There’s nothing quite like getting a new tattoo. The designs you’ve been staring at for months have finally become a reality, and you can’t wait to admire and show off your latest ink. But how do you make sure your latest tattoo heals and looks as it should as quickly as possible?
Well, most importantly, your tattoo artist knows best. Follow their advice, listen to what your skin is telling you and always ask if you’re unsure.
To help with the basics, scroll to check out our five top tips for tattoo aftercare.
Keep it clean
Most tattoo artists will advise you to leave the covering on the tattoo for the first 24 – 48 hours. Once the covering has been carefully removed, you can gently wash your tattoo with a mild liquid soap. We love the UpCircle Beauty Cinnamon and Ginger Chai Soap Bar because it’s hypoallergenic, non-drying and ideal for sensitive skin.
Moisturise
After washing your tattoo, it’s usually advisable to apply a thin layer of unscented moisturiser. Embryolisse Lait Crème Fluid is often used to soothe sun burn or nourish the skin after shaving, rehydrating the skin to leave it soft and smooth.
Stay hydrated
Drink up. It’s also important to keep your skin moisturised and hydrated from the inside out, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Jeffree Star’s reusable metal straws are a fun and planet-friendly way to keep your fluid levels high.
Wear SPF
The skin around your new tattoo is likely to be sensitive, so try to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as much as possible. Even after your tattoo has healed the sun can fade it, so make sure it’s covered in a high SPF sunscreen lotion like Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+.
Be patient
Healing times can vary from person to person, so don’t be tempted to touch, scratch or peel your skin whilst it repairs. Keep yourself distracted with a binge-worthy Netflix series and Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin™ Facial Barrier Mask.