top of page
Search
Aug 63 min read

Tattoo Aftercare

Updated: 3 days ago

Ensuring Your New Ink Heals Perfectly



Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, and taking proper care of it is crucial to ensure it heals beautifully. The first few days and weeks are the most critical in the healing process. Follow our detailed aftercare instructions below to keep your new tattoo looking its best.



Initial Aftercare Steps

1. Keep the Bandage On

After your tattoo is finished, your artist will apply a bandage. Leave this bandage on for 2 to 10 hours. It's there to protect your fresh tattoo from airborne bacteria and contaminants. Remember, tattoos will ooze; this is normal and part of the healing process.

2. Wash Your Hands

Before removing the bandage, ensure your hands are washed thoroughly to prevent any bacteria from getting into the wound.

3. Gently Cleanse the Tattoo

Once you remove the bandage, clean the tattoo area with soap and water. Use your hands and avoid scrubbing with a brush or towel. The goal is to remove any dead cells on the surface gently. Do not perform this step until the tattoo has healed if advised by your artist.

4. Pat Dry

Use a clean, sterile towel to gently pat the tattooed area dry.

5. Allow the Tattoo to Air Dry

Let your tattoo air dry completely for about 10 minutes.

6. Moisturize

Apply a light layer of moisturizing hand lotion, such as Curel, to the tattooed area.

7. Avoid Re-bandaging

There's no need to re-bandage your tattoo at any time during the healing process.

8. Repeat Cleaning and Moisturizing

For the next 3 to 4 days, repeat steps 3 to 6 approximately six times a day. The key here is to keep the tattoo from drying out.


What to Expect

As your tattoo heals, you might notice some peeling and possibly light scabbing. This is normal. Avoid picking or scratching at any scabs to prevent damaging your tattoo. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or streaks going from the tattoo site toward your heart, consult a physician immediately as these could be signs of infection.

Do's and Don'ts for the Next 2 to 6 Weeks

Don't:

  1. Swim in Pools, Lakes, or Hot Tubs: Avoid all recreational water activities to prevent infection.

  2. Use Hydrogen Peroxide or Rubbing Alcohol: These can damage your tattoo.

  3. Itch, Pick, or Scratch: This can cause scarring or loss of ink.

  4. Engage in Sweaty Activities: Sweat can irritate your healing tattoo.

  5. Garden: Soil contains bacteria that can cause infections.

  6. Have Contact with Animals: Pets can carry bacteria that may infect your tattoo.

Do:

  1. Stay Out of the Sun: Protect your tattoo from the sun until it has completely healed.

  2. Apply Sunblock: Once healed, use sunblock to protect your tattoo from UV rays.

  3. Avoid Recreational Water Activities: Refrain from swimming until your tattoo is fully healed.


Final Tips

The key to a well-healed tattoo is patience and proper care. Each person's healing process can vary, so always follow the advice of your tattoo artist or consult with a doctor if you have concerns. Proper aftercare ensures your tattoo looks vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

Thanks for choosing Mabee Ink LLC! If you have any questions about your aftercare process, feel free to contact us. Enjoy your new ink!



What's the most important part of your tattoo aftercare routine?

  • Keeping it clean and dry.

  • Applying the right ointments.

  • Avoiding sun exposure.

  • Following the artist’s instructions to the letter.




19 views0 comments

Comments

bottom of page