Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, and ensuring it heals correctly is crucial to keep it looking vibrant and fresh for years to come. Proper aftercare is just as important as choosing a skilled artist and a great design. One of the most critical aspects of tattoo aftercare is keeping your new ink clean, and that’s where Tattoo Soap comes into play. This guide will walk you through the essential steps of tattoo aftercare, emphasizing the importance of using the right tattoo soap to promote healing and prevent complications.
Initially, your tattoo artist will bandage your fresh tattoo, often using a protective film like Tegaderm. This bandage acts as a second skin, shielding your tattoo from bacteria and keeping it moisturized during the initial healing phase. It’s normal for fluid, a mixture of blood plasma and excess ink, to accumulate under the bandage. This might look alarming, but it’s a natural part of the healing process and not a cause for concern.
You can shower with the bandage on, which is convenient. Just be gentle; avoid vigorous scrubbing or direct water pressure on the bandaged area. Pat it dry carefully after showering, and be mindful when dressing to avoid snagging the bandage. The Tegaderm bandage should ideally stay on for a minimum of 24 hours, and can be left for up to two days for optimal initial protection. Leaving it on longer is generally beneficial.
Sometimes, you might notice a small amount of plasma and ink leaking from the bandage edges. If the bandage remains securely in place, fully covering the tattoo, this leakage is usually not problematic. You can gently clean the area around the bandage edge if needed. However, if the bandage starts to peel away, exposing the tattoo to the air, it’s time to remove it and begin the washing stage.
Removing the bandage is best done in the shower. The warm water helps to loosen the adhesive, making removal more comfortable. Peel it back slowly and carefully, close to your skin, rather than ripping it off quickly.
Once the bandage is removed, the next crucial step is to thoroughly wash your tattoo using a tattoo soap. This first wash is arguably the most important for preventing infection and promoting proper healing. You need to remove all traces of plasma and ink residue that have accumulated on the skin.
For tattoo soap, it’s recommended to use a mild, fragrance-free, and antibacterial soap. Dr. Bronner’s soap (excluding mint or tea tree varieties, which can cause a tingling sensation) is an excellent option. Dial unscented soap is another readily available and effective choice. The key is to use a gentle cleanser that will clean the tattoo without irritating the skin.
Using clean hands and gentle but firm pressure, wash the tattoo for at least three minutes. Avoid using washcloths, loofahs, or anything abrasive, as these can irritate the fresh tattoo. Focus on thoroughly cleaning the tattooed area, especially areas with heavy saturation or color, where plasma tends to accumulate. Don’t be afraid to apply a bit of pressure; it’s essential to remove all the sticky plasma. It’s normal for this first wash to feel a little tender.
Wash the tattoo until you are confident it’s clean, and then wash it again for good measure. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat the area dry with paper towels or a freshly laundered, clean towel. The skin should look clean and matte, not shiny or gooey. Shininess indicates the presence of residual blood plasma, which you want to remove as much as possible. This step, using your tattoo soap, is absolutely vital for proper healing.
After the initial unbandaging and washing, pay close attention to your tattoo for the next day or two. Continue to wash it with tattoo soap a minimum of twice a day. If you notice any shininess or gooeyness, wash it more frequently. Remember, any time you touch your tattoo, ensure your hands are freshly washed.
As your tattoo heals, it will likely begin to feel tight, similar to dry skin. This is the signal to start moisturizing. For some, this happens immediately after removing the bandage; for others, it might be a day or two later. Use a fragrance-free, unscented lotion to moisturize your tattoo. Cúrel brand unscented lotion is a widely recommended option. Apply a thin layer of lotion whenever your tattoo feels itchy or dry.
It is crucial to avoid picking at your tattoo. Scabbing and peeling are normal parts of the healing process, and the peeling skin will often be pigmented, mirroring the tattoo ink colors. Let any scabs or flakes come off naturally. Patience is key! Scratching an itchy tattoo is also a big no-no, as it can damage the healing skin and the tattoo itself. Continue moisturizing until the peeling is complete and the skin is no longer scaly.
During the entire healing period, protect your tattoo from excessive direct sunlight, swimming pools, baths, soaking in water, and tanning. Do not apply sunscreen to a healing tattoo. Once your tattoo is fully healed, sunscreen becomes your best friend to preserve the vibrancy of the colors over time. You can resume swimming and other activities once the tattoo is completely done peeling and the skin is no longer sensitive.
By following these aftercare instructions, particularly by consistently cleaning your new tattoo with a gentle tattoo soap, you’ll significantly contribute to a smooth and successful healing process, ensuring your tattoo looks its best for years to come. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact your tattoo artist directly.
