General Aftercare Guidelines:
Washing:
Wash the tattoo gently 2-3 times daily with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Use only your hands, and avoid washcloths, sponges, or exfoliants.
Drying:
Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing.
Moisturizing:
Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer (like Aquaphor or Lubriderm) 2-3 times daily to keep the skin hydrated.
Protection:
Sun Protection: Avoid direct sunlight for at least 2-3 weeks, and use sunscreen with a high SPF after the tattoo has healed.
Loose Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent irritation and friction.
Avoid Soaking: Don't swim, bathe, or expose the tattoo to long periods of water.
Things to Avoid:
Picking or Scratching: Resist the urge to pick at scabs or scratch the area, as this can lead to infection and scarring.
Tight Clothing: Avoid tight clothing that can rub against the tattoo.
Scented Products: Avoid scented soaps, lotions, and other products that could irritate the skin.
Heavy Exercise: Avoid intense workouts that cause sweating, especially in the first few days.
Re-bandaging:
Unless instructed otherwise by your tattoo artist, avoid re-bandaging the tattoo, as it can trap moisture and increase the risk of infection.
Duration of Aftercare:
First few days: Focus on keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized to promote healing and prevent infection.
First 2-3 weeks: Continue washing and moisturizing regularly, and avoid sun exposure.
After 3 weeks: You can typically switch to a fragrance-free lotion instead of ointment, and can gradually start incorporating sunscreen.
Long-term: Keep the tattoo moisturized to maintain its vibrancy and prevent fading.