How to Care for a Tattoo

Tattoos are an artistic symbol of expression, a way of preserving memories or trends permanently on your skin. Taking good care of a new tattoo is just as important as picking one out. If tattoos are not cared for properly they can lose their color, become infected, form scabs and even scar your skin. So be sure to follow these simple steps immediately after your new tattoo is finished.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Antibiotic ointment
• Unscented moisturizing lotion

1. Apply a very thin layer of antibiotic ointment over the tattoo. Usually your tattoo artist will do this for you. The ointment keeps the tattoo from drying out and helps prevent scarring or infection.

2. Cover the tattoo with a bandage, if your tattoo artist doesn't do this. Keep the bandage on for two hours after getting the tattoo. This provides additional protection, and keeps ink and blood from staining your clothes.

3. Remove the bandage after two hours. You will see some blood or fluid oozing from the tattoo site. Gently wipe it clean with a tissue. Reapply antibiotic ointment, and wait 10-15 minutes to see if more fluid appears. Repeat the blotting and reapply ointment until the oozing stops.

4. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment after the oozing has stopped. Do not bandage your tattoo. Wear loose cotton clothing over the tattoo site when you go to bed to prevent your new tattoo from sticking to the sheets while you sleep.

5. Wash the tattooed area with mild soap and a little water to remove any bits of dried blood or ooze that might be residing on the surface. Do this once a day, carefully, and preferably in the morning. Do not re-bandage. You tattoo needs to breathe now.

6. Apply any unscented moisturizing lotion to the tattoo area after washing. Use lotion frequently but sparingly to keep the area moisturized. Do this for two to three weeks for normal healing.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to wash your hands before applying any ointment or lotion to your new tattoo.
• If your tattoo gets wet in the shower (which is hard to avoid!), gently pat it dry with a towel and reapply moisturizer.
• Do not subject your tattoo to direct sunlight for at least two weeks. This can cause the tattoo to fade or look blurry. If you plan to be in the sun, wear something that will cover the tattoo.
• Do not allow your tattoo to soak in any water for two to three weeks. This means no swimming, hot tubs, bathing or continuous direct contact with the shower flow.
• See a healthcare provider and let your tattoo artist know if you develop redness, swelling, excessive discharge from the tattoo site or fever, as these may be signs of infection.

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Resources

• Find more information on tattoo care.