Getting a tattoo? Here’s what you need to know

Think before you ink

• In this article:

• How to ensure a new tattoo heals correctly

• How to cover, clean and moisturise a tattoo

• How to know  when a tattoo is completely healed

Thinking of diving into the world of tattoos? Here’s everything you need to know about preparing your skin, what to expect during the appointment, and how to ensure your new ink heels properly.

They say getting tattoos fast becomes an addictive hobby. But settling in for your first one can be a daunting prospect. After all, once that ink hits your skin, there’s no going back.

Tattoos are forever – so do your research. When choosing a tattoo artist or parlour, one of the most important things to look for (aside from their artistic style and talent) is their diligence and proactiveness in providing aftercare instructions and advice.

Whether you are planning on inking your body with a permanent reminder of a loved one, a symbol of your goals or simply want to express your creativity, here’s what you need to know to make the most out of your tattoo appointment.

How to ensure your tattoo heals correctly

If there’s one thing a seasoned tattoo artist will tell you, it’s not to skimp on the aftercare. 

Given the expensive and permanent nature of tattoos, ensuring your skin is cared for before, during and after any ink appointment is essential in order to preserve the intended appearance of your tattoo. 

Proper aftercare is also essential in order to avoid scarring and possible infection. While most reputable tattoo parlours and artists are extremely stringent when it comes to practising good hygiene, a risk of infection always follows any activity where needles are involved.

In short, there are a few aftercare tips most artists will agree are non-negotiable after an inking session. Before touching the area of skin or dressing materials, always wash your hands thoroughly.

It’s essential you wash the area at least twice daily with a fragrance-free soap, and moisturise several times a day. Avoiding sun exposure is also an important step, as any skin around the area will be particularly sensitive. 

There are a few aftercare tips most artists will agree are non-negotiable after an inking session. Image: Pexels

How long does a tattoo need to be covered?

In the days following your tattoo appointment, your tattoo artist should advise you when to remove your initial dressing. 

Depending on the size and location of your new ink, your artist may use a variety of dressings and covers, such as medical-grade adhesive, plastic wrap, gauze or a transparent waterproof dressing like Fixomull. 

Generally, plastic wrap and gauze are designed to be disposed of within a few hours, while more medical-grade dressings and ‘second skins’ are designed to last several days. 

How long does a tattoo need to be covered?Image: Pexels

How do you know when a tattoo is healed?

In the initial days following a tattoo, your ink may have a duller or cloudier appearance or begin to scab. This is usually a sign of healing on the skin. 

Depending on your tattoo, excess ink may begin to surface as well as blood and plasma. Continue following your artist’s instructions on cleansing the area, allowing the skin to completely dry before applying moisturising or more dressings.

If the tattooed skin appears to be scabbed or is raised in any way. It’s imperative you do not pick at or scratch the area. Doing so could compromise the final appearance of your tattoo, or cause infection or scarring. 

Itchiness is also a common symptom around the area as a new tattoo begins to heal. Try to refrain from scratching, and apply a fragrance-free moisturise to the area to relieve any itching. 

If a new tattoo is still red, swollen and painful after 7-14 days of healing, the skin may be infected, and you should promptly consult with your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for advice. 

If a new tattoo is still red, swollen and painful after 7-14 days of healing, the skin may be infected. Image: Pexels

Long-term tattoo aftercare tips

Avoid sun exposure: UV damage to your skin not only increases your risk of skin cancer but can also decrease the quality of your epidermis – and the expensive artwork on it. Always protect yourself from exposure with sun-protective clothing and frequent sunscreen application. 

Stay on top of your hydration: The more hydrated your skin is, the better its elasticity and appearance will be, in turn improving the appearance of your ink.  

Avoid rapid weight fluctuations: Gaining or losing a significant amount of weight will naturally have an impact on your skin, and could distort or stretch out the appearance of a tattoo. 

Originally published as Getting a tattoo? Here’s what you need to know