What Heals a Tattoo Fast?

All tattoos once applied go through an initial healing process.

Tattoos are a form of skin art that involves perforating the skin with ink by way of small incisions. Tattoos have been practiced since ancient times by different civilizations and for different reasons and in today's popular culture, they are very trendy. Although there's no miracle ingredient or method to heal a fresh tattoo, there are some steps and guidelines that can help you with the healing process and ensure that you get the most out of your new skin art.

Things to Avoid

There are certain things that need to be avoided completely while your tattoo heals because they are simply harmful and can retard the healing process. During this time you will want to avoid soaking your tattoo in water or any other liquid: avoid taking baths in the tub, swimming and going to a sauna. Do not shave or do anything else which is abrasive to the skin. Also be mindful of the sun, do not go tanning or overexpose yourself to it. Remember to always apply sun block to your tattoo area after it heals to keep the ink from fading in the future. Finally, do not pick or scratch at any scabs that have formed around your tattoo to avoid irritation and promote even shedding.

Keep it Covered and Clean

A newly made tattoo is basically an open wound which is a breeding ground for bacteria. In order to avoid infections, it is important to keep it covered for the prescribed amount of time with the bandage provided. Besides serving the purpose of soaking up any blood or oozing plasma, it helps shield it from dirt and bacteria. The ideal bandage should be breathable so that your wound can breathe and heal itself. Also make sure to keep your wound clean even when the bandage is no longer needed by washing your tattoo with mild, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.

Apply the Right Product to Your Tattoo

There are many lotions and ointments out on the market today for new tattoos that range from specialty products, over the counter and all natural products. What's important to look for when choosing one, is that it be non-allergenic, fragrance and dye-free. The purpose of applying ointment and/or lotion to the healing tattoo area is to keep it moisturized so as to avoid itching and excessive scabbing. Be aware of, and discontinue their use, if you have any reactions when using a product with antibiotics.

Apply Given Directions

Doing your research and choosing a good tattoo artist that you trust is an important step that you should take beforehand, after your tattoo has been applied it's also important to follow the tattoo artists' instructions. Since there are many variations and differences of opinion in how to best heal and take care of your tattoo, make sure to follow the guidelines prescribed by the artist. They are familiar with the ink and other tools they may use and therefore should generally know best.

References

• The Tattoo Museum: History
• Headlight Tattoo: Aftercare
• Sharp Tattoos: Aftercare
• Tribal Celtic Tattoo: Care