How Should You Care For Your New Tattoo?
Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, but it's important to care for it properly to ensure it heals well and looks great. Here's a guide on how to care for your new tattoo before, during, and after your appointment.
Leading Up to Your Appointment
Proper preparation before your tattoo appointment can significantly impact the healing process and overall experience. Follow these steps to get ready:
Hydrate: Dehydration thins the skin and can make the session more painful. Drink plenty of water the day before your appointment, not just on the day of. Staying hydrated also helps with circulation, improving healing time.
Get Enough Sleep: Ensure you get a good night's sleep before your appointment. Being well-rested can help you manage the pain and stress better.
Avoid Excessive Alcohol or Caffeine: These substances can contribute to blood thinning and dehydration, making the tattooing process more difficult and potentially increasing bleeding.
Eat a Well-Balanced Meal: Eating a nutritious meal can help prevent drops in blood sugar levels, which can cause dizziness or fainting during the session.
Shower and Moisturize: Clean and moisturize your skin before your session to ensure it is in the best condition to receive ink.
Immediately After Your Appointment
After your tattoo is complete, your artist will apply a bandage or covering to protect the fresh ink. Here’s what you should know:
Bandage or Covering: Many artists use medical adhesives, such as second-skin bandages, to seal the tattooed area from outside elements. Depending on the brand or artist preference, a medical-grade adhesive bandage will typically stay on for 3 to 6 days. If your artist uses stretch film, it’s generally applied for the first evening and then reapplied after gently cleansing the area.
Plasma Build-Up: For larger tattoos, a build-up of plasma may cause the tattoo to appear blurred. This is natural and generally a good sign; it does not mean your tattoo is blurring.
After the Bandaging Has Been Removed
Proper aftercare is crucial once the bandage is removed. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal healing:
Cleaning Your Tattoo:
Use Lukewarm Water and Unscented, Mild Liquid Soap: We recommend La Roche Posay Hydrating Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. Avoid any chemical and physical exfoliants. If using bar soap, lather it separately and then gently apply it over the tattoo.
Pat Dry or Air Dry: We prefer air drying because towels can harbor bacteria even if washed constantly.
Selecting an Aftercare Product: For the first two to three weeks, avoid products with petrolatum-based ingredients. Instead, look for a lightweight, nourishing formula that supports your skin’s natural barrier and aids in the healing process. Ingredients such as aloe vera and bisabolol (from chamomile) act as anti-inflammatory soothing agents and provide relief to itchy or irritated skin.
Application: Apply a small amount of the aftercare product, gently massaging it in circular motions to cover the tattooed area. Repeat this two to three times a day. It’s better to use a smaller amount more often than a large amount less frequently.
Additional Tips:
Avoid Tight or Abrasive Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes to prevent irritation and allow your tattoo to breathe.
Do Not Scratch or Disturb: Be mindful not to scratch or disturb the freshly tattooed area.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your new tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrant appearance. For more tips and information, visit our homepage.
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