How to Help Your Tattoo Heal

A tattoo is an open wound, and proper care is essential to ensure it heals well and stays vibrant. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

The First 24 Hours

1. Keep the Bandage On: Follow your artist’s advice. Typically, leave the bandage on for 2-3 hours to protect against bacteria and contaminants.
2. Gently Wash: Use lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap to clean the tattoo once you remove the bandage. DO NOT SCRUB, EXFOLIATE, or use a washcloth; instead, use your hands.
3. Pat Dry: Always use disposable paper towels to dry the area. Avoid reusable cloths as they harbor bacteria.
4. Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer, as over-moisturizing can hinder healing.

The First Week (or Two)

• Wash Twice Daily: Morning and evening cleanings are essential. Repeat the same gentle washing process.
• Moisturize: Continue to apply a thin, and I emphasize thin layer, of unscented moisterizer.
• Avoid Soaking: Stick to quick showers and avoid baths, pools, and saunas, as prolonged water exposure can damage the tattoo.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps your skin stay healthy and promotes healing.
• Wear Clean Clothes: Choose loose, breathable fabrics to prevent friction on the tattoo.

Common Healing Phases

• Redness & Swelling: It’s normal for the area to appear red and swollen for a few days. Elevating the tattooed area can help reduce swelling.
• Peeling & Itching: Expect some peeling around day three. Resist the urge to scratch or pick at it to avoid scarring.

Dos and Don’ts

Do:

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Use sunscreen after healing to preserve the tattoo’s vibrancy, but not until after the tattoo has healed for 2-3 weeks.

Don’t:

• Use alcohol-based or petroleum-based products (like Vaseline) on the tattoo.
• Expose it to direct sunlight or tanning beds during healing.
• Take aspirin or ibuprofen 24 hours before or after your session, as they thin the blood and slow healing.

Full Healing

• Surface healing typically takes 2-3 weeks, but deeper layers can take up to 3 months. Continue to protect your tattoo from excessive sun exposure and keep it moisturized even after it’s healed.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth healing process and a tattoo that looks great for years to come.

If you notice unusual signs like extreme redness, pain, or discharge, consult a doctor promptly.