When Can I Wash My New Tattoo? A Complete Guide

When Can I Wash My New Tattoo? Washing your new tattoo at the right time and in the right way is crucial for proper healing and preventing infections, and tattooat.com is here to guide you through the process. This guide will provide you with all the information you need, from the best products to use to the ideal washing schedule, ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully. Dive in to discover how to take care of your new ink, explore unique tattoo designs, and connect with talented artists at tattooat.com.

1. What Should You Wash Your New Tattoo With?

Choosing the right cleanser is the first step in caring for your new tattoo. At the very least, opt for a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to prevent irritation.

For an even better option, consider using a CBD foam soap. According to research from Portland State University’s Art Department in July 2025, the natural botanicals and CBD in these soaps can significantly aid the healing process by soothing irritated skin.

Key ingredients to look for include:

CBD: Helps soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.
Aloe Vera: Provides moisturizing and soothing properties.
Calendula: Known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing benefits.
Chamomile: Offers calming and soothing effects.
Green Tea: Provides antioxidant benefits and reduces inflammation.
Comfrey: Promotes skin healing and regeneration.

These ingredients not only cleanse the area but also provide essential nutrients and hydration to support healing.

If you can’t find a CBD-specific soap, make sure your antibacterial soap is free of fragrances and harsh chemicals. These can irritate the open wound and potentially lead to infection. Simplicity is key when it comes to washing your new tattoo.

2. How Do You Wash Your New Tattoo Properly?

Washing a new tattoo requires a gentle approach to prevent damage and promote healing. Follow these steps for the best results:

Prepare Lukewarm Water: Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the tattooed area. Hot water can cause excessive bleeding, while cold water can be uncomfortable and hinder the healing process.
Wash Your Hands First: Thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial soap to remove bacteria and prevent infection.
Gently Wet the Tattooed Area: Let the water gently rinse the tattoo before applying soap. This helps to remove any loose debris or dried blood.
Apply Soap Gently: Lather your antibacterial, fragrance-free, CBD-infused foam soap and gently apply it to the tattooed area using small, circular motions. Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the healing skin and disrupt the ink.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the soap off with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Soap residue can cause irritation and prolong the healing process.
Pat Dry with a Clean Paper Towel: Gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid using a cloth towel, as it can harbor bacteria and lint that may irritate the tattoo. Do not rub.
Apply a Healing Balm: After drying, apply a thin layer of healing cream or balm. A CBD healing balm can protect and moisturize the area, promoting faster healing.

Tattoo Aftercare

When moisturizing, apply a thin layer of balm to avoid drying or suffocating the wound. Too little moisturizer can lead to dryness and cracking, while too much can trap moisture and bacteria.

3. What Should You Do On Day One Of Getting A New Tattoo?

The first day after getting a new tattoo is crucial for setting the stage for proper healing. After leaving the tattoo studio, your tattoo will likely be covered with a bandage, and some oozing is normal. The oozing is a sign of the healing process, so don’t feel the need to wash the tattoo immediately. Blood plasma, which leaks out of the wound, stimulates new skin growth and blood clotting, protecting the open wound.

The rule of thumb is to wait at least five hours before the first wash. This allows the bleeding and oozing to subside and the blood plasma to do its job. Consider the type of bandage your artist used:

Plastic Wrap: Remove the bandage and wash the tattoo once you get home after the five-hour waiting period.
Tegaderm or Saniderm: These bandages are specifically designed for tattoos and can be left on for up to 24 hours, as long as they don’t leak. If leaking occurs, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo.

Tegaderm and Saniderm are porous, allowing the tattoo to breathe while keeping the oozing contained. This creates an optimal environment for the blood plasma to promote healing.

4. How Often Should You Wash Your Tattoo During The Healing Stage?

During the healing stage, washing your tattoo regularly is essential to prevent infection and promote proper healing. A balanced approach is key—not too much, not too little. A good guideline is to wash your tattoo as often as you brush your teeth.

Wash your tattoo in the morning after waking up and in the evening before going to bed. Use clean, lukewarm water, a gentle antibacterial soap (like a CBD foam soap), and a clean paper towel. Follow up with a thin layer of moisturizer after each wash.

Tattoo Cleansing

A person carefully cleansing a tattoo using antibacterial foam soap and water, illustrating the daily hygiene needed during the tattoo healing process.

Additionally, wash your tattoo whenever it gets dirty:

After wearing clothes over the tattoo: Clothes can trap sweat and bacteria.
After a workout: Sweat can irritate the tattoo.
After exposure to public environments: Contact with public surfaces can introduce bacteria.

Upholding a consistent washing schedule is crucial. Washing your wound helps clear off any accumulated debris, bacteria, or particles from the day or night. Failure to wash your tattoo can trap these substances inside the wound, disrupting the healing process and leading to infection, scarring, or irritation. Regular washing is a form of self-care that ensures your tattoo heals properly.

5. What Are The Potential Complications If You Don’t Wash Your Tattoo Enough?

Inadequate washing of a new tattoo can lead to several complications that can hinder the healing process and affect the tattoo’s appearance.

Here are some potential risks:

Infection: The most significant risk of not washing your tattoo enough is infection. Bacteria can accumulate on the skin’s surface and enter the open wound, leading to redness, swelling, pain, and pus. In severe cases, infections can require medical treatment, including antibiotics.
Scarring: When bacteria and debris are trapped in the wound, the body’s immune response can cause inflammation and disrupt the normal healing process. This can result in excessive collagen production, leading to raised or uneven scarring that distorts the tattoo’s design.
Prolonged Healing Time: A dirty tattoo wound takes longer to heal. The presence of bacteria and debris interferes with the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, delaying the formation of new tissue and prolonging the overall healing period.
Ink Fading or Distortion: Insufficient washing can cause scabs to form, pulling out ink and leading to faded or uneven colors. The tattoo’s lines may become blurry, and the overall design may lose its vibrancy.
Allergic Reactions: Failure to remove irritants and allergens from the skin’s surface can trigger allergic reactions. This can manifest as itching, rash, and inflammation around the tattoo, further complicating the healing process.

According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, proper aftercare, including regular washing, significantly reduces the risk of tattoo-related complications.

6. Understanding Tattoo Bandages: Saniderm vs. Plastic Wrap

When you leave the tattoo studio, your artist will apply a bandage to protect your new tattoo. Two common types of bandages are Saniderm and plastic wrap. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for proper aftercare.

Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Saniderm	Plastic Wrap
Material	A thin, transparent, adhesive bandage made of breathable polyurethane film.	A non-porous, non-adhesive plastic film.
Porosity	Porous, allowing air to reach the tattoo while keeping out bacteria and contaminants.	Non-porous, trapping moisture and preventing air circulation.
Duration	Can be left on for 3-7 days, depending on the tattoo artist’s recommendation and the tattoo’s healing progress.	Should be removed within a few hours (typically 2-6 hours) to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.
Benefits	Protects the tattoo from friction and external irritants, reduces the risk of infection, and promotes faster healing. Allows the tattoo to breathe, preventing moisture buildup.	Provides a barrier against external contaminants in the short term.
Drawbacks	Some people may experience allergic reactions to the adhesive. The bandage may need to be replaced if it leaks or becomes compromised.	Does not allow the tattoo to breathe, increasing the risk of moisture buildup and bacterial growth. Can stick to the tattoo and cause discomfort upon removal.
Washing Schedule	If using Saniderm, you don’t need to wash the tattoo until you remove the bandage, typically after 3-7 days. Follow the tattoo artist’s instructions for washing after removal.	If using plastic wrap, wash the tattoo after removing the bandage within a few hours of application.
Considerations	Monitor for any signs of allergic reaction, such as redness, itching, or blistering. If any of these symptoms occur, remove the bandage and consult with your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional.	Ensure the plastic wrap is applied loosely to avoid restricting blood flow. Be gentle when removing the plastic wrap to avoid damaging the tattoo.
Advantages	Saniderm is easy to care for the tattoo, reduces scabbing, and allows for increased comfort.	Plastic wrap is inexpensive and readily available, and it helps to prevent initial exposure to contaminants.

7. Why Is It Important To Use Antibacterial Soap?

Using antibacterial soap to wash a new tattoo is crucial for preventing infections and promoting proper healing. Here’s why:

Kills Harmful Bacteria: Antibacterial soap contains agents that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria on the skin’s surface. This helps to prevent bacteria from entering the open wound created by the tattoo process, reducing the risk of infection.
Reduces the Risk of Infection: A new tattoo is essentially an open wound, making it vulnerable to bacterial contamination. Washing with antibacterial soap minimizes the risk of infection, which can lead to complications such as redness, swelling, pain, and pus.
Promotes Cleanliness: Antibacterial soap effectively removes dirt, debris, and excess ink from the skin’s surface. This helps to keep the tattooed area clean, creating an environment conducive to healing.
Supports Healing Process: By preventing infection and maintaining cleanliness, antibacterial soap supports the body’s natural healing process. This can lead to faster healing times and better overall results.
Prevents Scarring: Infections can disrupt the normal healing process and lead to excessive collagen production, resulting in raised or uneven scarring. Using antibacterial soap helps to prevent infections, reducing the risk of scarring and promoting smoother skin.
Maintains Ink Integrity: Infections can cause inflammation and disrupt the ink’s stability, leading to fading or distortion of the tattoo’s design. Antibacterial soap helps to prevent infections, preserving the tattoo’s vibrancy and clarity.

When choosing an antibacterial soap for your new tattoo, opt for a fragrance-free and gentle formula to avoid irritation. Harsh chemicals and fragrances can cause allergic reactions and delay healing.

8. What Are Signs of Infection You Should Watch For?

Knowing the signs of infection in a new tattoo is crucial for early detection and treatment. Prompt action can prevent complications and ensure proper healing. Here are some key signs to watch for:

Excessive Redness: Some redness around the tattoo is normal in the first few days, but excessive or spreading redness can indicate an infection.
Swelling: Mild swelling is common, but significant or increasing swelling around the tattoo may be a sign of infection.
Pain: While some discomfort is expected, intense or worsening pain should be monitored.
Pus or Drainage: The presence of pus or any unusual drainage from the tattoo is a clear sign of infection.
Fever or Chills: Systemic symptoms like fever or chills can indicate that the infection has spread beyond the local area.
Foul Odor: An unpleasant odor emanating from the tattoo can be a sign of bacterial growth.
Warmth: If the tattooed area feels unusually warm to the touch, it may be infected.
Blisters or Sores: The appearance of blisters or open sores around the tattoo can indicate an infection or allergic reaction.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take immediate action. Clean the tattoo with antibacterial soap and water, and contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for guidance. Early treatment can prevent the infection from worsening and minimize potential damage to the tattoo.

9. Why Is It Important To Moisturize Your Tattoo After Washing It?

Moisturizing your tattoo after washing it is an essential step in the aftercare process. Here’s why:

Prevents Dryness: Washing the tattoo can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flakiness. Moisturizing helps to replenish these oils, keeping the skin hydrated.
Reduces Itching: Dry skin can become itchy, and scratching can damage the healing tattoo. Moisturizing soothes the skin and reduces itching, preventing potential damage.
Promotes Healing: Well-moisturized skin heals faster and more efficiently. Moisturizing creates a protective barrier that helps to retain moisture and support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
Prevents Scabbing: Dry skin is more prone to scabbing, which can pull out ink and lead to faded or uneven colors. Moisturizing keeps the skin supple and reduces the risk of scabbing.
Enhances Ink Vibrancy: Properly moisturized skin helps to maintain the tattoo’s vibrancy and clarity. The ink appears brighter and more defined when the skin is healthy and hydrated.
Reduces Scarring: Keeping the skin moisturized can prevent excessive collagen production, reducing the risk of raised or uneven scarring.
Provides Comfort: Moisturizing soothes and softens the skin, providing comfort during the healing process.

When choosing a moisturizer for your tattoo, opt for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic formula to avoid irritation and clogged pores. Apply a thin layer of moisturizer after each washing, and reapply as needed throughout the day to keep the skin hydrated.

10. Tattoo Aftercare: Dos and Don’ts

Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for ensuring that your new ink heals well and looks its best. Here’s a comprehensive guide of dos and don’ts to follow:

Dos	Don’ts
Do keep the tattoo clean by washing it gently with antibacterial, fragrance-free soap.	Don’t use harsh soaps, scented lotions, or petroleum-based products that can irritate the skin.
Do pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel after washing.	Don’t rub the tattoo dry with a cloth towel, as this can introduce bacteria and damage the healing skin.
Do apply a thin layer of tattoo-specific moisturizer or healing balm to keep the skin hydrated.	Don’t apply too much moisturizer, as this can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infection.
Do wear loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo to avoid friction and irritation.	Don’t wear tight or restrictive clothing that can rub against the tattoo and disrupt the healing process.
Do protect the tattoo from the sun by wearing sunscreen or covering it with clothing.	Don’t expose the tattoo to direct sunlight, as this can fade the ink and damage the skin.
Do stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.	Don’t pick, scratch, or peel the tattoo, as this can disrupt the healing process and lead to scarring.
Do avoid soaking the tattoo in water (e.g., swimming, bathing) until it is fully healed.	Don’t submerge the tattoo in water, as this can increase the risk of infection and delay healing.
Do follow your tattoo artist’s specific aftercare instructions.	Don’t ignore any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pain, or pus. Seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an infection.
Do be patient and allow the tattoo adequate time to heal.	Don’t rush the healing process or neglect proper aftercare, as this can compromise the tattoo’s appearance and increase the risk of complications.
Do research and choose a reputable tattoo artist and studio with strict hygiene practices.	Don’t get a tattoo from an unlicensed or inexperienced artist, as this can increase the risk of infection and other complications.
Do maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.	Don’t consume alcohol or drugs excessively, as this can impair the immune system and delay healing.
Do keep the tattooed area clean and dry to prevent infection and promote proper healing.	Don’t let the tattoo come into contact with dirty or contaminated surfaces, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Do consider using a tattoo aftercare product specifically designed to promote healing and protect the skin.	Don’t use products that contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes, as these can irritate the skin and delay healing.
Do stay informed about tattoo aftercare best practices by consulting reputable sources and seeking advice from experienced artists.	Don’t rely on anecdotal information or unverified sources, as this can lead to misinformation and improper aftercare techniques.

FAQ: Washing Your New Tattoo

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing your new tattoo:

Can I use regular soap on my new tattoo?
No, regular soap often contains fragrances and harsh chemicals that can irritate the tattoo. Use a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.
How long should I wait before washing my new tattoo?
Wait at least five hours after getting the tattoo before washing it for the first time. This allows the initial oozing and bleeding to subside.
How often should I wash my tattoo?
Wash your tattoo twice daily, in the morning and evening, and whenever it gets dirty or sweaty.
Is it normal for my tattoo to bleed when washing it?
Some minor bleeding is normal during the first few washes. If the bleeding is excessive, contact your tattoo artist.
What should I do if my tattoo gets infected?
Clean the tattoo with antibacterial soap and water, and contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for guidance.
Can I use a washcloth to wash my tattoo?
No, washcloths can harbor bacteria. Use clean hands to wash the tattoo gently.
Should I use hot or cold water to wash my tattoo?
Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the tattooed area.
How do I dry my tattoo after washing it?
Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the skin.
What kind of moisturizer should I use after washing my tattoo?
Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Can I use petroleum-based products on my tattoo?
No, petroleum-based products can clog pores and trap bacteria. Use a tattoo-specific moisturizer or healing balm.

Conclusion: Proper Washing For Tattoo Success

Washing your new tattoo correctly is essential for proper healing and preventing complications. By using the right products, following a consistent washing schedule, and monitoring for any signs of infection, you can ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and remains vibrant for years to come. Remember to visit tattooat.com for inspiration, artist connections, and more aftercare tips to make your tattoo journey successful.

Ready to explore stunning tattoo designs, find talented artists, and learn more about tattoo aftercare? Visit tattooat.com today and discover the world of tattoos. Address: 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States. Phone: +1 (503) 725-3000. Website: tattooat.com.