How to Heal & Cover a Tattoo
After getting a new tattoo it is important to correctly heal and cover it so that it is not prone to any infection. Using mild liquids and no abrasive cloths will ensure the tattoo heals more rapidly. It should be covered using specific ointments and sunblock after the initial healing period.
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Things You'll Need
- Liquid antibacterial soap
- Paper towels
- Ointment (Tattoo Goo)
- Lotion
- Sunblock (SPF 50+)
Instructions
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Leave the bandage placed over your tattoo by the tattoo artist on for at least two hours to prevent bacteria attacking the tattoo while it is at it's most vulnerable. Remove the bandage after two hours and let the air get to it.
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Clean your tattoo. Use warm water and a mild liquid antibacterial soap. Rinse away any ointment or blood and completely clean the area over and surrounding the tattoo. Use your hand to gently rub the water over the tattoo. Do not use a cloth as it may be too abrasive and could damage the tattoo.
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Gently pat the tattoo and surrounding area dry with a clean paper towel. Cover the tattoo by placing a light application of ointment over it such as Tattoo Goo. Use a small amount to make the tattoo shiny. Dab away any excess ointment gently using a clean paper towel.
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Apply a warm washrag or towel for five minutes twice a day to soften any scabs that form. If the skin itches, tap it with your hand, do not pick at the skin. Use mild scentless lotion if the scabbing continues after several weeks. Examine the tattoo. When the shininess fades, the tattoo has healed.
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Wait until the tattoo has healed completely before going out in any sunlight. Cover the tattoo with a layer of sunblock. Use sunblock with SPF 50 or higher especially if in direct sun. Do not re-bandage the tattoo.
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Tips & Warnings
Eat healthy food and drink a lot of water to assist your body in healing the tattoo.
Do not scrub at the tattoo using an abrasive cloth over the first two week healing period. Do not expose the tattoo to sunlight, long baths, hot tubs, saunas or the ocean for at least two weeks. Do not scratch the tattoo.
