How to Care for Your New Tattoo

When looking to get a new tattoo, shop around and find a good reputable tattooist to do the job. Many of the tattoo studios have a large variety of tattoos to choose from and most are willing to take on custom work as well. Even though the design of your new tattoo is very important, it is not as important as taking care of the tattoo.

A good tattooist always uses antiseptic when cleaning their tools. Any tattooist worth his salt knows that this is very important. Once the tattoo artist has finished his work, takes antiseptic and carefully and skillfully cleans the newly printed tattoo. A piece of cellophane is placed over the tattoo to help protect it.

After the tattoo has been applied to the skin, the tattooist should give you instructions on taking care of your new tattoo. Many tattooists even give a printed sheet of instructions. If you had a tattoo done recently and the tattooist didn't give you any instructions then you maybe wondering what to. Here are some basic steps.

The first thing to remember is never jump right into the shower when first getting home with your new tattoo. The first few days after receiving your tattoo you want to keep your tattoo dry and clean at the same time. Make sure that your hands are clean before you touch the tattoo or clean it. Keeping your hands clean reduces the risks of contacting an infection.

The second step is to buy some ointment to apply to the area of the tattoo. A&D ointment is one of the best ointments to use. You can find the ointment at most pharmacy drugstores. This ointment will help keep your tattoo clean and shiny. After the first application dries you should wipe it clean and apply a second coat. Be careful not to damage the healing process by rubbing to hard on the tattooed area. For the first few days avoid applying soap to the area.

Applying the ointment last for five to six days. At this stage of caring for your tattoo you want use an unscented lotion on the area of the tattoo. Avoid lotions with scents as they might irritate the skin underneath the tattoo. You may stop using the lotion after a couple of days.

The last part of the healing process is a scab forming over the tattoo. During the scabbing process be careful when trying to pick the scab as this can damage the design of the tattoo. The best thing to do with a scab is to let it be and allow the healing process to run its course. If itching persists then you can add some of the ointment to soothe the irritation.

Following these steps will care for your new tattoo. These steps are easy to follow and bring out a great tattoo that you will love.