If they don’t tell you, ask them. When the artist finishes your tattoo, they will wash it off and treat it with an antiseptic. They will then apply a bandage to your tattoo, which will help keep bacteria away from it.
Be sure to remove the bandage within the first day, as bacteria can breed in the moist environment underneath it. [3] X Research source
Don’t try to shower with the bandage in place. The water will soak into the bandage, and the bandage will hold it against your tattoo, which can introduce bacteria to it.
Waiting 2 days gives your skin more time to form a barrier over the tattoo. [5] X Research source
Try running cold water on the tattoo for 30 seconds at the end of your shower to tighten your pores.
You can also use a clean cup or your hand to pour a gentle stream of water over your tattoo.
Just rub it in gently with your fingers. Avoid using loofahs and sponges until the tattoo heals, as they can carry bacteria. Your tattoo will likely have dried blood and other debris on it, which you need to remove. However, you should not scrub it, as that can irritate it.
Hop out of the shower quickly. When in the shower, your tattoo comes in contact with steam, water, and soap. That can be painful and irritating for your tattoo, so avoid staying in the shower too long. Also, try to keep your tattoo out from under running water when washing the rest of your body for at least a week. [9] X Research source
You can use paper towels if you don’t have a newly cleaned towel on hand or if your usual bath towel leaves fibers on your skin. Dirty towels can introduce bacteria.
Pat it dry with a clean towel.
Start with an ointment. You can try a lotion after a week or so.
Healing can take 45 days to 6 months, depending on the size and depth of your tattoo. [16] X Trustworthy Source Go Ask Alice Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University Go to source You should also avoid going to the gym so that sweat and bacteria don’t build up on your skin.
