What to ointment a tattoo with? A guide to tattoo aftercare
As tattoo enthusiasts, we must be aware that tattoos are not only an adornment or a form of expression but also an intervention into the body. Getting a tattoo, whether with a machine or using the handpoke technique, disrupts the skin's structure, which requires proper care after the procedure. This is intended, on one hand, to avoid complications (e.g., bacterial infections), and on the other, to ensure the long-term durability and aesthetic appearance of the tattoo. In Ars Tattoo's offer, you will find a wide selection of professional products for post-tattoo skin care that complement each other perfectly, providing comprehensive support for the healing process. What should you use to moisturize your tattoo? Check out our guide.
Aftercare after getting a tattoo
There is no single universal product that would work for every stage of tattoo healing. Skin and design care must be divided into stages, and the first of these is the one immediately following the end of the session. At that time, the tattoo artist cleans the skin with a special disinfectant liquid, which, in addition to its antiseptic action, also reduces swelling. An example of such a product is our recommended Tattoo Eazer Foam.
In the next step, the tattoo artist applies a pore-closing liquid, such as Tattoo Eazer Finish or Tattoo Eazer Silver Healing. Such a liquid minimizes plasma exudate and reduces bleeding.
Then, the tattoo must be protected from direct external factors and the risk of bacterial infection, for which you can use both tattoo protective film and our recommended solution, which is a second-skin type dressing, for example Tattoo Eazer Protective Film.
First 24 hours after getting a tattoo
Upon returning home, the responsibility for further tattoo care falls to its owner. If the design has been secured with foil, it should be changed every 3-4 hours, washing the tattoo with lukewarm water and, for example, Tattoo Eazer Foam.
However, if the tattoo artist used a second skin protective dressing, its first change should occur after 24 hours or earlier (if necessary). Remove the dressing under running water, gently peeling it off from the edges or in one swift motion from the bottom.
How to care for a tattoo 24 hours after the procedure?
Here we have two options:
- You can replace the dressing and leave it on for a few days to effectively protect the skin from dirt.
- You can leave the tattoo uncovered and care for it using a special tattoo cream.
Many people opt for the second solution, and if you plan to do the same, remember not to use random products like cosmetic petroleum jelly or Nivea cream. It is better to use creams dedicated to tattoo care, which not only accelerate skin regeneration but also moisturize it wonderfully, alleviating the discomfort associated with the healing process.
Our recommended products include:
- Tattoo Eazer Cream - natural ingredients, moisturizes well, can be used from the first day.
- Easy Tattoo - provides quick absorption and long-lasting hydration.
Moisturize the tattoo 3-4 times a day, applying a thin layer of cream and gently patting it into the skin.
You can read more about how to care for a fresh tattoo in a separate guide article prepared by Ars Tattoo experts.
How long should you moisturize a tattoo?
The minimum period is 4-5 days – during this time, you should use a dressing or at least moisturize the skin frequently to accelerate its healing. We encourage you, however, to continue such care for several weeks after getting the design, which will not only minimize the risk of infection but also contribute to color retention and maintaining the tattoo's aesthetics.
Ars Tattoo Expert Advice:
The average tattoo healing time ranges from 4 weeks (small designs) to even 3 months. Full skin regeneration, however, can take up to six months.
You already know what to moisturize your tattoo with, but we emphasize that creams and dressings are only some of the products useful during the skin healing stage. Therefore, it would be a good idea to assemble a tattoo care kit, which a separate guide on our website can help you with.
Everything you need to comprehensively care for your tattoo can be found in the permanent offer of Ars Tattoo studio.