For a perfect and long-lasting appearance of the tattoo, it is necessary not only to choose a skilled tattoo artist, but also find out how to care for the tattoo. Let’s go through a few points with us that will help to achieve a perfect result.
1) Choosing a tattoo studio
In the past, when choosing a tattoo artist, we were mainly guided by the experience of our relatives or friends. Nowadays online, everything is of course much easier, but the principle has remained the same. Choose a tattoo artist or salon based on reviews and customer experience, and of course you should have a tattoo license.
And don’t forget that tattoos will probably spend the rest of your life with you. So don’t skimp on it and don’t try to find the cheapest option. On the contrary, pay extra for quality and top-notch care.
2) Before you go to a tattoo artist
Have you already made an appointment for a tattoo? Then it’s time to get ready. And not just mentally. You should have healthy, undisturbed skin without eczema, injuries or scars and moles where your future tattoo is to be. Otherwise, consult a tattooist first. Even if the area is fine, it can’t hurt to give it regular care and hydration before tattooing.
And remember that 24 hours prior to tattooing, you must not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages or take psychotropic or other substances that may cause increased bleeding.
3) How to care for a new tattoo
Have you had a successful tattoo? Then comes the time for thorough care. The better you take care of your tattoo, the better the overall result will be. Normally, tattoos heal with scabs in 7 – 10 days, but you can also choose a faster modern method where a special film helps with the healing process.
Wash gently but effectively
Whether you opt for a classic foil or a modern bandage infused with nutrients, once the foil is off, the care is up to you. Once you’ve uncovered the tattoo, wash it off with lukewarm water and a mild antibacterial soap. Use a clean towel or paper towel to dry it – so that it cannot come into contact with bacteria.
Repeat the washing process 3 times a day and dry the site very carefully by applying a towel. Rubbing too vigorously could further erode the skin or tear the skin and tattoo ink.
Lube, lubricate, but don’t overdo it
If the wound is already healed and dry (usually on the 2nd – 3rd day after tattooing), it is necessary to always lubricate the tattoo after washing it off. For care, choose healing creams, which your tattoo artist will be happy to recommend. Apply the cream in a thin layer so that the skin can absorb it and the tattoo can breathe as it heals.
Continue lubrication ideally for two weeks or until the skin is completely healed. Smear at regular intervals 2 – 4 times a day. Keep the skin supple, especially during the time when the tattoo is forming scabs that might otherwise itch uncomfortably.
In the following weeks, instead of using a special product, a lighter cream containing panthenol, vitamin E or other ingredients that help skin regeneration will suffice.
4) Add as little as possible to the water
Unless the tattoo has completely healed, avoid water. Instead of a bath, opt for a quick shower and soak the tattoo for no more than the most necessary 2 – 3 minutes. Forget about public pools and bathing areas, ponds or the sea, which could give you a nasty infection.
5) Limit sun exposure and sports activities
Direct sun or tanning beds are definitely not suitable for a fresh tattoo. So just try to limit more strenuous sporting activities that could disrupt the tattoo – whether through movement or sweat. Also, don’t drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages for 24 hours after the tattoo, and avoid other substances that could make the tattoo bleed.
Other tattoo care tips
We’ve covered the basics in just five points, but we’ve got more tips on how to care for your tattoo and what to avoid.
- Maintain adequate hygiene – after all, a tattoo is an open wound through which dangerous substances or bacteria can enter the body.
- And after the tattoo has healed, lubricate with nourishing body creams and protect against the sun’s rays with a sufficiently strong sunscreen. This will keep it as good as new for many years.
- Do not cover the tattoo – unless it is a special healing film – and let it breathe freely. Wear loose comfortable clothing that will not press on the tattoo.
- Let healing proceed freely and do not peel the scabs. They will fall off on their own once the skin underneath has completely healed.
- Wear darker clothes that you won’t feel sorry for during the first week. This is because tattoos can sometimes let excess colour show through easily.
- Don’t let your tattoo dry out and keep it adequately hydrated at all times. An unhealed wound could easily crack.
