How to Take Care of Your New Tattoo

Once you've gotten a permanent tattoo, the hardest part is over-- but your work isn't done. Pay careful attention to these instructions for the proper aftercare for your new tattoo and you'll help protect the newly acquired tattoo's color and shape. Take care of your new tattoo the same way you would care for any other skin wound.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Washcloth
• Loose and comfortable clothes
• Antibiotic soap
• Sunscreen
• Plain skin lotion
• Antibiotic ointment

1. Keep the bandage on the tattoo for at least two hours after the work is complete (or longer, depending on the tattoo artist's instructions).
2. Remove the bandage very carefully and throw it away. This allows your skin to breathe and begin the healing process. Do not rebandage the tattoo.
3. Put a drop of mild antibiotic soap on your hand and lightly wash the tattoo. Gently pat it dry with a washcloth (not a paper towel) taking care not to rub it.
4. Dab an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) on the cleaned area. Do not use an ointment that contains zinc as it may cause an adverse reaction.
5. Continue to lightly apply antibiotic ointment to your tattooed skin for the first few days, then switch to a plain skin lotion that is free of dye, perfume, lanolin, Vitamin E, aloe or alcohol.
6. Expose your healing skin to air as much as possible but avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
7. Avoid getting a lot of water on your new tattoo - showers are OK, but no swimming or baths for a few weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Resist scratching the skin or picking at scabs, no matter how much it itches.
• Wear clean, loose and comfortable clothing over the tattooed area. Your skin should heal in about two weeks.
• Apply sunblock to your tattoo after it has healed, to help prevent burns and fading.
• If, after getting your new tattoo, you experience extreme swelling, unbearable itching, excruciating pain, fever, a rash or any other unusual symptoms that may indicate infection, allergic reaction or other serious complication, contact a doctor immediately.