BY JULIA BENITO
Everything you need to know about coming home with your new tattoo.
So, you got the tattoo. Perhaps it’s a reference to something you love, a symbol of a precious memory, or simply a decorative piece that’s in line with your unique tastes. Whatever the tattoo may be, be it in colorful ink or in classic black, you now have a beautiful piece of art on your skin that will last you your lifetime.
However — and this is a big however — getting a tattoo isn’t simply just waiting for your tattoo artist to finish poking your skin and being done with it. Having the proper tattoo aftercare is absolutely essential to making sure your work of art stays pristine and heals well. Not sure where to begin?
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to help care for your tattoo while it heals.
Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters
Think of a tattoo kind of like a medical procedure. Your tattoo artist uses a needle to insert ink underneath your skin, essentially giving you a pretty, stylized wound. As with any wound, open skin is prone to infections. Caring for your tattoo properly after your session is key for making sure no complications arise afterward.
How To Care for Your Tattoo
Keep it Covered (For a While)
While your tattoo artist may have already applied a thin layer of Vaseline and a form of film bandage post-poke, it’s good to have your own bandages ready for when you get home. Brands like Saniderm, Tegaderm, or RxDerm provide waterproof, transparent bandages in various sizes that are perfect for smaller tattoos. You can also dress your bandage in plastic wrap for larger pieces.
This helps bacteria from entering your open skin while protecting your tattoo from rubbing onto your clothes, leading to irritation. Keep it covered for as long as your artist recommends. This may be only up to one to three hours.
You can keep it unwrapped afterward, but you may be recommended to cover up the tattoo again for your first night of sleeping to prevent it from sticking to your sheets. This is typically for larger or solid-colored tattoos. Generally, it’s best to ask your artist what the best procedures are to take.
Wash Your Tattoo Gently
Gently is the keyword here. First, ensure your hands are clean before washing your tattoo, then clean the area with warm water and fragrance-free, antimicrobial soap. Make sure to pat your skin dry with a soft cloth. Remember: never scrub the tattoo with a paper towel or a sponge.
Apply Ointment
After cleaning the tattoo area, make sure to apply an ointment to soothe the wound. This can be a specialized tattoo ointment or an antibacterial ointment. Alternatively, you can also use unscented, alcohol-free lotion to lightly moisturize. However, do not slather a thick coat of product over your tattoo. You’ll only be needing enough to keep it moisturized, so a thin layer is sufficient.
What to Do After the First Day
Don’t Freak Out
Congratulations, you’ve cared for your tattoo for the first day! Now, you may be noticing some blood or some clotting happening. That’s normal. After all, a tattoo is a wound. It will eventually itch, scab, and develop harder layers. But just like any wound, do not pick, scratch, or peel it.
After some time, you may notice that your tattoo will have a duller, cloudier appearance. Again, that’s nothing to worry about. That’s simply your skin healing itself.
Continue Gently Washing
Keep washing your tattoo gently once or twice a day. Then apply your ointment or unscented lotion to keep it moisturized. If your tattoo is feeling dry or tight, you can apply your moisturizer again.
No Scalding Hot Water
Suffice it to say, scalding hot water will hurt your wound. But, aside from that, it may also cause your ink to fade.
No Swimming
If you’re planning on taking a dip in the pool after you’ve just gotten your tattoo, then maybe you should think twice and reschedule. While your tattoo is healing, avoid fully submerging your tattoo in any form of water, be it from a regular bath, a pool, or the ocean. However, regular showering is perfectly fine.
Be Wary of Strong, Direct Sunlight (For Now)
It’s best not to expose your new tattoo to strong sunlight. This increases its risk of fading, especially during its healing period. Protect your tattoo with clothing. You can also opt for a bandage if you’ll be out and about in strong sunlight for long periods of time.
What to Do When Your Tattoo is Healed
Wear Sunscreen
If all the scabbing has fallen off and your skin feels smooth to the touch once more, then good news: you’re all healed up! However, that doesn’t mean you get to stop caring for your tattoo. It’s still best to wear sunblock afterward, especially in the summer, to keep it from fading quickly.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
As with all skincare, moisture is key. That applies to your tattoo as well. If your tattoo is in an area that’s prone to quick fading (i.e. your hands, etc.), ensure you’re moisturizing it daily.
Tattoos are wonderful investments that you can love for years and years to come. But proper care, on both your end and on the tattoo artist’s end, is essential for it to keep from fading. If any issues arise, such as discoloration or light spots, it’s best to see your tattoo artist for a touch-up. However, if any medical issues such as rashes, strange discharge, or extreme irritation arise, it would be best to consult a medical professional on the matter.
Visit ZALORA Beauty today for more skincare must-haves.