Tattoos and Skin Care

Precautions

One of the best ways of taking care of your tattoos is to ensure that you prepare your skin for the application and choose an experienced and reputable tattoo parlor. Tattooing is an invasive process that involves the placement of pigments under the surface of your skin with the help of a small machine. Therefore, before you commit to tattooing you should always ensure that you choose a reputed tattoo parlor, inquire about their sanitation practices and ensure that their licenses are up-to-date.

Keeping the tattoos covered

Tattoos are quite similar to open wounds that need some time to heal. Make sure that your tattoo stays covered with a breathable bandage in order to protect it from the damaging effects of the environment and to prevent your tattooed skin from getting infected. Keep the tattooed skin covered for at least 4 hours after you leave the tattoo parlor.

Sanitize your skin

Sanitizing your tattooed skin is extremely important as well. The best way to prevent infections is to use an antibacterial soap and warm water. Don’t forget to apply anti-bacterial creams on the tattooed skin as well.

Protect your tattoos from the UV rays of the sun

Sunlight can bleach the color from your tattoo, irrespective of how new or old it is. Always apply a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen over the tattoo and re-apply the sunscreen once in every 2 hours of sun exposure. It also helps to wear light garments over your tattoos during the day to offer it better protection. Remember, irrespective of its age, your tattoo requires sun protection. Even seasoned tattoos can be subjected to sunburns which ultimately cause scarring or peeling.

Pay attention to rashes

Freshly tattooed skin can be extremely sensitive. Exposure to UV rays can make things worse as well. In most cases, people who don’t protect their tattooed skin properly end up developing rashes or sunburn-like reactions. If this happens, you need to ensure that you use the proper products to take care of the skin and cover up the tattoo before heading outdoors during the day. It also helps to stay on the watch for things like redness, swelling or pus. If any one of these issues appears, consult your physician immediately.

Keep the tattooed skin moisturized

Keeping your tattooed skin moisturized helps you to maintain its shine and its color. The best way to do this is to use a gentle hydrating moisturizer that doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals. However, irrespective of which moisturizer you use, don’t forget to apply it sparingly. Using too much of the product can drain the color out of your tattoo.