First of all, congratulations on your new tattoo!
It is important for us to take the healing process very seriously as aftercare is the most crucial step in healing a tattoo and moisturizing regularly with the appropriate product is essential towards your smooth recovery.
Be advised that the following is not to be taken as a piece of medical advice and do seek medical attention immediately if you experience any adverse effects from your tattoo session.
What is the best way to care for a new tattoo?
Day 1 to Day 3: Use of Tegaderm or Saniderm Film Dressing This product is used to cover and protect wounds from harmful bacteria and germs that may cause infections. It helps to maintain a moist environment for your tattoo healing or to facilitate autolytic debridement (uses your body’s enzymes and natural fluids to soften bad tissue that swells up and separates from the wound; accelerates healing).
Keep the Tegaderm film on for 3-4 days (If there is excessive bleeding, remove the Tegaderm film and gently clean the tattoo with antibacterial, non-fragrant soap and apply a new Tegaderm film if you have one. If you don't, keep the wound and surrounding area dry and clean.)
If a cling wrap has been used, keep it on till you're home and gently wash the area with antimicrobial and non-fragrant soap and water, and keep it dry after
Day 4 Onwards: Moisturize a Healing Tattoo
Remove the Tegaderm film and gently wash the tattoo with antimicrobial and non-fragrant soap and water and be sure to pat dry
Moisturize your fresh tattoo regularly (2 to 3 times daily) to minimize the chance of it cracking and bleeding as well as reduce skin irritation, itching, and scabbing.
Never scratch, prick or peel your tattoo
Avoid swimming and the sun for about 2 weeks
Week 4 Onwards: Fully Healed Tattoo (Some may require longer healing duration)
How do I keep my tattoo from fading?
Protect it with sunscreen (10% Promo Code: DKOPPI) or keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight
Keep your skin moisturized
Stay healthy
What are the stages of tattoo healing?
Day 1 to Day 3: Inflamation Phase
The tattoo remains bright and fresh to the naked eye
Swollen, red, tender, and sensitive to touch
Oozing of blood and/ or ink (Be careful when sleeping you're sleeping)
Visible clear liquid (plasma) helps with your healing so don't be too concerned about it
Day 4 to Day 14: Healing Phase
Tattoo turns dull as the top layer of the skin hardens
The tattoo starts to scab and it will itch
Tattoo bubbling happens when the scabs become too wet (Higher risk of infection)
Day 15 to Day 30: Recovery Phase
Itching should end during this phase
Dead skin cells will naturally exfoliate itself
Day 60 Onwards: Healed
Your tattoo should look and feel fully healed during this phase and you're strongly encouraged to be consistent with your aftercare regime
In closing...
The healing journey is straightforward so long we stay discipline and carry out the recommended aftercare practices as advised by our tattoo artist or dermatologist to minimize tattoo fading, and we will all be looking forward to our next tattoo session real soon! It is always a good day for a new tattoo anyway.
Refer to this article if you're interested to find out more about the various tattoo styles available before scheduling your next tattoo appointment.
