After you get a new tattoo, you'll likely be anxious for your skin to heal quickly. The skin around the tattoo site will be sore and itchy for several days after the ink work is complete. You may be anxious to show off your new tattoo. However, proper care is necessary to ensure that the tattoo heals correctly, and to prevent the inks from fading during the healing process.
Step 1
Take off the gauze or plastic wrap one to two hours after your tattoo is completed, advises the Sharp Tattoos website. This will allow the skin to breathe, which will promote proper healing.
Step 2
Wash the tattoo site gently with warm water and a mild skin cleanser. Use a soft cloth to cleanse the tattoo site. Gently pat the tattoo site dry with a clean cloth.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly over the entire tattoo. This will help keep the tattoo from drying out and will minimize the formation of scabs. Reapply when the skin at the tattoo site feels dry or stiff.
Step 4
Wear loose clothing that covers the tattoo before any activity where you will be exposed to sunlight. Wet the clothing around the tattoo site if the clothing sticks to your tattoo.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply sunscreen to the tattoo after it has completely healed, if your tattoo will be exposed to the sun. However, you should not apply sunscreen to the tattoo during the healing process.
- Avoid using ointments that contain neomycin if you are allergic to this drug. An allergic reaction may occur in the form of red bumps at the tattoo site. Avoid exposing your tattoo to sunlight, particularly during the healing phase. Sunlight can cause your tattoo to fade. Avoid scrubbing the tattoo site during cleansing. This can remove the protective layer of skin that forms after the tattoo is complete, which may cause the ink to fade.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Mild antimicrobial soap
- Soft washcloth
- Petroleum jelly
- Loose clothing
- Sunscreen
Member Comments