Tattoo Aftercare is freakin important: protect your investment
Why Tattoo Aftercare is Important
Just got a fresh tattoo? Congratulations! But your journey with your new tattoo doesn't end when you step out of the tattoo shop. Just like any other skin procedure, tattoos require care and attention during the healing process. This phase, known as tattoo aftercare, is absolutely crucial. Let's delve into why it's so important.
The Importance of Tattoo Aftercare
Caring for a new tattoo is all about ensuring the quality and longevity of the artwork on your skin. Without proper aftercare, your tattoo could fade, distort ruining the beautiful design you carefully chose.
Additionally, your skin is essentially a large, open wound after getting a tattoo. It's vulnerable to infections and other complications if it isn't cleaned and cared for correctly.
Prevents Infection: Proper tattoo aftercare helps to protect the area from harmful bacteria and pathogens that could cause infections.
Promotes Healing: It promotes quicker healing by keeping the area clean and hydrated. This, in turn, reduces the risk of scarring and skin damage.
Preserves Artwork: Lastly, it ensures that the vibrancy and detail of your tattoo are preserved, keeping your ink looking fresh and beautiful for years to come.
In essence, tattoo aftercare is your best defense against complications and your surest bet for a wonderful, long-lasting tattoo. It's an integral part of the tattoo journey and one you shouldn't take lightly. Tattoos are expensive in many ways, so protect your investment!
How to Avoid Infection
Taking care of your tattoo is crucial not only for its appearance but, more importantly, to avoid infections. Freshly inked skin can be prone to bacteria and infection if not properly protected. Here is a helpful guide to keep you on track.
1. Always Keep It Clean
First and foremost, you must keep your new tattoo clean. It may sound simple, but it's an essential step that some people tend to overlook. Use an antibacterial soap free of any harsh chemicals and gently clean the area a few times each day. Avoid soaking the tattoo in water, such as in a bath, pool, or hot tub, as this can open the door to bacteria and other harmful organisms.
2. Moisturize Regularly
After cleaning, ensure you keep the skin moisturized. Dry skin can crack or peel, creating openings for bacteria to enter. Use a recommended tattoo aftercare lotion or ointment — usually, unscented products are the best. Avoid using greasy substances, as they can clog pores and impede the healing process.
3. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
Too much sun can damage the skin and lead to an infection. While your tattoo is healing, it's best to avoid direct sun exposure. If you do need to be outside, keep the tattoo covered or use a strong sunscreen specially designed for tattoos.
4. Leave The Bandage Alone
Your artist will likely wrap your tattoo in a bandage after the session. Advisably, keep this on for 1-2 hours, depending on their recommendation. Resist the urge to peek or show your friends - exposing the tattoo too soon can lead to infection.
5. Listen To Your Body
Lastly, always listen to your body. If you notice any signs of infection, such as intense redness, swelling, or a foul smell, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional immediately. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Remember, a tattoo is a lifelong commitment. It’s worth taking the time and effort to ensure it heals correctly. By following these steps, you can help prevent infection and ensure your tattoo remains a vibrant and healthy piece of art.
Dealing with Itching and Peeling
After getting a new tattoo, you might experience some itching and peeling as part of the natural healing journey. It can be a bit uncomfortable, but don't panic, it's perfectly normal. Below are some valuable tips to help you manage these common post-tattoo symptoms.
Managing Itching
When your skin is healing, it's common to feel an itch. This is because your body is shedding dead skin cells and generating new ones. However, scratching your new tattoo can lead to infection and damage the artwork, so it's crucial to resist the urge.
Keep it moisturized: Applying a thin layer of a recommended moisturizer can help to alleviate the itching. Moisturizers not only soothe the skin but also keep it hydrated, further preventing dryness and itching.
Use a cold compress: A clean and cold compress can relieve itching. It’s essential to ensure the compress is clean to avoid introducing bacteria to the area.
Wear loose clothing: Tight clothes can irritate your tattoo, leading to more itching. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton.
Handling Peeling
Peeling is another standard part of the tattoo healing process. It can start a few days after getting your tattoo and may be accompanied by some ink-colored flakes. However, you should not pick at or peel off the skin.
Let it peel naturally: Your tattooed skin will peel off naturally, just like a sunburn. Picking at it can cause premature peeling, leading to patchy ink or even scarring.
Moisturize, but don’t overdo it: While moisturizers can help with peeling, too much can suffocate your skin and delay the healing process. Always apply a thin layer, and allow it to fully absorb before applying more.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water will not only benefit your overall health but also support your skin's healing process. Well-hydrated skin peels less and heals faster.
Remember, every person’s body responds differently to a new tattoo, and these symptoms might differ in intensity from one person to another. However, if the itching or peeling becomes severe, or if you notice signs of infection such as increasing redness, swelling or pus, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately.
The Best Products for Tattoo Aftercare
Now that you're armed with the essential tips for tattoo aftercare, let's delve into the world of aftercare products. Being mindful of what you apply on your fresh tattoo is a critical part of the healing process. Here are our best products that can help protect your tattoo and promote faster healing.
Brutal Bones Tattoo Balm
This is one of the most recommended products for new tattoos. Brutal Bones Tattoo Balm is a multi-purpose ointment that helps to soothe, protect, and heal the skin. It's fragrance-free and made with a formula that allows oxygen to flow and helps heal the skin.
Brutal Bones Tattoo Oil
Brutal Bones Tattoo Oil is a pro tattoo artist-recommended oil perfect for keeping your tattoo moisturized once your tattoo is healed. It's made from natural oils that moisturize while making your tattoo colors pop right off your arm. It has a slight scent with phthalate-free fragrances making it a suitable choice for sensitive skin.
Remember, everyone's skin reacts differently to products, so it's crucial to patch test any new product before applying it to your tattoo. Also, always follow your tattoo artist's recommendations—they know best when it comes to healing your specific tattoo.