The Best Aftercare Tips for Tattoos and Piercings
Your inking or piercing experience is over-and-out, but the thrill does not end there. Giving good care to a fresh tattoo or piece of jewelry is just as important as any decision you might have made to adorn yourself in these first instances. Conversely, if not well cared for, things may get sappy—and nobody wants that.
Clean, but Not Too Much
So, you just took that plastic wrap off your brand-new tattoo, and you're thinking, "What's next?" Wash the area with lukewarm water and mild fragrance-free soap. No scrubbing is allowed; this isn't the time for that. Gently clean the tattoo with your hands and pat it dry with a clean towel. No rubbing because that messes up the aesthetics.
Piercings? Same idea, just a little softer. Wash the area with a saline solution or a piercing spray—twice a day—which your piercer probably recommended. Just don't be harsh on it.
Leave It Moisturized, But Let It Breathe
Tattoo aftercare all comes down to striking a balance. The trick is to keep it moisturized but not slather heavy ointments on it. Just go with a thin layer of unscented balm or lotion.
With piercings, you're better off just sticking with keeping it clean. No creams or oils are necessary. Let the piercing breathe and heal on its own.
Be Patient—Healing Takes Time
Now, here's the hard part—waiting. Tattoos may appear to be healed on the surface after about 2 to 4 weeks, but the deeper layers of your skin may take longer. Also, during this time, try to steer clear of peeling skin or picking scabs, too. You don't want scars.
Piercings, however, are another thing altogether. Simple ones like ear lobes might heal in a couple of months, but more complex ones, such as cartilage or septum piercings? You'll need more patience. In the case of a septum piercing, which generally takes longer, you would want to take a look at a septum piercing healing guide. The time may extend up to 6 months.
Avoid the Sun and Pools
Of all things that could mess up your new tattoo, well, the sun could be listed top on the list. UV rays happen to be the worst nightmare of any tattoo when it's fresh. Slather your ink in clothes or, once it's fully healed, a high-SPF sunscreen to keep it sharp. For now, just stay out of the sun as much as possible.
And pools? Big no for both tattoos and piercings. Chlorine and bacteria—none of them will do your fresh body art any favors.
Watch for Infection
While, for the most part, healing is a pretty straightforward process, it is always wise to make sure there aren't any signs that anything could be wrong. Tattoos and piercings should be healing progressively. Redness emanating from the site, heavy swelling, or even a fever are ways to tell that it may be time to seek professional help. If something doesn't feel quite right, follow your instincts. A quick check-in with a professional can save you from unnecessary discomfort.
Follow Your Artist's Instructions
Finally, follow the instructions that your artist or piercer has given you. Every tattoo and piercing is different; aftercare can vary depending on placement or how intricate a piece of work was. Your artist would know best, so one therefore trusts them fully.
Conclusion
The aftercare of a fresh tattoo or piercing should not be taken as the least bit frustrating. All it takes is care, patience, and understanding your body's needs.