Tattoos need care. This is true for the first few days after getting a tattoo, but even after weeks, months or even years, there are important things to keep in mind. Of course, over time you develop your own way of caring for your tattoo, but the basic needs of a tattoo always remain the same. And I have summarised these for you here. If you have any suggestions, be sure to share them in the comments!
The right cream
A freshly stung tattoo is a wound, which is why I recommend a wound and healing ointment from the pharmacy for the first few weeks during healing. The healing process takes about 15 to 25 days, and each person's skin behaves differently. Pure unrefinied shea butter comes after healing for use. For new as well as existing tattoos, regular care is essential as it "preserves" the colours of the tattoo and protects your skin from environmental influences.
Instructions for care after tattooing
The first days
During the healing phase, your tattoo is super sensitive. Care and hygiene are very important! The more thorough the care, the better the final result.
- Only touch the tattoo with freshly washed hands.
- You can remove the protective foil 4-5 hours after the tattooing. Wash the tattooed area carefully with lukewarm water and/or PH-neutral soap and dry.
- As soon as it is dry, apply a thin layer of ointment.
- Ideally, you should let the tattoo breathe in the air afterwards. If this is not possible, cover the tattoo with fresh foil.
- Repeat this process every 3-4 hours.
The first weeks
To keep your tattoo as colourful as possible, experts recommend avoiding crusting. It is important that you find a balance. The skin should neither dry out nor soften.
- Wash and apply cream to the tattoo 3-4 times a day if possible.
- By the way, you can take a normal shower. The shower should just not be too hot and too long, as this puts additional strain on the skin.
- Continue to wear loose clothing or, if this is not possible, cover the tattoo with foil.
- If it itches (normal in healing) do not scratch.
- If there is a scab, i.e. a crust, do not scratch it. Wait until it falls off on its own.
- Avoid solarium, sauna and bathing.
- Protect the tattooed areas from direct sunlight.
!!! Please note that this is general and non-medical information. Depending on the location and type of tattoo, a tattoo requires special care. Therefore, follow the instructions of your tattoo artist or tattoo studio. If you have individual questions, these experts are also the best people to contact.
The right care for long-term beautiful tattoos
To ensure that your tattoo does not lose its colour intensity, regular tattoo care is and always will be an issue - even, and especially, after healing.
Point 1: Care!
Always moisturise after showering with a natural product if possible. I recommend unrefined organic shea butter. It is important that it is of the highest quality!
You ask yourself, why shea butter? It's simple, it has super many benefits for tattoos and for your skin in general. And you're supporting a traditional craft from Ghana, West Africa, yeah!
Point 2: Sun protection!
In the first year, use a sun protection factor of at least 50. For colour tattoos stay at factor 50, for others (taking into account your skin type) reduce to factor 25.
And remember: Never change a winning system
There is no one right way to get a perfectly healed tattoo. There are success stories without ointments towards dry healing, but also good healing with shea butter, coconut oil or mixed ointments. If you know a life hack for tattoo care or have some other tips and tricks, I'd love to hear from you!
Many greetings
Sandra
Natural cosmetician & founder SHEA YEAH
P.S. Not so tattooed, just tattooed my butt at 16 on a short trip to Amsterdam after a coffee shop :-) And later 2 points on my feet at a party, because I wanted to make a point :-) And you like this?
