Yay! Congratulations on your new tattoo! Now it's time to take good care of it to ensure it heals perfectly and stays beautiful for a long time.
Follow these steps:
Day 1 : The first hours
* Keep the bandage on: Leave the plastic or bandage on for the time I indicated (usually 2 to 4 hours for plastic). It protects it from dirt.
* First cleaning: Remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with warm water and neutral soap/soap specifically for tattoos. Use your fingers, without rubbing.
* Drying: Using a clean paper towel, gently pat dry. Do not rub!
* Moisturize: Apply a very thin layer of the ointment I recommended (like Bepantol Derma or one specifically for tattoos). It's just to moisturize, don't overdo it.
* Do not cover again: After washing, you don't need to cover it with plastic again, unless I've told you to use a special bandage for a longer period. The tattoo needs to breathe!
After Healing
(about 2 to 4 weeks)
* Keep moisturizing: Use an unscented moisturizer on the tattoo whenever possible to keep it looking beautiful.
* Sunscreen ALWAYS: To ensure your tattoo lasts and doesn't fade, use sunscreen (SPF 30+) whenever it's exposed to the sun, even after it's healed.
* Keep an eye out: If the tattoo becomes very red, swollen, has pus, is very painful, or if you develop a fever, let me know or see a doctor.
Next 2 Weeks (Healing)
* Wash and moisturize daily: Wash (with neutral soap) and moisturize (with the ointment) 2 to 3 times a day.
* Use very little ointment: Always apply a thin layer.
* Itching and scabbing: It's normal to experience itching and peeling. Don't scratch or pick at the scabs! Moisturizing helps with the itching.
* Loose clothing: Wear lightweight clothing that doesn't constrict the tattoo.
* No sun: Keep the tattoo completely out of the sun! The sun fades the skin and hinders healing.
* No swimming: Avoid pools, the sea, rivers, or bathtubs. Just a quick shower.
* No exercise: Take it easy at the gym, no training for 10 days to avoid sweating on the tattoo or stretching the skin.
Drink water and eat well: It helps with healing throughout the body.
* Avoid alcohol/drugs: They can hinder healing.
Completion
Following these tips, your tattoo will look amazing! If you have any questions, just ask!