Taking good care of a tattoo after it is done is essential, to avoid any kind of infections or problems. If suitable aftercare is not provided, even the most beautiful tattoo can get spoiled. The tattoo should be kept covered up- this prevents air-borne bacteria from invading the wound. The bandage should be left on for a minimum of 2 hours. However, if the tattoo artist has covered your tattoo with some kind of plastic wrap, it should be removed immediately.
After you remove the bandage, youll need to wash your tattoo. Use lukewarm water and milk, liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap, to gently wash away any ointment, blood and/or plasma, and to completely clean the area. Do not use a washcloth, a sponge, a loofah, or anything else abrasive. Use your hand for cleaning, it the tattoo feels slimy and slippery, it has probably been oozing plasma- try to gently remove as much of this as possible, as plasma creates scabs when it dries.
Then pat the area firmly with a clean towel, or a paper towel, to get it completely dry. Follow with a light application of ointment- preferably one that is Vitamin A and D enriched. Do not use Neosporin- this is not for tattoos, and can create allergic reactions.
After that, continue to keep it clean, but you can use lotion when needed instead of ointment, to keep the skin soft. The lotion should be dye and fragrance free.
Can you shower with your new tattoo? Yes, you can- just dont soak it. Submerging your tattoo in a hot tub, or a bathtub, can cause serious damage- so avoid those for 2-3 weeks. If you get soap or shampoo on your tattoo, remove it quickly with water. Swimming should be avoided. Peeling and scabbing is normal- dont panic. Apply warm moist compresses to the scabs for about 5 minutes, 2-3 times a day to soften them, and they will eventually peel off on their own. Do not apply lotion or ointment to a softened scab ” wait for it to try. Dont pick it, and dont scratch, even when it itches.
Protection of your tattoo from the suns ultraviolet rays is essential- as these can fade and damage a brilliant tattoo very fast. If it is necessary for you to spend some time in excessive heat, protect your tattoo with sunblock of SPF30 or above. This will keep your tattoo vibrant, and ensure you feel proud of it!
Right, I have also read interesting articles about the best season when to get a tattoo. It should be done during the cold seasons or in spring time, it depends on where you live. That's because it is much easier to protect your tattoo from suns ultraviolet rays, as above mentioned. And that's also perfect because, as your tattoo is completely healed, you will be ready to show it off during summer time!
It would be awful to get a tattoo that you just love only to find it has faded a year later.