The world of tattooing is an intricate realm. What most people don’t realize is that it’s a space where art, health, body strength, technique, etching, shading, and beauty are all on a level playing field. Here at Byrdie HQ, we love Kingpin tattoo supply and a fresh tattoo just as much as the next person, but we know that proper tattoo aftercare is crucial, if you want your new ink to last. Whether it’s your first or your 20th, we’ve rounded up the best short- and long-term tips that’ll help keep your tattoo care game in tip-top shape—from how to clean it to signs it’s time to visit your doctor.
According to Lavriv, tattooing puts a strain on your immune system, and internal preparation is just as important as external aftercare. “A tattoo is an invasive cosmetic procedure, and your immune and lymphatic system will be working hard on healing a fresh tattoo, so partying and anything excessive is not recommended,” she says. In other words: take it easy.
Short-Term Aftercare Tips
Touch It With Clean Hands Only
Most tattoo artists have their own set of aftercare instructions. But one piece of advice they all have in common is to touch your tattoo with clean hands only. “The most important step would be to clean your hands before you clean your tattoos,” says Carter. “[I recommend that] you listen to the verbal directions [from your tattooer] first, then refer to the written directions after.” Also, take into consideration that washing your hands shouldn’t be a quick three-second rinse. With soap, rub your palms together for as long as it takes to recite the alphabet (or for whatever jingle lasts 20 seconds or more).
Remove the Bandage and Wash with Antibacterial Soap Only
The original bandage your tattoo artist employs to wrap you up post-ink session can be removed within two to three hours after completion, or however long your tattoo artist recommends. Do not re-bandage. The plasma from the original tattoo may surface after the first couple of hours,1 and then it’s time to clean the art and allow it to breathe.
To cleanse the tattoo, use antibacterial soap, such as Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap ($17) or any unscented antibacterial liquid. Avoid using any type of cloth to cleanse the tattoo because it will exfoliate the area—which, remember, is a wound. Next, rinse with warm-to-mild temperature water and pat the area dry with a towel. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before proceeding.
Apply Ointment
Carter says to always use an ointment recommended by the artist who gave you the tattoo. “Every artist has their own aftercare ointment—Shea butter, artificial skin, lotions, etc.,” he explains. “Make sure you don’t over-medicate the tattoo by applying too much ointment, as this could clog the pores and create a rash that would definitely disturb the healing process.” Some tattoo blogs even suggest that it’s A-okay to leave the area free of ointment after the first cleansing or only applying a very thin layer.
“I always recommend using Aquaphor ($4) for the first two to three days of healing,” says Lavriv. “It delivers the right amount of moisture without feeling heavy or suffocating, and it also minimizes peeling and flaking.” One thing to note: Aquaphor does contain petroleum, so if you’re looking for vegan alternatives, she recommends Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Maintenance Cream ($20), a tattooing glide made of Shea, mango, and aloe butter, with coconut and vitamin E oils; it’s great for using before, during, and after the healing process. Once your tattoo starts healing, you can switch to unscented lotions, such as Eucerin Original Healing Lotion ($9), or dabble in natural shea body butter to moisturize until your masterpiece is fully healed.
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Allow It to Breathe
During the first three to four days post-tattoo, you’ll repeat the process of washing your tattoo about two to five times a day, then following with a light layer of ointment. Carter explains that a good amount of air is great for the ink during the healing process, so it’s critical to make sure the skin can breathe. On the first night, it’s normal to wrap the area in plastic wrap, so it doesn’t stick to your bedding, but after that, make sure the design is free from coverage and getting ventilation.
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