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Tattoo Aftercare

Tattoo aftercare is crucial to ensure proper healing and to maintain the appearance of your tattoo. This is what you need to do:

Right After Getting Your Tattoo Done

  • Before you leave the shop I will cover your fresh tattoo with plastic wrap. Leave it on for two or three hours to protect the area from bacteria and to allow the tattoo to absorb any excess ink and fluids.

  • Cover the tattoo so it doesn’t get any sun exposure.

  • Have a big meal, it's important to nourish your body to support the healing process; and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps with the healing process and keeps your skin moisturized.

  • Alcohol: it is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours after getting a tattoo, as alcohol can thin your blood and act as a blood thinner, which may increase bleeding and slow down the healing process. You can of course have a well deserved pint or cocktail after your tattoo session, but don’t get wasted, as alcohol can impair your judgment and coordination, which may affect your ability to properly care for your new tattoo.

  • After two to three hours, wash your hands and proceed to remove the bandage. Gently wash the tattooed area with mild, alcohol and fragrance-free soap and water. Once it’s clean, tap dry the area dry with a clean kitchen towel. Please don’t use a regular towel (or the ones you use after the shower) as we hang them dry, do they can be dusty or not clean.

  • Cover the tattoo again with a new plastic wrap. Keep it on until the next morning.

  • Wear baggy clothes to go to bed, so bed sheets don’t rub against the fresh tattoo.

  • Be mindful of sleeping positions to avoid putting pressure on the tattooed area. Try to find a position that minimizes contact with the tattoo, so for example if you have a back tattoo, sleep on your front.

The Next Morning

  • Wash your hands and remove the bandage. This is the last one, so you won’t be putting a new one again. Gently wash the tattooed area with mild, alcohol and fragrance-free soap and water. Make sure you wash it properly, removing any dirt or excess of ink on your skin. Once it’s clean, tap dry the area dry with a clean kitchen towel. Please don’t use a regular towel (or the ones you use after the shower) as we hang them dry, so they can be dusty or not clean.

  • Apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer, once the tattoo is clean and dry. Avoid using petroleum-based products (like vaseline) as they can clog pores and hinder the healing process. Make sure you only apply a small amount of cream, as otherwise your skin won’t be able to breathe properly and it can cause an infection.

General Aftercare

Make sure you follow all these aftercare instructions for two weeks after getting your tattoo done, as all of them are very important to ensure good results:

Keep It Clean

  • Wash your tattoo with water and soap two to three times a day, to remove any excess of cream and keep the area clean. Carefully tap dry with kitchen towels.

  • Use mild, fragrance-free soap; gently clean the area without scrubbing or rubbing too harshly.

  • Pat dry gently: After the bath, pat the tattooed area dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing or using excessive force, as this can cause irritation or damage to the tattoo.

Soaking Your Tattoo

  • Avoid excessive moisture and soaking; while it's important to keep your tattoo moisturized, avoid excessive moisture, such as swimming, soaking in hot tubs, or taking long showers. These activities can soften the scabs and increase the risk of infection. You can of course shower every day, but please make it quick!

  • Prolonged exposure to water can soften the scabs that form during the healing process. This can increase the risk of scabs being pulled off prematurely, which may result in patchy healing or loss of ink. It's generally recommended to wait until your tattoo is fully healed before swimming in the sea or any other bodies of water. The healing time can vary depending on the size and location of the tattoo, but it typically takes around 2-4 weeks for the initial healing stage to complete.

  • Why can’t I swim in the sea with a fresh tattoo?

    • Exposure to bacteria and contaminants: The sea water may contain bacteria, microorganisms, and other contaminants that can increase the risk of infection in a fresh tattoo. Open wounds, such as those created during the tattooing process, are more susceptible to infection.

    • Irritation and damage to the tattoo: The saltwater and waves can cause irritation and damage to the tattooed area. The abrasive nature of the saltwater and the movement of the waves can disrupt the healing process, leading to potential complications like scabbing, fading, or loss of ink.

  • Why can’t I swim in a swimming pool?

    • Exposure to bacteria and contaminants: Swimming pools, especially public ones, can contain bacteria, microorganisms, and other contaminants that can increase the risk of infection in a fresh tattoo. Open wounds, such as those created during the tattooing process, are more susceptible to infection.

    • Chemicals in the pool water: Chlorine and other chemicals used to treat pool water can be harsh on a fresh tattoo. These chemicals can cause irritation, dryness, and potentially fade or damage the tattoo. The tattooed area needs time to heal and form a protective barrier before being exposed to such chemicals.

Cream

  • Once the tattooed area is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of ointment over the tattoo. Do this three times a day (or any time you feel your skin is too dry; it’s always best to apply a small amount of cream more times a day, than applying a thick layer). Make sure you always wash your hands beforehand.

  • Avoid excessive application; while it's important to keep the tattoo moisturized, it's equally important not to overapply the ointment. Applying too much ointment can suffocate the tattoo and hinder the healing process. A thin layer is sufficient to keep the tattoo moisturized.

  • Never use vaseline to heal your tattoo! Vaseline forms a barrier on the skin, which can trap moisture and heat. This can create an environment that is too moist and warm for proper healing, potentially leading to issues like excessive scabbing, delayed healing, or increased risk of infection. It also blocks the pores and prevents the tattooed area from "breathing." Proper airflow is important for the healing process, as it allows the skin to receive oxygen and expel any excess moisture or toxins. As I’ve just mentioned, it that can clog the pores, potentially leading to issues like acne or folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles). Clogged pores can also hinder the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Protect It

  • Protect your tattoo from the sun: UV rays can fade and damage your tattoo, so it's important to keep it protected from the sun. Make sure you always cover your tattoo with baggy clothes once you are outdoors. Clothes will also protect your fresh tattoo from any dirty the wind might carry so it doesn’t get infected.

  • Avoid picking or scratching. It’s normal for your tattoo to scab and itch during the healing process. However, resist the urge to pick or scratch at the scabs, as this can lead to scarring or color loss. Instead, gently pat or tap the itchy area, or apply a small amount of cream.

  • Don’t practice exercise, or any activities which makes you sweat, as this can cause an infection.

Clothing

  • Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing, as it allows air circulation and reduces friction against the tattooed area, promoting healing and minimizing irritation.

  • Avoid tight clothing and excessive friction or anything that may rub against your tattoo. Friction can cause irritation and slow down the healing process.

  • Choose clothing that covers and protects the tattoo from direct sunlight and potential irritants.

  • Ensure that the clothing you wear during the healing process is clean and freshly washed. Dirty or unwashed clothing can introduce bacteria or irritants to the tattooed area, increasing the risk of infection or irritation.

Time to Sleep

Choosing the right sleeping position after getting a tattoo can help promote proper healing and prevent discomfort.

  • Avoid sleeping directly on the tattooed area. Pressure and friction from the body weight can cause irritation, disrupt the healing process, and potentially damage the tattoo. Find a sleeping position that allows you to keep the tattooed area free from direct contact with the bed or pillow.

  • Use clean bedding; ensure that your bedding is clean and freshly washed to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria or irritants to the tattooed area, specially if you’ve got pets.

  • Avoid tight or restrictive clothing; your tattoo may come into contact with clothing during sleep, choose loose-fitting and breathable garments to minimize friction and irritation. Tight or restrictive clothing can rub against the tattoo and impede the healing process. I would recommend to always sleep with clothing on, to minimize the risk of the tattoo rubbing against the bed sheets.

Pets

  • Avoid direct contact; try to prevent your pet from coming into direct contact with the tattooed area. Pets have bacteria on their fur and paws, which can increase the risk of infection if they come into contact with the fresh tattoo. Additionally, their movements or playful behavior may accidentally cause damage or irritation to the tattoo.

  • Prevent licking or scratching; pets may be curious about the tattoo or may try to lick or scratch the area, which can introduce bacteria, irritate the tattoo, and potentially cause damage.

  • Maintain a clean environment; keep your living space clean and free from pet hair and other potential allergens that could irritate the tattooed area.

Healing Areas That Tend to Swell Up

Healing areas that tend to swell up, such as the elbow or knee, requires some extra care. Here are some tips to help reduce swelling and promote healing:

  • Elevate the area whenever possible. This can help reduce swelling by allowing excess fluid to drain away from the area.

  • You can apply clean cold compresses or ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth and gently apply it to the swollen area for 10-15 minutes at a time. This can help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Be sure to take breaks between applications to avoid excessive cold exposure.

  • Take anti-inflammatory measures: consider taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or medical conditions.

  • Avoid excessive movement; try to minimize movements that can aggravate the swollen area, especially bending or stretching the joint. This can help prevent further irritation and promote healing.

  • Wear loose clothing that won't rub against or constrict the tattooed area. This can help reduce irritation and allow for better airflow.