Correct Tattoo Aftercare: The Complete Guide

When getting a tattoo, everyone aims to preserve its original form as long as possible. While the session and the tattoo's quality depend on the tattoo artist's skill and professionalism, maintaining the tattoo's appearance after leaving the studio becomes your responsibility.

The process of tattoo care begins immediately after the session ends, and if there are multiple sessions, this procedure should be repeated after each one.

After the session, the tattoo artist removes excess ink and fluids by cleaning the tattoo site with an antiseptic solution. Subsequently, depending on the session's agreement and included services, the artist covers the fresh tattoo (usually with a film similar to cling film), secures it to the skin with a bandage, and sends you home.

It is recommended to keep cling film on for no longer than 2 hours.

Ways to Heal a Tattoo in the First Days

Care With a Special Film

Progress never stands still, which means various types of specialized films for tattoo healing have been available on the market for quite some time. These films make the healing process easier for those who need to work or study during the recovery period.

- Specialized tattoo care films are sold in tattoo stores, studios, and shops.

- With these films, you can take a shower as they prevent water from passing through. However, avoid soaking or steaming the tattoo.

- The films are breathable, allowing air to pass through while keeping water out.

- In the initial days, liquid may accumulate under the film, which is normal. Never damage the film, as it can lead to infection. After a few days, the wound will naturally dry out.

- The recommended duration for wearing the film varies depending on the manufacturer, but on average, it's 4-5 days.

Classic Tattoo Care

Classic tattoo care involves the use of readily available materials like standard baby absorbent diapers, antibacterial soap, paper towels, and healing creams/ointments.

Here are the steps for healing a tattoo in the first few days using the classic method:

After returning home, remove the film and rinse the tattoo under running water with a small amount of antibacterial soap. Avoid applying excessive pressure while rinsing. Rinse off any fluid that has escaped from under the skin with gentle movements. Don't worry; you won't wash away anything important.

After rinsing, pat the tattoo with a paper towel and allow it to air dry. Never rub a fresh tattoo.

After drying, apply a healing cream/ointment to the wound and cover it with a baby diaper.

Repeat this procedure every 3-4 hours during the first three days of healing.

Once the tattoo forms a thin film similar to a sunburn, discontinue using the diaper bandage and maintain the tattoo's moisture with a healing cream/ointment.

Subsequent Tattoo Care

After removing the film, the subsequent healing process remains similar to the classic method.

- Never rub the tattoo if it itches.

- Avoid peeling off crusts as it may risk infection. Continue applying the healing cream/ointment.

- Wash the tattoo with warm water and antibacterial soap 2-3 times a day.

- Use a small amount of healing cream/ointment for moisturizing, which can be pharmacy creams with panthenol or specialized tattoo healing products.

- Do not overapply the cream/ointment; a thin layer is sufficient for the tattoo.

- The healing process typically takes 10-20 days, depending on the tattoo's size and location.

What You Should Not Do During Healing

Avoid direct sunlight during the entire healing process and for the next 2-3 months. Although your tattoo may appear healed after a couple of weeks, the skin protecting it remains sensitive to external influences.

The sun's rays can fade pigment brightness, making your tattoo appear lighter than desired. It's advisable to cover your tattoo with clothing or apply high SPF sunscreen, such as SPF 50+, when going out in the sun.

Under no circumstances should you expose your tattoo to steam, including hot showers and baths. You can enjoy water treatments as before once your tattoo has fully healed.

Avoid swimming in open water bodies or pools during the healing period to reduce the risk of infection.

During the healing of your tattoo, avoid wearing clothing with synthetic fibers, as they can irritate the tattoo site. If using the classic healing method, monitor any dressing "leakage." Avoid tight clothing that may impede oxygen flow required for healing.

Refrain from physical activities during the healing period, including gym workouts, weightlifting, and vigorous exercise, as it can hinder skin regeneration and prolong healing.

Refrain from consuming alcohol and medications from antiplatelet (e.g., aspirin) and anticoagulant (e.g., heparin) groups during the healing period.

Do not use alcohol-based preparations on the tattoo.

How To Care For a Tattoo After Healing

This information is especially relevant during the summer when we shed layers of clothing and embrace the sun. However, sunlight can be a significant threat to your tattoo's longevity. To ensure your tattoo stays vibrant for years, consider the following:

When exposed to the sun, use high SPF sunscreen or cover your tattoo with clothing to maintain its original appearance.

Avoid damaging the skin surrounding your tattoo; deep cuts can affect the tattoo's integrity. If such damage occurs, consult your tattoo artist for corrections.

Minimize contact between the tattooed skin and household chemicals.

Consume foods rich in vitamin E and stay hydrated. These foods include nuts, avocados, shrimp, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, and vegetable oils. This will help retain your tattoo's brightness.