skin will remain, but it will gradually disappear as well.
It's possible that the tattooed region still appears drab and dry. To restore a healthy appearance to the
skin, apply moisturizer as needed.
Third-month tattoos should look exactly as the artist intended at the end of that time period.
Products for tattoo aftercare
The best after-care lotions for tattoos:
What moisturizer one should use may be different for each tattoo artist. The following are key things to bear in mind:
Alcohol-free healing ointments, such as Eucerin or Curel
Coconut oil
Tattoo-specific cream, such as Tattoo Goo
Pure cocoa butter or shea butter
Soap options available online include the following:
Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
Liquid Neutrogena
Dial Gold Antibacterial Deodorant Bar Soap (even though this soap isn't fragrance-free, tattoo artists frequently use it).
It's possible your tattoo artist near me recommends an ointment like A+D Original Ointment or
Aquaphor Healing Ointment for the first day or two of healing; be sure to apply it.
It's recommended to stay away from petroleum-based products such as Vaseline. Using petroleum-
based cosmetics can cause the ink to fade, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Tips on tattoo care
A lifetime commitment is required to keep a tattoo looking its best for as long as possible.
What to do
Tattoos can be cared for in the following ways:
When caring for a tattoo, only use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soap and moisturizer, as aggressive chemicals and scents can cause irritation and even ruin freshly tattooed skin.
Keep your skin's pores clear by using a moisturizer that allows it to breathe.
The skin should be totally dry before using any type of aftercare moisturizer, as excess moisture can cause irritation and even a heat rash.
Gentle but regular cleaning of the tattoo is essential, especially after a soiled or sweaty workout.
Make sure you're drinking lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and soft.
When the tattoo is healing, use a bandage or clothing to protect it from the sun.
Is there anything I should not do?
As a matter of fact, YES! In terms of post-tattoo care, the following are things to avoid:
Moisturizers and soaps that contain fragrances and harsh chemicals. This is applicable even if a product does not ordinarily affect your skin.
To avoid scarring, avoid picking at scabs.
Itching tattoos even if they're itchy.
Oily moisturizers that will clog the pores of the skin.
Applying sunscreen before the tattoo is completely healed.
Going for a swim before the tattoo is completely healed
Conclusion
Working with a skilled Haltom City tattoo artist who comes highly regarded is the most critical aspect of tattoo aftercare. This prevents any difficulties and makes the process of healing much more convenient.
The best defense against poor healing and any tattoo infection is to follow our Fort Worth city tattoo
artist recommendations on self-care. Taking proper care of a tattoo may keep it clean, prevent infection, and prolong the life of the skin and the tattoo.
Would you like to consult with a professional and experienced tattoo artist in Fort Worth? Then visit our tattoo shop Haltom City today!