The Importance of Aftercare
A tattoo is more than just a piece of art on your body. It’s also a medical procedure that involves puncturing your skin with a needle
When you puncture, cut or open the skin, the body reacts and you leave yourself vulnerable to scarring and infections.
Taking the proper steps to care for your new tattoo can prevent those complications to ensure your skin heals properly and allows the works of art underneath to turn out beautifully.
The tattoo process doesn't end when you leave the shop. What you do in the days after the artist finishes his work is equally as important.
Tattoo care
Immediately after getting inked, the artist should apply antibacterial ointment and cover the skin with a wrap.
After a few hours, gently wash your tattoo with warm water and fragrance free soap. You can keep the cover off to let your skin breath.
In the first week wash it once or twice a day to get rid of any ooze and keep the skin clean. After the first 2-3 days apply a tattoo moisturizer balm to keep is from drying out.
Over the course of a month your tattoo will start as a reddish wound. Then as it heals it may become itchy, and you will see some light scabbing and flaking. This is part of the natural healing process. it is important NOT to pick at these scabs. Leave them alone and let them come off naturally. Otherwise, you could pull out the ink and leave scars. It is important to keep the skin hydrated .Put on some tattoo moisturizing balm daily to keep it from drying out and to relieve the itching. When it is fully healed, your tattoo will come out bright and beautiful as the artist intended!
Choose a correct moisturizer
Over the counter moisturizers vs tattoo specific moisturizers
Not all moisturizers are the same. Some common products such as vaseline aquaphor and neosoprin can contain chemicals and ingredients that are harmful for your tattoo. Over the counter moisturizers that contain harsh chemicals and petroleums are not advised.
Moisturizer balms specifically for tattoos
Proper tattoo balms not only keeps the skin from drying out but it also has all natural ingredients that help with inflammation and healing. A good Tattoo Balm also contains a natural wax such as beeswax which acts as a barrier between the healing skin and the outside environment, thus protecting it from bacteria and pollutants while still allowing the skin to breath.
New tattoos and old tattoos
Balms aren't just for brand new tattoos
A good tattoo balm is truly a triple threat formula to ENHANCE, RESTORE, and PROTECT.
For new tattoos, a good balm will keep your skin in the best condition to heal properly and showcase your work of art. For older tattoos balms are used to enhance and revitalize their faded appearance back into a fresh healthy state.
We recommend using a balm throughout your tattoo's life to keep your tattoo healthy, protected and beautiful.
Enjoy your Ink!