Proper Showering Techniques for New Tattoos

After getting inked, it's essential to care for your new tattoo properly to maintain skin health and preserve its appearance. Since fresh ink constitutes an open wound, meticulous care is necessary for optimal healing. Once you've removed the artist's bandage and cleaned your tattoo as instructed, it's time for your first post-tattoo shower. Be sure to heed the artist's advice regarding cleaning frequency and technique, typically three times daily for at least two weeks. When showering, avoid exposing your tattoo to hot water and high water pressure to minimize irritation.

Follow your tattoo artist's guidance on bandage removal timing. Tattoo healing varies depending on factors like skin sensitivity and tattoo size. Your tattoo artist will advise you on how long to keep the bandage in place. If not specified, don't hesitate to ask. Typically, after completing your tattoo, the artist will cleanse it, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a bandage to protect against bacteria.

Allow 2-3 hours before removing the bandage if no specific timeframe is provided. If you forget to inquire or cannot reach your tattoo artist, waiting 2-3 hours is advisable. For larger tattoos, extending the wait time to 6 hours is acceptable, allowing your tattoo to recover from the initial shock before showering.

Remove the bandage applied by your tattoo artist prior to showering. Before handling the bandage, thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds. Then, carefully peel off the bandage covering your tattoo.

If the bandage sticks to your tattoo, remove it in the shower. In some cases, the bandage may adhere to the tattoo, causing discomfort during removal. To ease removal, run warm water indirectly over the bandage while showering to loosen the adhesive before proceeding to clean your tattoo.

Delay showering for up to 24 hours. Consult your tattoo artist regarding the optimal waiting period. Generally, showering within the first 24 hours post-tattoo is acceptable, although waiting for 2 days allows your skin more time to develop a protective barrier over the tattoo.

Opt for lukewarm water. Hot water can cause discomfort and may lead to color loss in your tattoo by opening your pores. It's advisable to steer clear of hot water, especially in the immediate aftermath of getting inked.

Adjust the spray to a gentle setting or shield your tattoo from direct contact. Avoid using a high-pressure spray on your tattoo as it can cause irritation. If your showerhead only has a strong spray, ensure the water flows indirectly over the tattoo. Alternatively, you can gently pour water over your tattoo using a clean cup or your hand.

EXPERT TIP

Burak Moreno
Tattoo Artist

Apply a mild, unscented soap to your tattoo using your hands. Whether it's bar soap or liquid hand soap, any gentle soap will suffice. Antibacterial soap is also an option. Gently lather the soap in your hands and apply it to your tattoo.

Simply massage it in gently with your fingers. Until your tattoo heals, avoid using loofahs and sponges as they may harbor bacteria.

Your tattoo might have dried blood and debris, which need to be cleaned off. However, avoid scrubbing, as it can cause irritation.

Rinse your tattoo gently with water. After applying soap to your tattoo, rinse it off with water. Use your fingers if necessary to gently rinse off the soap under running water.

Try to minimize your time in the shower. Exposure to steam, water, and soap can be uncomfortable and irritating for your tattoo, so keep your shower brief. Additionally, keep your tattoo away from direct water flow when washing the rest of your body for at least a week.

Pat your tattoo dry with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing the tattoo, as it may cause irritation. Instead, gently dab at the tattoo until it's dry. Some slight bleeding is normal.

If you don't have a freshly laundered towel or if your regular bath towel sheds fibers on your skin, you can use paper towels. However, avoid using dirty towels, as they can introduce bacteria.

Clean your tattoo three times daily during the initial week to maintain cleanliness. Proper hygiene is crucial for preventing infections while your tattoo heals. Use a mild, unscented soap and gently massage it in with your fingers. Rinse off with water and pat dry with a clean towel.

Apply a moisturizing ointment to your dry tattoo. Opt for a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic ointment to avoid irritating your tattoo. Gently massage it into the skin with clean hands.

Begin with an ointment, and consider switching to a lotion after a week.

Allow your tattoo to breathe by removing the bandage. Once you've applied moisturizer, there's no need to re-bandage your tattoo. Keep the bandage on for only the first day; afterward, let your tattoo be exposed to fresh air.

Avoid soaking in the tub while your tattoo heals. Bathing in a tub can introduce bacteria to your tattoo, increasing the risk of infection. Stick to showers, which are less likely to harbor bacteria.

Avoid swimming in pools and lakes. Bodies of water contain bacteria that can compromise your healing tattoo. Wait until your tattoo has completely healed, which can take anywhere from 45 days to 6 months, depending on its size and depth.

Avoid the gym as well to prevent sweat and bacteria buildup on your skin.