Tattoo Care
If you think getting inked is enough to have a tattoo, then you can’t be more wrong. You have to take care of the tattoo to make sure you don’t get any skin infection. To help you further, here are some tips for tattoo care.
The Bandage
After getting done with a tattoo, the artist will apply a thin layer of tattoo jelly and cover it up with a bandage to protect from bacteria, sunlight and rubbing against clothes. While the bandage is still on, you will get tempted to remove it many times because of uneasiness. But, remember, it must stay for at least five hours. However, the time duration depends on the size and location of the tattoo.
First, wash in the tattooed area
After keeping the bandage for over five hours, you can remove the bandage and wash it. Your hands must be germ-free, so wash your hands first and gently wash tattoo with hypoallergenic soap and warm water using your fingers. Then pat the area with a clean towel and leave it to air-dry for about an hour. Now, you can apply a thin layer of moisturizer and leave the skin to breathe.
First Week
In the first few days, scabs will appear, and ink will still come up through the skin and needs to be washed away. Just remember not to pick the scabs or scratch the skin. If you get any mild swelling or redness, then don’t worry, it will go away by the end of the first week. You should avoid getting tattoo week for 3-6 weeks except when you are washing it.
Second Week
As you enter the second week, the scabs will start to flake, and your skin will get itchy. You can use moisturizer to soothe the skin, but do not scratch.
Third week and after that
It will take a while for your skin to be the way it was before. By the end of the third week, the outer layer will get completely healed, whereas for inner layers, it will take some time but less care. You should apply moisturizers and keep away from sunlight to avoid any infections.
Things to do
-Use a moisturizer that allows the skin to breathe. -Remember to use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soap and moisturizer. -Better to wash the tattoo gently with hands -Make sure to apply moisturizer only when the skin is dry. -Don’t expose the skin to sunlight too often until it is completely healed. -Keep yourself hydrated to keep the skin moist and supple.
Things not to do
-Avoid soaps and moisturizers with fragrances or harsh chemicals. -Do not scratch or pick at scabs. -Avoid swimming and bathing until the time the tattoo is completely healed. -Do not use sunscreen until it is completely healed.