Aftercare
Getting a tattoo isn't just about the time you spend with the artist. Just as important is the part you play in helping the tattoo heal well. Remember that a fresh tattoo is an open wound, and so cleanliness is EXTREMELY important. Follow these instructions very carefully, and you should find that your tattoo heals very nicely indeed!
· Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your new tattoo.
· Take the dressing off after 2 hours.
· Wash your tattoo VERY carefully using lukewarm water, a mild, unscented soap such as Dove, and your hand. Don't
use a washcloth or anything abrasive.
· Carefully PAT the tattoo dry using a CLEAN towel, or preferably paper towel.
· Allow the tattoo to air dry for 5-10 minutes.
· Apply a small amount of nappy/diaper rash cream (I find Bepanthen to work particularly well), gently rubbing it into the entire tattoo.
· Repeat 3-5 times daily until the tattoo is fully healed.
REMEMBER
· You can (and should) shower with a new tattoo, but try to avoid the water directly hitting the tattoo.
· It's important not to soak the new tattoo, so don't take a bath while it's healing.
· Don't swim with a new tattoo. Stay out of the pool for 2-3 weeks to make sure.
· No sunbathing! Don't expose a new tattoo to direct sunlight for a month or two. That includes tanning
beds.
· Don't scratch or pick at your new tattoo. It will become flaky after a few days, and there may even be a
little scabbing. Resist the urge to scratch the itch, or to pick at the flakes – you'll take the pigment out!
LONG TERM AFTERCARE
· Like most pigments, your tattoo will be faded by too much exposure to UV rays. If you're going out in
the sun, or going on a tanning bed, make sure that you apply a high SPF sunblock to your tattoo. I use
SPF50 to be sure.
· From time to time, exfoliate the skin where your tattoo is.
· Regular application of a good moisturizer will keep your tattoo looking bright and fresh.
Taking care of your tattoo is your responsibility. Don't waste a good tattoo by treating it badly! Follow these
steps, and your tattoo will look great for a very long time.
To download a copy of this information, click the link below.
| tattoo_aftercare.pdf |
