Tattoo Aftercare Guide: How to take care of Your New Tattoo

TATTOO AFTERCARE 101

 Congratulations on getting your new tattoo! Whether it’s your first or tenth, taking proper care of your tattoo during the healing process is crucial for ensuring its longevity and vibrant appearance. In this comprehensive tattoo aftercare guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and tips on how to properly care for your tattoo. At VitaliTree, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful tattoos, which is why we have created this guide to help you navigate your tattoo healing journey.

THE HEALING PROCESS

A TIMELINE AFTER GETTING A NEW TATTOO

The first stage of tattoo healing begins immediately after your session. The artist will apply a protective ointment and cover your tattoo with a bandage or wrap. Let the bandage stay on for a few hours to protect your fresh ink from bacteria and external irritants.

After the initial few hours, you can remove the bandage and gently cleanse the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, natural soap. Gently pat dry with a clean towel, ensuring no fibers stick to the tattooed area.

For the next few days, apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare products like VitaliTree’s Tattoo Salve to keep the skin moisturized and aid in the healing process, and protect the color of your tattoo.

As the healing progresses, it is normal for your tattoo to experience scabbing and peeling. Avoid picking or scratching at the scabs, as this can lead to scarring or loss of color.

 Finally, after a few weeks, your tattoo will enter the final healing stage. It’s important to note that healing times vary from person to person, but most tattoos will be fully healed within 4-6 weeks.

THINGS TO AVOID DURING THE RECOVERY PROCESS

To ensure a successful healing process, it’s essential to avoid certain activities and conditions that can compromise your tattoo’s healing. These include:

• EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT AND UV RAYS
  • Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight and tanning beds during the healing period. UV rays can fade the colors and damage the delicate, healing skin.
• SUBMERGING THE TATTOO IN WATER
  • Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or taking long baths during the healing process, as soaking can soften scabs and increase the risk of infection.
• PICKING, SCRATCHING, OR PEELING THE SCABS
  • Allow the scabs to naturally fall off on their own. Picking or scratching can cause scarring and color loss.
• WEARING TIGHT OR ABRASIVE CLOTHING
  • Opt for loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to avoid friction and irritation on your healing tattoo.
• APPLICATION OF HARSH CHEMICALS OR LOTIONS
  • Avoid using products that contain alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or other harsh chemicals on your tattoo. These can dry out the skin and delay the healing process. At VitaliTree we have several vegan and non-vegan vegan products that can help you.
• ENGAGING IN ACTIVITIES THAT CAUSE EXCESSIVE SWEATING
  • Sweating excessively can lead to increased bacterial growth and potential infection. Take a break from intense workouts or activities that make you sweat profusely.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR NEW TATTOO: DIFFERENT BODY PARTS

Different body parts require slightly different care to ensure optimal healing. Here are some tips for taking care of tattoos in different areas:

• TATTOOS ON THE ARMS AND LEGS
  • Apply a thin layer of aftercare balm and loosely cover your tattoo with a breathable wrap or soft, lint-free clothing. Avoid tight clothing that can rub against the tattoo, agitating it.
• TATTOOS ON THE TORSO
  • Keep the tattoo clean and moisturized. Opt for loose clothing that won’t irritate the area.
• TATTOOS ON THE HANDS AND FINGERS
  • Due to the constant use of hands, tattoos on these areas require extra care. Apply aftercare balm regularly and avoid exposing the tattoo to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
• TATTOOS ON THE NECK AND FACE
  • Keep hair and clothing away from the tattooed area to prevent irritation. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to keep the tattoo clean and hydrated.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A TATTOO TO HEAL?

The complete healing of a tattoo involves several stages, and it’s important to be patient throughout the process. Here’s what to expect:

UNDERSTANDING THE HEALING STAGES: 

After the scabbing and peeling stage, your tattoo will enter the final healing phase. The skin may still appear slightly dry or flaky, but the scabs will most likely have fallen off at this point. If not, don’t pick at them! Let them fall off on their own.  

RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF COMPLETE HEALING

A fully healed tattoo will have a vibrant and even appearance. The colors should be well-settled. When touching your tattoo at this point, the skin should be smooth and silky.

PATIENCE

Let your tattoo heal naturally. Rushing the healing process can lead to complications and affect the long-term outcome of your art. Be patient, you’ve come this far…

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU WAIT TO WORK OUT AFTER GETTING A TATTOO?

While exercise is important for overall health, it’s crucial to give your body enough time to heal after getting a tattoo.

HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: 

It’s recommended to wait at least 2-3 days before engaging in any exercise or physical activity that could irritate or damage the tattooed area. During this time, avoid activities that could cause excessive sweating, friction, or pressure on the tattoo, such as running, weightlifting, or swimming.

Additionally, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist, which may include avoiding direct sunlight, applying ointments, and keeping the area clean and dry.

Waiting to work out after getting a tattoo allows the skin to fully heal and reduces the risk of infection, scarring, and fading of the tattoo over time. It’s better to take a few days off from exercise than to risk damaging or compromising the quality of your new tattoo. 

EXERCISING AND TATTOO HEALING

Vigorous exercise increases blood flow and body temperature, which can affect the healing process. It’s important to avoid workouts that cause excessive sweating during the initial healing stage. Wait at least 1-2 weeks before engaging in intense exercise or weightlifting. This allows your tattoo to heal and reduces the risk of irritation, infection, or damage.

GENTLE EXERCISES DURING THE HEALING PROCESS

Low-impact activities such as walking, light stretching, or yoga can be beneficial during the healing process. Just make sure to keep your tattoo clean and dry during and after exercising. Avoid excessive sweating and tight clothing and be sure to protect your tattoo from potential contaminants. Be sure that your yoga mat is clean and sanitized and avoid public areas that may harbor harmful bacteria. Remember… your tattoo is an open wound and therefore vulnerable.

TATTOO AFTERCARE MYTHS AND FACTS

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding proper tattoo aftercare. Let’s debunk a few common ones:

• MYTHS
  • Soaking your tattoo speeds up the healing process.
  • Dry healing the tattoo is the way to go.
  • Antibiotic ointments are ideal to take care of your new tattoo.
  • Vaseline or other petroleum-based ointments are ideal for aftercare.
• FACTS
  • Soaking your tattoo can soften scabs and prolong the healing process. Stick to gentle cleaning and moisturizing instead.
  • Properly moisturizing your tattoo aids in healing during the first few days. There are many risks associated with dry healing.
  • Antibiotic ointments can trap bacteria and hinder the healing process. Use a specialized tattoo aftercare product like VitaliTree’s Tattoo Salves and Lotions.
  • Petroleum based products can trap moisture and bacteria and potentially lead to scarring or infection. Your tattoo needs to breathe during the healing process, so a natural, tattoo specific product is preferred. Following your artist’s instructions for tattoo aftercare is crucial. Every tattoo artist may have specific tattoo aftercare instructions, so it’s important to listen to their advice for optimal healing.

SIGNS OF PROPERLY HEALING TATTOOS

Knowing how to identify signs of proper healing can give you peace of mind. Look out for these indicators:

Gradual fading of redness and swelling: Redness and swelling should gradually subside over time.

Formation of a thin, flaky layer: The skin may appear slightly dry and flaky as it heals but avoid picking or scratching at it.

Itchiness subsides gradually: Mild itching is normal during the healing process, but if it becomes intense or prolonged, consult your tattoo artist or a dermatologist.

Development of a matte, even appearance: A fully healed tattoo will have a matte finish and vibrant colors, indicating successful healing.

FOLLOW A TATTOO AFTERCARE ROUTINE

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo. By following these guidelines and using high-quality professional tattoo aftercare products like VitaliTree’s 

Foaming Cleanse, you can help your tattoo heal effectively and showcase its true beauty. Remember, patience and consistency are key, and if you have any concerns during the healing process, always consult your tattoo artist or a medical professional for guidance.