To care for your new tattoo, keep it clean and moisturized. Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer. Avoid direct sunlight, soaking in water, and wearing tight clothing over the tattoo.
Proper tattoo aftercare involves a series of steps and considerations that begin immediately after you leave the tattoo studio and continue for several weeks.
This guide will walk you through each phase of the healing process, from the first day to the final stages. It also provides tips on choosing the right skincare products and helps you understand what to expect as your tattoo heals.
If you have more questions or need a new tattoo, call (905) 897 3503. Our tattoo artists will answer all your questions and provide professional assistance.
Day 1: Immediately After Getting the Tattoo
Bandage: Your tattoo artist will apply a thin layer of ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage. Keep this bandage on for at least 24 hours to protect the area from bacteria and other contaminants.
Removing the Bandage: When ready to remove the bandage, wash your hands thoroughly. Soak the bandage in warm water to soften it before gently peeling it off.
Avoid Water in Tattoo Area: Cover it with vaseline when taking a shower. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the area.
Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of a recommended tattoo aftercare ointment or fragrance-free moisturizer like vaseline to keep the area hydrated.
Breathing: After moisturizing, leave the tattoo uncovered to allow it to breathe. Opt for loose, breathable options if you need to wear clothing over the area.
Days 2-3: Initial Healing Phase
Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of moisturizer or aftercare ointment 2-3 times a day to keep the skin hydrated and prevent scabbing.
Avoiding Irritants: Do not expose the tattoo to direct sunlight, avoid soaking it in water (such as baths, pools, or hot tubs), and refrain from scratching or picking at the tattoo.
Days 4-14: Active Healing Phase
Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of vaseline 2-3 times a day.
Itching and Flaking: It is normal for the tattooed area to start itching and flaking. Avoid scratching or picking at any scabs to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
Loose Clothing: Wear loose, soft clothing to reduce friction on the tattooed area.
Weeks 3-4: Final Healing Phase
Moisturizing: Continue to apply moisturizer as needed to keep the skin hydrated and to aid in the final stages of healing.
Sun Protection: Once the tattoo is fully healed, apply sunscreen to the area to protect it from UV rays, which can cause the tattoo to fade.
How to Choose Skincare Products for Tattoo Aftercare
Pick gentle cleansers and fragrance free moisturizers. Consider non-petroleum based ointments and products with mild ingredients.
1. Gentle Cleansers
Mild and Fragrance-Free: To wash your tattoo, select a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Fragrances and harsh chemicals can irritate the skin and potentially cause allergic reactions.
pH-Balanced: Use a pH-balanced cleanser to maintain the natural protective barrier of your skin. This helps in reducing the risk of infections and promotes faster healing.
Hypoallergenic: Opt for hypoallergenic products to minimize the risk of skin reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin.
2. Moisturizers
Fragrance-Free and Dye-Free: Choose a fragrance-free and dye-free moisturizer. These additives can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process.
Non-Comedogenic: Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer which does not clog pores. This helps prevent breakouts and keeps the tattooed area clean and breathable.
Ingredients to Look For:
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera helps reduce redness and inflammation.
Glycerin: A humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, keeping the tattoo hydrated.
Hyaluronic Acid: Helps retain skin moisture and promotes healing by enhancing skin elasticity and hydration.
3. Ointments
Non-Petroleum Based: While some recommend petroleum-based products, non-petroleum-based ointments are often preferred as they allow the skin to breathe better and reduce the risk of pore blockage.
Antibacterial Properties: Consider ointments with mild antibacterial properties to prevent infection without causing irritation.
4. Sunscreen
Broad-Spectrum Protection: Once the tattoo is fully healed, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause fading and damage to the tattoo.
SPF 30 or Higher: Ensure the sunscreen has an SPF of at least 30 for adequate protection against sun exposure.
Mineral-Based: Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate compared to chemical sunscreens.
5. Avoid Harsh Ingredients
Alcohol-Free: Avoid products containing alcohol, as it can dry out the skin and cause irritation.
No Exfoliants: Avoid products with exfoliating agents like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which can disrupt the healing process and damage the new tattoo.
Avoid Artificial Colors and Preservatives: These can irritate the skin and should be avoided to ensure a smooth healing process.
What to Expect as Your New Tattoo Heals
Days 1-3: Initial Healing Phase: Immediately after getting your tattoo, the area will be red and swollen and may ooze a clear fluid mixed with ink. This is a normal inflammatory response as your body begins to heal. The tattoo may feel tender and warm to the touch.
Days 4-14: Scabbing and Itching: Around the fourth day, your tattoo will start to form scabs. It’s essential not to pick or scratch at these scabs, as doing so can lead to infection and ink loss. The area may become itchy as it heals, so you can tap on the tattoo to relieve the itchiness. Keep the tattoo mositurized still.
Days 15-30: Peeling and Flaking: In the third and fourth weeks, the scabs will begin to flake off naturally. During this period, your tattoo might look dull or cloudy as the top layer of dead skin sheds. Continue to keep the area moisturized and avoid direct sunlight.
Weeks 4-6: Final Healing Phase: By the end of the first month, most of the surface healing will be complete, and the tattoo will start to look more vibrant. However, the deeper layers of skin will continue to repair over the next few weeks. Maintain good skincare practices, such as moisturizing and sun protection, to support the final stages of healing.
Call Our Tattoo Artists to Get Your New Ink
Call our talented tattoo artists in Mississauga to get your new ink! Located conveniently in the heart of Mississauga, Xtremities Tattoo & Piercing Studio is known for its experienced artists and award-winning service. We offer many tattoo styles, from intricate custom designs to well-priced flash tattoos.
Our tattoo studio maintains the highest hygiene standards to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Open seven days a week, we are always ready to accommodate your schedule. Contact us at 905-897-3503 to book your appointment and transform your tattoo ideas into reality.
FAQs
What is the perfect aftercare for a tattoo?
The perfect aftercare for a tattoo involves keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized to promote healing. Apply a thin layer of a recommended tattoo aftercare ointment or unscented moisturizer to keep the area hydrated. Avoid direct sunlight, soaking in water, and wearing tight clothing over the tattoo during the healing process.
What not to do after getting a tattoo?
After getting a tattoo, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, soaking it in water (pools, hot tubs, or baths), and scratching or picking at the scabs. Do not apply heavy lotions or ointments that can clog pores and hinder healing. Refrain from wearing tight clothing that can rub against the tattoo, and avoid strenuous activities that may cause excessive sweating.
How long should you keep a new tattoo covered?
You should keep a new tattoo covered for the first few hours to protect it from bacteria and other contaminants. After removing the initial bandage, avoid re-covering the tattoo unless instructed by your tattoo artist. Let the tattoo breathe, and continue with moisturizing.
When can I fully shower after a tattoo?
You can fully shower after getting a tattoo, but avoid submerging the tattooed area in water for extended periods. Apply a thin layer of vaseline to protect the area from water. Avoid using a washcloth or loofah on the tattoo and pat it dry gently with a clean towel.
Why is my tattoo fading after 3 days?
If your tattoo appears to be fading after 3 days, it may be due to the natural healing process where the top layer of the skin is shedding. This can give the appearance of fading. Ensure you follow aftercare instructions, avoid excessive sun exposure, and keep the tattoo moisturized to help preserve its color.
How often should I moisturize a new tattoo?
You should moisturize a new tattoo 2-3 times a day, using a thin layer of fragrance-free and alcohol-free lotion or a tattoo-specific aftercare product. Over-moisturizing can hinder the healing process, so ensure you apply just enough to keep the skin hydrated.
How to make a tattoo heal faster?
To make a tattoo heal faster, keep the area clean and moisturized, follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions, avoid direct sunlight, and stay hydrated. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also support the healing process. Avoid picking at scabs and wear loose clothing to reduce friction on the tattoo.
When should you start aftercare for a new tattoo?
You should start aftercare for a new tattoo as soon as you remove the initial bandage, usually within a few hours after getting the tattoo.
What should you avoid after getting a new tattoo?
After getting a new tattoo, avoid direct sunlight, soaking the tattoo in water (such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or baths), and applying heavy lotions or ointments that can clog pores. Refrain from wearing tight clothing that might rub against the tattoo and from engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating. Avoid scratching or picking at the tattoo to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
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