So, you’ve just gotten a fresh tattoo, and you're excited to show it off. But before you unveil your new piece of art, it's crucial to avoid common aftercare mistakes that could damage your tattoo or affect its healing. Here are the top 7 mistakes to steer clear of when caring for your tattoo.
1. Skipping the Wash
One of the most common mistakes people make is neglecting to clean their tattoo properly. Your tattoo is essentially an open wound, which means it’s vulnerable to bacteria and infection. Wash your tattoo gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap like Suds Foaming Soap 2–3 times a day for the first week. Make sure to pat the area dry with a clean paper towel—don’t rub, as this could irritate the skin.
2. Using Too Much Ointment
It’s easy to think that applying a thick layer of ointment will speed up the healing process, but too much can actually suffocate your tattoo and delay healing. You only need a thin layer of tattoo skincare products, like our Tattoo Glyde Healing Balm or Tattoo Glyde Stick . Over-application can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to irritation or even infection.
3. Exposing It to Sunlight
Sun exposure is one of the quickest ways to ruin a new tattoo. UV rays break down the pigments in your tattoo, causing fading and irritation, especially when the skin is still healing. Avoid direct sunlight for at least 2–4 weeks, and once your tattoo has healed, always apply sunscreen when your ink is exposed to the sun.
4. Picking or Scratching
As your tattoo heals, you’ll notice some scabbing and peeling, which is completely normal. However, picking at the scabs or scratching the area can lead to scarring and may pull out the ink, resulting in patchy spots. If the itching becomes unbearable, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer like Revive Moisturizing Lotion to soothe the area.
5. Soaking in Water
You might be tempted to soak in the tub or take a dip in the pool after your tattoo session, but submerging your tattoo in water can delay healing and cause infections. Waterlogged skin can cause the ink to blur and ruin the appearance of your tattoo. Stick to short showers and avoid swimming, hot tubs, and long baths for the first 2–3 weeks.
6. Wearing Tight Clothing
Wearing tight or rough clothing over your tattoo can cause friction, leading to irritation or even pulling off scabs prematurely. This can affect how well your tattoo heals and its final appearance. Stick to loose, breathable clothing during the healing period to avoid unnecessary pressure or irritation on your fresh ink.
7. Neglecting Long-Term Care
Tattoo care doesn’t stop once your ink is healed. To keep your tattoo vibrant for years to come, you’ll need to maintain it regularly. Moisturize your skin daily to prevent dryness and cracking, and always apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo from fading in the sun. Products like Tattoo Glyde Healing Balm are perfect for keeping your ink looking fresh and nourished long after the initial healing process.
Conclusion
Tattoo aftercare is essential to ensuring your new ink heals properly and maintains its vibrancy. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll help your tattoo look its best, from the moment it’s inked to years down the road. Proper care and attention will allow you to show off your tattoo with pride and keep it looking sharp for a lifetime.
Your tattoo artist gave you a work of art—now it's up to you to protect it!
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The Ultimate Guide to Tattoo Aftercare: Keep Your Ink Vibrant and Healthy