If you’re looking to get a tattoo for the first time, the chances are you aren’t alone. Tattoos—along with the tattoo industry—are increasing significantly in the United States. But any tattoo veteran will quickly tell you there are a few things to avoid after getting a tattoo. Beauty and Ink have got you covered in this blog with all of the pro tips.
Avoid Doing Nothing
One mistake too many people make after getting a tattoo is doing nothing. Once their bandage is placed over the tattoo and they leave the shop, they think all of the hard work is over. But tattoo aftercare requires a lot of treatment. There are cleaning steps you need to take for the first 3 days after getting a tattoo. And then after that, you still need to constantly moisturize it. So after your tattoo, avoid doing nothing.
Direct Sunlight Exposure
It can be bad for your tattoo and skin if you get too much exposure to direct sunlight with your fresh tattoo. If you can, it’s best to plan for your tattoo at a time when you won’t have to be in the sun a lot. However, if you must be in the sun, try to cover up your fresh tattoo or put a small amount of sunblock that’s specific to tattoos. Be sure to reapply it periodically as long as you are in the sun and uncovered with your tattoo.
Touching and Scratching
Sometimes a new tattoo can be uncomfortable and itchy. You’ll want to touch, pick at scabs, or scratch your tattoo, but it is crucial you don’t. Touching a tattoo while it’s still new can lead to scarring, pulling out ink, discoloration, or even infection. You can pat the tattoo while cleaning and moisturize it to try to make it more comfortable.
Shaving
Hold off on shaving after getting a tattoo for at least two weeks, when the tattoo is likely fully healed. A new tattoo is a wound that needs time to heal, so shaving can severely irritate the wound and skin.
Excess Water Exposure
Excessive water entering the wound hinders the healing process. This can also cause infection if it gets bad. You can get your tattoo wet while you clean it, but you cannot soak the water in any type of water. This means the bathtub, swimming pools, lake, or ocean are all no-gos for soaking your tattoo.
Excess Sweating
Just like how soaking your tattoo in water is bad, so is excess sweating. Of course, some sweating is expected and normal, but sweating too much for the first few weeks after a tattoo isn’t ideal. Avoid going to the gym, running, or doing any strenuous physical exercise with your new ink.
Tight-Fitting Clothes
You want your fresh tattoo to breathe while it’s healing. Tight clothing can move moisture away from your skin and keep it dry, which can decelerate the tattoo healing process. Tight-fitting clothes often lead to chafing and sweating.
Excess Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Drugs
After getting a tattoo, you want your body to stay healthy and hydrated. This improves the healing process by keeping your skin in the best condition. For that reason, practicing moderation with alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs initially after getting a tattoo is beneficial.
About Beauty and Ink Tattoo Shop
Beauty and Ink offers a variety of tattoo services, from traditional tattoos to more modern styles. We know that tattoos are a form of self-expression, and that’s why we give nothing but our best when we work with you. So if you’re looking for the best tattoo shop in town, come to Beauty and Ink.
Book an appointment with us today or get in touch to learn more about how we can help you.
