aftercare
Every artist you work with will have their own guidance on how to care for the tattoo upon leaving the studio. Personally, I like to take a very simple approach to the healing process and let your body do all the hard work. I typically cover my tattoos once completed with a dri-lock bandage that is to stay on for 30 minutes to an hour. Always wash your hands before tending to your new tattoo to keep from introducing bacteria. With the bandage removed and hands cleaned, rinse the tattoo off with warm water. Hot water will burn so adjust to your comfort. Using antibacterial soap, massage the tattoo thoroughly and wash away any excess debris from the session. Once you’ve cleaned your new tattoo you can pat or press it dry with a new wash rag or paper towel every time. Now you can apply your moisturizer of choice. With so many options out there I recommend just going with a plain minimal ingredient body lotion. Soaps and lotions that have scents may burn due to the excessive ingredients and perfumes they are made with. I recommend repeating this process around 3 times per day for the next two weeks.
Fresh: Redness and swelling may occur. It is normal for there to be a slight burning sensation. Ink, blood, and or plasma may appear on your clothing or bed sheets the first couple days. Clean thoroughly to avoid.
1-2 weeks into healing: Redness and swelling should subside within a few days. At about 1-2 weeks your tattoo will begin to peel like a sunburn. Avoid picking/peeling at your new tattoo to ensure a smooth heal. Some scabbing may occur, if this is the case let the area dry out and fall off on its own.
3+ weeks: Your new tattoo should be almost completely healed. Your tattoo will still settle over the next few months and may change slightly from when you first got it. This is normal. To keep your tattoo in its best shape; apply sunscreen when in the sun, avoid picking at it during healing, and choose your artist wisely!
