Getting a new tattoo can be very exciting Read more at Suite101: How to Care for a New Tattoo: Proper Tattoo Care Tips

Getting a new tattoo can be very exciting. In fact, it can be so exciting that many people often forget that it is important to care for a new tattoo until it has healed. Properly caring for a tattoo can help reduce the risk of infection, and may help speed up healing time.

Caring for a New Tattoo

It is important to listen to all instructions which are provided by a tattoo artist for proper tattoo care. Every tattoo location is different, so the tattoo artist may be able to provide additional tips to someone who has just gotten a new tattoo. Anyone who has recently gotten a new tattoo should be aware of the following factors.

• Ensure that the tattoo is kept bandaged for up to 24 hours.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment to the new tattoo during the first few days. After a few days, switch to a moisturizing lotion. Gently massage a small amount onto the area of tattooed skin.
• Never use rubbing alcohol or peroxide on a tattoo while it is healing.
• Avoid direct contact with water until the tattoo has healed. It is especially important to avoid pools, hot tubs, and other bodies of water. While it is safe to wash a tattoo, stay positioned in the shower so that the area of skin is not being hit by a continuous stream of water.
• Gently wash the new tattoo with an antibacterial soap. Pat it dry with a towel.
• Never rub a tattoo during the healing process.
• Do not scratch or pick at any scabs which form on the tattoo during the healing process.
• Wear loose fitting clothes so that they do not rub against a new tattoo.
• Avoid wearing socks and closed shoes with new foot tattoos. They will cause rubbing of the skin, and may also cause the ink of the tattoo to fade. This is why it is ideal to get foot tattoos during the months of spring and summer, when flip flops can be worn.

Proper Tattoo Care in the Future

Keep in mind that caring for a tattoo does not stop once it has healed. While it will no longer be susceptible to infection like a new tattoo, the overall appearance of the tattoo can be altered without proper care. For example, it is important to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 at all times. Begin using sunscreen on a new tattoo, but continue to do keep it protected from the sun in the future. The sun’s rays are known to cause tattoo fading, so this is necessary for those who want to keep their ink colors looking vibrant. It is ideal to use a moisturizing lotion both new tattoos and older ones in order to keep the skin hydrated.

When caring for a new tattoo, it is important to visit the doctor when there are signs of an infection. Keep in mind that most people will experience some swelling and redness when they get a tattoo. Severe swelling and redness that does not subside after a few days should be taken seriously, however. Pus is another one of the main signs of a tattoo infection.