Now that you have a stunning new tattoo, let's talk about Aftercare. There is no understating the significance of properly caring for and cleaning your tattoo. We at Trade Street Tattoo want to provide you with some helpful tips to ensure your art heals well and maintains its vibrancy for years to come.
When your tattoo is complete the artist will apply an ointment to the area and wrap it with a bandage. Your artist should instruct you as to how long you should keep your bandage on, typically you will want to keep it on for 45 mins to an hour or until you get home.
When you are ready to remove the protective bandage, immediately rinse your tattoo with lukewarm water and wash it with an unscented, antibacterial soap. Avoid scrubbing too harshly or using rough materials that could irritate the skin. Be sure to pat dry as rubbing can cause irritation and scab removal, leaving your new tattoo looking patchy.
Once your tattoo is clean and dry, it's important to keep it moisturized. Applying a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment or unscented moisturizer will help keep the skin hydrated and prevent scabbing. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by your tattoo artist or consult with them for their recommended aftercare products.
During your first day of healing you may notice a range of possible changes. You should expect your skin to be red, sore and warm to the touch. You may notice fluid leaking out of your tattoo; this is your blood plasma and a little extra tattoo ink. All of these reactions are normal and part of the healing process.
As your tattoo heals you should continue washing it as usual at least twice a day and moisturize with a thin layer of tattoo-safe lotion after each wash. We suggest reaching out to your artist for any product recommendations. You may also apply this lotion throughout the day if your skin begins to feel dry. During the later stages of healing you can expect some scabbing and flaking of the skin, this is normal but it's important not to pick or scratch at the area, it will come off on its own.
During the healing process, it's crucial to protect your tattoo from certain activities and environments. Avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade the colors and cause damage to the skin. It's also important to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas, as these environments can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Additionally, wearing loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area and avoiding excessive sweating can aid in the healing process.
By taking the time to care for your tattoo properly, you can enjoy your new piece of art for a lifetime. If you have any questions or concerns about your aftercare routine, don't hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist. They are there to support you throughout the healing process and beyond.