Picture this: you've finally decided to take the plunge and get that tattoo you've been dreaming of for years. You've spent hours researching designs, artists, and studios, and you're feeling confident and excited. You sit down in the chair, take a deep breath, and the artist begins their work. The next few hours are a blur of buzzing needles, pain, and adrenaline. Finally, it's done. You look down at your new tattoo, feeling proud and exhilarated. But what comes next? As it turns out, the aftercare of your new tattoo is just as important as the design itself. In fact, it's crucial to ensure that your tattoo heals properly and looks great for years to come.
Don't worry! Relax, i got your back. So get ready to learn everything you need to know about taking care of your new ink.
Properly taking care of a new tattoo is crucial to prevent scabbing, loss of color, detail, scarring, and infection. When it comes to healing a new tattoo, there are two primary methods: Traditional healing method and the use of medical-grade dermal bandage like Saniderm, Dermalize Pro.
In this blog post, I will provide a step-by-step guide to both methods, including how to take care of plasma buildup under Saniderm. I will also compare the pros and cons of each method and provide a conclusion on the best way to take care of your new tattoo.
Traditional Healing Method
Keep the bandage on for one-two hours after getting your tattoo. This will protect the tattoo from bacteria and other contaminants.
After removing the bandage, gently wash the tattoo with normal running tap water and non scented mild soap like Cetaphil. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive, as this can damage the tattoo.
Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel and leave it alone for a day.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion (Cetaphil moisturizer or tattoo ointment/balm) over the tattoo from 2nd day onwards for 2 times a day. This will help keep the tattoo moisturized and prevent it from drying out. (DO NOT USE PETROLEUM JELLY like VASELINE).
You will notice a thin layer of dead skin formed over your tattoo. You may feel itch, sometimes a loooot itchy depending on the size of the tattoo. But here you have to show your endurance by not pricking or scratching.
The scab starts to fall off and you have to be gentle and patient to let it go naturally.
The tattoo looks ugly in this process (1st two weeks). Be patient and trust the process it tales about 90 days for a tattoo to settle down 100%.
You can always reach out to your artist for touch ups after it completely heals.
Here are some of the most important things to avoid after getting a tattoo:
Don't touch your tattoo with dirty hands. This can introduce bacteria and other contaminants that can lead to infection1.
Don't pick at scabs or flakes. This can cause scarring and loss of color and detail in your tattoo2.
Don't submerge your tattoo in water for extended periods of time. This includes swimming, soaking in a bath, or taking long showers. Water can soften scabs and cause them to fall off prematurely, which can damage your tattoo2.
Don't expose your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds. UV rays can fade and damage your tattoo, especially in the first few weeks after getting it3.
Don't wear tight-fitting clothing that rubs against your tattoo. This can cause irritation and intense itching, which can lead to scarring and loss of color and detail3.
Don't use scented soaps or lotions on your tattoo. These can irritate your skin and cause allergic reactions4.
Don't use alcohol, drugs, or tobacco products. These can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection5.
By avoiding these things, you can help ensure that your new tattoo heals properly and looks great for years to come.
Pros of Traditional Healing Method:
It's a simple and straightforward process that doesn't require any special products.
It allows you to see the tattoo as it heals, which can be helpful if you notice any issues.
Cons of Traditional Healing Method:
It can be messy and time-consuming.
There is a risk of infection if the tattoo is not kept clean and moisturized.
Dermalize / Saniderm Healing Method
After getting your tattoo, your tattoo artist will apply a Saniderm sheet to the tattoo. This sheet will protect the tattoo from bacteria and other contaminants.
Leave the Saniderm sheet on for 5-7 days, or until it starts to peel off on its own.
Gently remove the Saniderm sheet and wash the tattoo with warm water and mild soap.
Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or ointment to the tattoo. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for the next two weeks.
Pros of Saniderm Healing Method:
It's a clean and convenient process that doesn't require any messy lotions or ointments.
It protects the tattoo from bacteria and other contaminants, which reduces the risk of infection.
It promotes faster healing and helps the tattoo retain its color and detail.
Cons of Saniderm Healing Method:
It can be more expensive than traditional healing methods.
Some people may be allergic to the adhesive on the Saniderm sheet.
Plasma Buildup Under SanidermIt is normal to see a buildup of blood, ink, and plasma under the Saniderm sheet.
Plasma is a clear, watery liquid that is a normal part of the healing process. To take care of this buildup, it is recommended to remove the Saniderm and clean the tattooed area.
It is important to not leave the buildup for more than one day.
ConclusionBoth traditional healing methods and the use of Saniderm sheets can be effective ways to take care of your new tattoo. The traditional method is simple and straightforward, but it can be messy and time-consuming. The Saniderm method is clean and convenient, but it can be more expensive and some people may be allergic to the adhesive. Ultimately, the best method for you will depend on your personal preferences and your tattoo artist's recommendations. Regardless of which method you choose, it's important to keep your tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected from bacteria and other contaminants.
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