Tattoo Aftercare Tips: How to Care for Your New Tattoo

If you plan to get a new tattoo in Toronto, gathering all the information you need for a perfect tattoo experience is essential. One crucial aspect of the tattoo process is proper aftercare.

Tattoo aftercare is vital because you’ll be walking around with an open wound after getting a tattoo. You want your new tattoo to heal nicely while retaining its artistry and design.

With that in mind, our tattoo artists at Piranha Tattoo have compiled a list of recommendations for tattoo aftercare. These essential tattoo aftercare tips will ensure your new ink heals beautifully and maintains quality over time.

Recognize and Understand Tattoo Healing Stages:

Understanding the different stages of tattoo healing will help you identify what is normal and what may require attention. The healing process typically involves different stages, such as scabbing, peeling, and itching.

And it’s crucial to allow your tattoo to go through these stages naturally without interfering. Here’s our description of tattoo healing stages and what to do during each one.

Oozing and Redness

After getting a tattoo, your tattoo artist will usually bandage it. Once you remove the bandage, you may notice fluid coming from your tattoo, and the surrounding skin may appear red.

This is normal and can last for about a week. You can prevent tattoo infections during this healing stage by keeping the area clean.

Itching and Flaking

Your tattoo may start to itch and flake in the first and second weeks of the healing process. Resisting the urge to scratch your tattoo during this healing stage is important.

You see, scratching your tattoo can lead to complications. Instead, you want to pat the itchy area gently.

Peeling and Dryness

Around the second or third week, the top layers of the tattooed skin may start to peel. This is part of the natural healing process as the skin regenerates.

It’s important not to pick at the peeling skin, as it can cause scarring or affect the outcome of your new tattoo design. Instead, you want the skin to peel naturally at its own pace.

Settling and Fading

As the healing process continues, your tattoo may start to appear slightly dull or faded. This is temporary and normal. The tattoo will regain its vibrancy as the deeper layers of the skin heal.

Complete Healing

While the outer layer of the tattooed skin may appear healed within 2 to 3 weeks, complete healing can take several months. It’s essential to continue following proper aftercare practices during this time, including moisturizing the tattooed area and protecting it from the sun.

Similarly, individual healing experiences may vary during the tattoo healing stages. And, the timeline provided above is a general guideline. Always consult your artist for specific tattoo aftercare tips tailored to your design and healing process.

Tattoo Aftercare Tips: What to Do While Caring for a New Tattoo

Tattoo maintenance and after is easier with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect during the tattoo healing stages.

Here are the dos and don’ts to ensure your tattoo heals nicely.

Listen to Your Tattoo Artist

Aftercare instructions may vary slightly depending on the tattoo artist and the specific tattoo. Your tattoo artist is the best source of guidance for caring for your new tattoo. They will provide you with personalized instructions based on their expertise and knowledge of your tattoo.

Keep the Bandage On

After getting your tattoo, your tattoo artist will cover it with a bandage to protect it from external bacteria and contaminants. Leave the bandage on for the recommended time, usually 1 to 4 hours. This step helps prevent infection and allows the tattoo to begin an undisturbed initial healing process.

Clean Your Tattoo

Once the initial bandaging period is over, it’s time to clean your tattoo. Wash your hands thoroughly with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap before touching your tattoo.

Gently clean the tattooed area with mild soap and water, removing traces of blood, plasma, or ointment. Avoid using washcloths, which can harbour bacteria and irritate the tattooed skin.

Pat Dry and Air Dry

After cleaning your tattoo, pat it dry with a clean, soft cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing the tattoo, as this can cause irritation. Let the tattoo air dry for a few minutes to ensure complete drying before proceeding to the next step.

Apply a Thin Layer of Moisturizer

Care for your new tattoo by applying a small amount of a non-scented moisturizer recommended by your tattoo artist.

Avoid using petroleum-based products like Vaseline, as they can damage the tattoo and prolong the healing process.

Gently massage the moisturizer into the skin, ensuring not to suffocate the tattooed area.

Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure

Protect your new tattoo from the sun’s harmful rays by keeping it covered or using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sun exposure can fade the tattoo and cause damage to the healing skin. Remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods

Proper hydration and a balanced diet can contribute to the healing process of your tattoo. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, and consume nutrient-rich foods that promote skin health, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Avoid Swimming and Intense Physical Activity

During the healing period, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water. Submerging your tattoo in water can introduce bacteria, which increases the risk of infection. Additionally, refrain from intense physical activities that may cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area.

In Short

Proper tattoo aftercare is essential for preventing infections, preserving the tattoo’s vibrant colours, and achieving the desired outcome. And the tips above are everything you need to ensure your new ink heals perfectly.

Our tattoo artists at Piranha Studio are always ready to discuss tattoo-specific aftercare tips. Thinking of getting a new tattoo in a specific place? Call us today to discuss aftercare and plan for it.