Inside: Tattoo Aftercare + Ideas.
Are you thinking of getting a tattoo? Is the thought of the aftercare process stressing you out? You may have heard horror stories about people getting infections after getting a tattoo. The likelihood of this happening is high if you don’t follow the recommended aftercare procedure.
Read ahead to learn some aftercare tips. By having these in mind you will feel a lot more confident and prepared for your first ever tattoo.
Tattoo Aftercare Tips – The Guide You Need
Follow the aftercare tips below to prevent an infection after getting a tattoo. These will also help your tattoo heal quicker and make it easier to endure the pain.
1. Aftercare Lotion Is A Must Have
Once you’re done with getting your tattoo, your tattoo artist will apply an aftercare cream and cover your tattoo. You can ask them where you can purchase the aftercare cream, balm, or lotion from. You can place an order for an aftercare kit here. Place an order for this ahead of your tattoo appointment.
Apply this after you go home and have removed the wrap over your tattoo as well.
2. Antibacterial Wash
When taking a shower, avoid using a scented and chemical-based soap. Wash your tattoo with an antibacterial wash and pat dry with a tissue. Avoid rubbing your tattoo with a towel. Apply a thin layer of aftercare lotion afterward.
Note: Ask your tattoo artist which aftercare wash to use.
3. Load Up On Nutrient Rich Food
Citrusy fruits and green vegetables that are rich in nutrients and vitamins are what you want to load up on before your tattoo procedure as well as after. Consume cauliflower, broccoli, and sweet potato along with oranges and berries.
Garlic and onions are two powerful ingredients to add to your meals as well. They have anti-inflammatory properties and help the body heal faster.
4. Avoid Touching Your Tattoo
To avoid an infection from forming, avoid touching your tattoo. If your hands are not clean, the chances of germs and bacteria entering your skin through your unhealed tattoo increases.
5. Wear Loose Clothing
Try to wear light and airy clothing after getting a tattoo. Wearing tight clothes can restrict the cell turnover process and blood flow through your tissues, hence delaying the healing timeline.
6. Avoid Consuming Processed Foods And Too Much Sugar
Sugar can slow down the healing process. So try to avoid foods and beverages that contain high amounts of sugar for the first week. The same goes for processed foods.
7. Cover Your Tattoo While Sleeping
When sleeping, cover your tattoo to avoid friction. Do this for the first 3 nights after applying an aftercare lotion. You can even wrap your tattoo with a sterile bandage while wearing tight clothing.
8. Stay Out Of the Sun
For the first week or so, avoid going out in the sun too much. If you do happen to go in the sun, be sure to cover up your tattoo with a sterile bandage. This aftercare tip is the most commonly forgotten one – you want to make sure you’re always wary of this! The same goes for swimming and engaging in strenuous activities such as going to the gym.
Things To Carry With You For Your Tattoo Appointment
Here are some additional items to have on you for your tattoo appointment:
- Carry an extra pair of clothing.
- Wear loose clothing – you don’t want to cause a lot of friction on your body after getting a fresh tattoo
- Carry your water bottle – stay hydrated while getting inked as well as after you’re done with the appointment
- Munch on something sweet to regulate your sugar levels and make it easier to tolerate the pain
- Your smartphone and some headphones – listening to music can distract the mind from the pain while you’re getting a tattoo
You can now stop contemplating getting a tattoo and take the dive. Pick a tattoo artist that is renowned and has the proper certification. This might be a bit heavy on the pocket, but it’s sure to be worth it. An experienced tattoo artist will also guide you on the proper aftercare procedure. And, if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to discuss them with your tattoo artist before getting inked!
Learn More
If you found this article helpful in calming your nerves and getting you prepared for what follows after your tattoo procedure, then be sure to check out our FIRST 48 hours tattoo guide is your ultimate guide to the world of tattoos. We have a wide range of resources and articles on different types of tattoos. You may find inspiration for your first ever tattoo from the other ideas posted on our website.