After receiving a new tattoo, your artist will apply an ointment and wrap your tattoo in a medical bandage. This is to keep any dirt and debris out of the tattoo. A new tattoo is an open wound, and can be prone to infection if proper tattoo care is not followed.
Remove the bandage from your new tattoo after at least 4 hours (but no more than 12). You should wait to remove the bandage until you can clean it with mild soap and warm water to remove any dried blood or ink that was left after the tattoo process was finished.
You will find during this time that your tattoo is probably red, and even raised. Not to worry, this is your body's natural healing process, cells are rushing to the tattoo site to aid in reconstructing the damaged tissue, and while uncomfortable, no cause for concern. This swelling may last anywhere from 24-48 hours and may be accompanied by some bruising, depending on the location and size of the tattoo.
Do not soak the tattoo. Rinse it well, and pat it dry, then allow it to air-dry for 5-10 minutes before applying ointment. You should continue to wash your new tattoo at least 4 or 5 times a day for the first week.
Apply Bacitracin or a tattoo healing ointment regularly throughout the day, massaging a very small amount into the skin to keep the tattoo slightly moist, blot off any excess. The healing tattoo should never stay submerged in water. This means that short showers are fine, but any kind of baths or swimming is not recommended. Do not re-bandage your tattoo after taking the original bandage off; the skin will need to breathe. If you notice small itchy liquid filled bumps appearing after using a certain product, immediately discontinue use, wash the tattoo and let it dry out.
Proper tattoo care requires that you do not wear anything that will rub against your new tattoo. You should only apply ointment for as many days as it takes for your tattoo to peel (like a sunburn), which will be anywhere from 3 days to 1 week. When the peeling begins don't pick at it. When the tattoo has fully entered the peeling phase you should NOT apply any more ointment. The area will become dry and itchy, and a good lotion should help with this. Avoid creams and lotions that contain fragrances, artificial colors and other unnecessary ingredients that can irritate a healing tattoo. If scabs develop, they can remove the color beneath them. It is very important that they are allowed to dry out completely. The scab will eventually fall off on its own. Never pick or pull the scab.
Your new tattoo is an open wound so refrain from actions such as swimming, tanning, removing the bandage early. Be sure to follow these proper tatto care guidelines to ensure your tattoo heals properly. Your tattoo will be with you for a lifetime, and it only takes a week or two of proper tattoo care to keep it looking good forever.
If you continue to notice any bumps or increasing redness after the first few days please contact your local tattoo studio for more information.
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