When you make a tattoo, begins a crucial stage for your skin to heal properly and your design look flawless. There are certain practices that you should avoid during the first few weeks subsequent to the completion of your tattoo that ensure appropriate healing and a good result.
If you have a new tattoo or you're thinking about to have one and you want to know what precautions to take, in this article Inktenza, we will teach you what not to do after a tattoo.
1. Avoid scratch or peel the scabs
It is normal during the healing is crusting on the tattooed skin, these protect the tattoo from dirt and bacteria, so it is essential that the rasques or peeled. Scratch the scabs can cause bleeding, pain, and even infections, in addition to damage to the pigment of the tattoo and leave permanent scars.
Instead of scratching, let the scabs fall off naturally, if you feel itching, you can apply a moisturizer without fragrance to relieve the discomfort.
2. Don't expose your tattoo to the sun
Exposure to the sun during the first few weeks after a tattoo can cause burns, irritation and loss of color. Therefore, you must protect your tattoo from direct sun using protective clothing such as a t-shirt or hat when you're outdoors.
It is also important to avoid tanning beds and sun lamps during this period, so if you're about to make your tattoo you can have this into account in case you have plans of going to the beach or the pool, you must make sure to apply a sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF) and reaplicarlo with frequency.
3. Avoid submerging your tattoo in water
Submerge your tattoo in water, in swimming pools, hot tubs or open water, you may increase the risk of infection. Avoid swimming, to swim in the tub or take a long bath during the first two weeks after the tattoo.
Opt for short showers with warm water and mild soap, make sure to thoroughly dry the tattoo with a clean towel, without rubbing.
4. Do not wear tight clothing or irritating
Tight clothing can rub the tattoo and cause irritation, this delays healing and increases the risk of infection. A better choice is to wear loose fitting clothes and breathable cotton during the first weeks after the tattoo and avoid synthetic fabrics, wool or other fabrics that can irritate the skin.
5. Do not neglect the hygiene
Maintain a good hygiene is crucial for proper healing of your tattoo, we recommend washing the area tattooed twice a day with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel and apply a moisturizer without fragrance.
6. Don't ignore the signs of infection
If you see any sign of infection in your tattoo, such as redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or pus, consult a doctor immediately. The infection of a tattoo can be serious and require treatment with antibiotics.
