Getting a tattoo is an important life decision. Once the image is inked on the body, one can't easily change one's mind. Aftercare of a tattoo is thus the key to preventing infection, speeding the healing process and keeping your tattoo looking bright.
After the Tattoo:
When the masterpiece is finished, the tattoo artist will usually wrap this new work of skin art in a thin plastic film, taped at the edges. Some artists use gauze as an alternative. Keep this on for a few hours.Usually two is enough. Then take it off carefully. Some artists won't cover the tattoo at all. If that's the case, make sure that it doesn't stick to either clothes or sheets. After a few hours, wash the tattoo gently in unscented soap and warm water. Dove or Pears are good choices. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Helping the Healing:
Getting bacteria in a tattoo will cause infection. This will irritate the skin and dull the colours. Tattooists have different opinions about ointment. Some will tell their clients to let the tattoo air-dry and it will heal faster. Others suggest applying a thin coat of a healing gel on the tattoo several times a day.
Karen Hudson suggests “a specialty product such as Tattoo Goo or H2Ocean,” though many over-the-counter products also work. Don't use Polysporin or its derivatives, though. They are for healing infection, not preventing it! “Maintain moisture and allow oxygen” as Nicole Allard emphasizes. Keep moisturizing your tattoo “for 2-3 weeks." Att the beginning, according to Pat Fish, owner of the Santa Barbara tattoo shop, it's “not too much to put it on once an hour.”
Don't let the skin grow tight with dryness and don't let it suffocate under layers of clothing. Most importantly, expect that the tattoo will scab. Don't pick at it or scratch it. This will ruin the colour and increase the chance of infection. Allow it to heal naturally.
Keeping it Beautiful:
Never let water run directly on your tattoo until it is healed. Try not to soak too long in the tub. The main key to keeping the tattoo bold is to stay out of the sun. Tanning or burning will break down the colours and fade your work of art. Apply a sunscreen lotion of 30 SPF if you must be outside for prolonged periods of time.
Once the tattoo is completely healed, touchups are sometimes required to strengthen lines and darken shading. After this, it will heal again quickly. Enjoy the beauty of your tattoo's self expression for years.
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