Getting a body tattoo is one of the most exciting body arts that have been practiced since ages. Apart from choosing the right kind of tattoo and the best tattoo artist, another important thing is to know about the post-operative care of the same. You not only have to follow the instructions to maintain the shape and color of the tattoo, but you must also know how to keep it safe. The following important 9 tips should be in your mind to adapt to the new development in your life.
Preparing for the Healing Process
To begin with, you must take some good steps to let your new tattoo to heal. Remember that a tattoo can be compared to a wound and it may take a week or two to heal. Take guidance from the tattoo expert about the products with which you should wash your tattoo after removing the bandage. Ointments and soaps should be used to prevent the microbial infections. Make sure that you use lukewarm water for at least 2 weeks to prevent any kind of damage to the tattoo.
Spending Time in Water
Your tattoo will get wet while bathing and swimming. It depends upon the quality of the ink used for tattooing whether it will get affected in contact with water or not. However, you must restrain from soaking the tattoo in the water for long. As far as swimming is concerned, you must not practice it for the time period of two weeks. Swimming in salt water should be avoided for longer durations as salt may affect the appearance of the tattoo.
Exposure to Sun
Long time exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can also cause damage to your tattoo, especially during the first few days. You may find your tattoo getting faded away if you don’t cover it while taking sunbath. A good idea will be to use a good sun-blocking product on the tattoo to restrict the harm that the sun rays may cause. This is certainly one of the great ways to keep your tattoo attractive for many years.
Blood Donation after Tattooing
Many tattoo-lovers remain unfamiliar with the fact that many states disallow the donors with tattoos to donate blood for 12 months after getting the tattoo done. This is considered as a concerning issue to prevent the occurrence of medical issues like hepatitis. Even if your state doesn’t have such regulations, following this rule is a good way to be on the safe side.
Dealing with the Itch
Your tattoo may itch, especially during the first few weeks. However, scratching the skin is not suggested as it may affect the appearance of the tattoo. At the same time, picking may also deteriorate the tattoo’s quality. A good idea would be to slap the area to relieve itching. You may also think of applying a body lotion over the area to get relief.
Choosing the Right Products
The skin care products that you have been using till date may not be safe once you get a tattoo done on your body. You may need to change your soap, shampoo, creams and lotions if your existing products contain unsuitable ingredients. Care must also be taken to use the products that are free from fragrance. Your tattoo artist should make the best recommendations for each of these products.
Wearing the Right Clothes
The type of clothes you should wear after getting a tattoo is another important thing you need to know. Firstly, you must choose soft clothes that won’t rub the area too much. This will help your skin to prevent itching and scabbing. Going further, the clothes you wear should not cause extensive sweating that may damage the tattoo. Also, your tattoo may leak ink for the initial few days and you must wear clothes that you won’t mind getting spoiled.
Shaving the Tattooed Area
If you get a tattoo applied over the area with hairs, you will be required to take special care while shaving. Make sure that you don’t shave the area with tattoo till it gets properly healed. The cream or foam you use for the purpose of shaving must not contain ingredients that may cause infections. Finally, it is better to use a moisturizer after shaving to keep the skin healthy.
Reviving the Tattoo
Finally, you can take steps to revive the looks and quality of your tattoo, once it starts fading. The best thing to do is to visit the same artist and ask him to touch-up the tattoo. This will definitely produce the desired results.
Living with a tattoo is indeed a trendy idea. By following the tips mentioned above, you can enjoy the attention and excitement of having one of the best tattoos in the town.