TATTOO AFTERCARE
Some advices
GENERAL INFORMATION
Proper tattoo aftercare is essential to ensuring its quality over time. In this guide, you will find some essential tips for caring for your tattoo step by step.
To get off to a good start with the care process, it is important to understand that your tattoo goes through several stages of healing. From the initial inflammatory phase to the peeling and discolouration phase, each stage requires specific care to achieve the best results. Remember that every tattoo heals differently, as everybody is different. This guide is only a general guideline, and healing time may vary from person to person.
DAY ONE
- Remove the initial dressing between 2 and 4 hours after the session to protect the new tattoo from bacteria.
- Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
- Gently clean the tattoo with warm water and a pH-neutral antibacterial soap. Rinse thoroughly and, above all, avoid rubbing! Harsh scrubbing is definitely a no-no here.
- Pat, don’t rub: let it air dry or use clean paper towels. Do not rub the tattoo with paper; dry it by gently patting it.
- Do not cover the tattoo.
- Wait 48 hours before moisturising it.
HEALING PROCESS
It is completely normal for redness or swelling to appear around the tattooed area in the first few hours or the first 3 days. You may even experience a slight fever within 12 hours of getting the tattoo. If the fever persists and is very high, you should contact a health center as it could be a symptom of infection.
During the healing phase, scabs and dead skin may appear, making the tattoo look a little blurry, but do not touch them under any circumstances! If you are tempted to remove them before they come off naturally, be aware that this could alter your tattoo and cause ‘gapes’ in the ink.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Make sure the tattoo is always clean, paying particular attention during the first week:
- Wash it two to three times a day during the first week, repeating the advice given in the “Day one“.
- Leave it to dry for about 20 minutes.
- Apply your tattoo aftercare cream: Begin applying a thin layer of your chosen aftercare cream to keep the tattoo moisturised. The tattoo should not be greasy or covered in cream; use the cream to relieve any dryness or itching.
- After 7 days, wash it once a day and apply the cream when you need it. Gradually resume normal activities: As the tattoo heals, reintroduce regular activities while remaining cautious of any irritation or signs of infection.
- Resist the itch: As the tattoo peels, resist the urge to scratch. Instead, moisturise in small amounts and let the dead skin slough off naturally.
And always remember, It’s BETTER TO HAVE A DRY TATTOO THAN ONE THAT IS TOO MOISTURISED !
MONTHS 1-3: SETTLING INTO PERMANENCE
Touch-up consideration: Some tattoos may require touch-ups; consult with your artist if needed.
WHAT NOT TO DO!
- Do not reapply the tattoo bandage after the first day!
- Do not use wipes, sponges or washcloths to wash the tattoo.
- Do not dry it with a towel. Shower towels are breeding grounds for bacteria.
- Do not touch the tattoo with dirty hands. Do not let anyone else do so.
- Do not apply too much cream. The tattoo should not be covered. A dry tattoo is preferable to an overly moisturised tattoo, as excess moisture can cause small spots to appear, swelling lines, and other reactions.
- Do not use products containing perfume, alcohol or cortisone.
- Do not expose the tattoo to the sun (even artificial sunlight) for at least 3 weeks. After healing, always protect your tattoo with sunscreen, as UV rays damage the ink, sunscreen helps prevent fading and preserves the longevity of your tattoo.
- Do not immerse it in water (no swimming pools, lakes or sea) or in a sauna or steam room.
- NEVER, EVER scratch your tattoo!
- Avoid contact sports or any activity where you risk getting hit on the tattoo, sweating a lot or stretching the skin too much.
MATERIALS NEEDED TO CARE FOR YOUR NEW TATTOO
· Neutral soap
· Tattoo cream ( look for creams containing gentle, natural ingredients. You don’t want anything too harsh that may irritate your healing skin.)