AFTER CARE:

Aftercare is crucial for ensuring the best healing and longevity of your tattoo. Here are some general tattoo aftercare instructions to follow:

1. Leave the bandage on: Your tattoo artist will cover the freshly tattooed area with a bandage or wrap. Leave it on for the recommended time, usually a few hours, to protect the tattoo from outside bacteria.
2. Cleanse gently: After removing the bandage, gently cleanse the tattooed area with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Use your clean hands or a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the tattoo aggressively.
3. Pat dry and air out: Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean, lint-free towel. Allow the tattoo to air dry for a few minutes before applying any aftercare products.
4. Apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer: Use a tattoo-specific aftercare ointment recommended by your tattoo artist or a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer. Apply a thin layer to keep the tattoo moisturized but not overly saturated. Repeat this step 2-3 times a day for the first few days.
5. Avoid picking or scratching: It's crucial to resist the temptation to pick, scratch, or peel off any scabs or flakes that may form during the healing process. Let them naturally slough off to avoid potential damage or loss of ink.
6. Avoid prolonged water exposure: While showering is allowed, avoid submerging your tattoo in bodies of water such as pools, hot tubs, or the ocean for at least two weeks. Excessive exposure to water can increase the risk of infection and slow down the healing process.
7. Protect from the sun: Keep your healing tattoo out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning beds. UV rays can fade and damage the tattoo. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen after the tattoo has fully healed.
8. Wear loose and breathable clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to prevent irritation and promote airflow around the tattooed area during the healing process.
9. Avoid excessive sweating and physical strain: For the first couple of weeks, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or strain on the tattooed area, such as intense workouts or heavy lifting.
10. Follow your artist's instructions: Every tattoo and individual's healing process may vary slightly. Your tattoo artist may provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your tattoo. Follow their advice closely and reach out to them if you have any concerns or questions.

Remember, proper aftercare plays a vital role in the healing process of your tattoo. If you experience any signs of infection, excessive pain, or prolonged redness and swelling, consult a medical professional or your tattoo artist for guidance.Tips on tattoo care

Tattoos are a lifelong commitment and require some special care to keep them looking good for many years to come.

Here’s what a person can take good care of their tattoo:

• Always use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soap and moisturizer when caring for a tattoo, as harsh chemicals and fragrances can irritate and even damage freshly tattooed skin.
• Use a moisturizer that allows the skin to breathe, as clogged pores can cause an infection.
• Make sure the area is completely dry before applying aftercare moisturizer, as trapping excess moisture under the skin can lead to irritation and heat rash.
• Wash the tattoo regularly but gently, especially after dirty or sweaty activities.
• Drink plenty of water to help keep the skin moist and supple.
• While healing, cover the tattoo with clothing or a bandage whenever it might be exposed to the sun.

Here’s what someone should avoid when it comes to tattoo aftercare:

• Soaps and moisturizers with any fragrances or harsh chemicals. Even if a product does not normally irritate the skin, it may irritate the tattooed area.
• Picking at scabs, as this can cause scar tissue to form.
• Scratching the tattoo even if it becomes itchy.
• Non-cosmetic grade petroleum moisturizers, which will clog the pores.
• Using sunscreen on the tattoo before it has fully healed.
• Swimming before the tattoo has healed.

Tattoo care is simple once the process is understood. However, there are still times when a doctor may be needed.

Infection is the most common reason to see a doctor after a tattoo. If a person does not care for it properly, a tattoo can become infected with bacteria.

An infected tattoo will be warm, inflamed, and painful to the touch. The skin may also ooze pusor have a rash.

Blood-borne infections can occur if the tattoo artist used dirty needles or ink. These infections can include:

• tetanus
• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C
• HIV
• mycobacterial skin infections

A person should contact a doctor if any signs of infection occur.

The most important factor for tattoo care is working with a professional, highly-recommended tattoo artist. This helps avoid any complications and makes the healing process much easier.

Following the tattoo artist’s instructions on self-care is often a person’s best line of defence against infection and poor healing. Regular care for a tattoo can help prevent infection and keep both the skin and tattoo preserved fo