Proper aftercare is crucial for the longevity and appearance of your new tattoo. Follow these simple steps to keep your tattoo looking its best
Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, but it's important to remember that proper aftercare is essential for the longevity and appearance of your new ink. Follow these simple steps to ensure that your tattoo heals properly and looks its best for years to come.
Gently wash the tattoo with mild soap and water
After getting a new tattoo, it's important to keep the area clean to prevent infection and promote proper healing. Gently wash the tattoo with mild soap and water, using your fingertips (rather than an abrasive washcloth or sponge) to gently rub away any excess blood or ink. Some important qualities to look for in a tattoo soap include making sure it's hypoallergenic, fragrance free, anti bacterial and anti microbial. We particularly love Coraline's Calming Chamomile Soap or Odylique's Aloe Vera Body Wash which are both essential oil free, non-foamy and very gentle.
When washing, avoid using a washcloth or sponge, as these can be too harsh on the delicate skin. Rinse the area thoroughly and air, rather than pat dry. If you prefer to pat dry, consider using some paper towel rather than cotton towelling which may shed fibres and fluff. Do not rub the area, as this can cause irritation and damage to the tattoo.
Apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer
After washing and drying your new tattoo, it's important to apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer to keep the area hydrated and promote healing. Your tattoo artist will most likely give you some advice on this but generally a fragrance free, gentle lotion or balm that uses healing and soothing ingredients is a must.
With clean hands, apply the ointment or moisturizer gently, making sure to cover the entire tattooed area. Remember, the skin is open, just like a wound so we recommend using products with a pump or, if it's a pot of ointment, a clean spatula to dispense your products hygienically. These ones from UpCircle Beauty come in handy.
Avoid using too much product, as this can clog pores (particularly if it's coconut based) and delay healing. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for the first few days after getting your tattoo.
Look for coconut oil based products because coconut oil is full of fatty acids, vitamins and anti oxidants that promote healing. It's also anti-microbial too. Our favourites are Ezape Naturals Chamomile Balm and Nom Nom Baby Butter.
Avoid picking or scratching the tattoo
It's important to resist the urge to pick or scratch your new tattoo, as this can cause damage to the skin and affect the appearance of the tattoo. Picking at scabs or flakes can also increase the risk of infection. If you experience itching or discomfort, try gently tapping or slapping the area instead of scratching or patting on a soothing water-based lotion like Odylique's Repair Lotion which can be gently patted into the skin and contains healing and soothing calendula and chickweed (a great alternative too if you don't like heavy balms or ointments). If the itching persists, talk to your tattoo artist or a dermatologist for advice on how to manage it. Remember, taking good care of your new tattoo is essential for ensuring it looks its best for years to come.
Protect the tattoo from the sun
Immediately after getting a new tattoo, it's important to avoid exposing it to the sun for at least two weeks. Longer term though, sun exposure can cause the tattoo to fade and lose its vibrancy. If you need to be in the sun, cover the tattoo with clothing or a bandage and use a high SPF sunscreen.