When getting a tattoo for the first time, many people don't realize that their skin won't look like the pictures that sparked their interest. As a matter of fact, they will be left with a plastic wrap around a red sore with delicate ink that will fall off easily. It takes some time and effort to heal a new tattoo, but it is definitely worth the effort.

How Do You Get Started?

As soon as your tattoo artist finishes the tattoo, they will clean the area with soap and lukewarm water. The artist will then cover the skin with a material, such as plastic or something else he or she prefers. This prevents germs from entering the open wound and causing infection.

The tattoo artist may also apply an ointment or lotion before wrapping up your tattoo. At that point, their duty ends and yours begins.

The First Thing to Do After Leaving a Tattoo Parlor

Depending on where you got your tattoo, we recommend staying in the tattoo studio for up to three hours before moving home. Your skin needs to heal during that time - it has been injured and should not be moved much. After you arrive home, you can remove the wrap and wash the area with lukewarm water. Don't forget to be gentle with yourself.

What is the Healing Time for a New Tattoo?

The catch is that you are healing your skin rather than the tattoo. When the skin is healthy, your tattoo will look good. Your skin heals at its own pace based on your immunity and hygiene, just like any other part of your body. Generally, it takes 2 to 3 weeks for the skin to heal so that you can resume your normal activities. It will take two to three months for your skin to return to its previous state.

Tattoo Care: What You Need to Know?

Taking a Bath
Whenever possible, use lukewarm water and special tattoo aftercare soap. You can probably ask your tattooist for a recommendation. Consult your pharmacist if you are unsure.

It is sufficient to gently rest the towel on top of the area when drying it. Don't be harsh with the towel. It would also be better to take a quick shower rather than soak in a bathtub. In the first few days, showering should not take more than four minutes. As a result, you should not swim until the tattoo has healed.


Using an Aftercare Lotion
There are many people who use antibacterial lotions. Some tattoo experts strongly oppose its use, even though it may help with bacterial infections.

Anyhow, tattoo aftercare lotions are available on the market. The healing process can be sped up by applying them two to three times a day. Don't overdo it, though.


Taking Care of the Peeling Skin
The skin will peel and scab. Keep them in place by not pulling them off. Allow them to fall on their own.

It is important to remember that pulling scabs or skin may result in your tattoo becoming unusable. As if you were tearing a piece of paper.


Itchy Skin
After getting a tattoo, itchy skin is common. The symptoms usually last for a week before gradually diminishing. The urge should not be given in to, however.

When your skin is calling to you, keep your mind occupied; think about something else. You can sometimes relieve itching by taking a short shower or gently tapping the area.


About Working Out
You are healing your body, as we mentioned in earlier tattoo blogs. By keeping your immune system overworked, you might put a lot of stress on it.

For at least a week (ideally two), you should refrain from exercising. Additionally, the gym is a great place to get infections, so at least for the first few days, stay away from it. Don't overdo it with sports that exhaust you. It is important to remember that taking it easy will help your tattoo heal faster.

About Eating
Like before, it's all about speeding up your body's healing process. If this is the case, eat foods that promote skin healing.

Put extra effort to get more protein, as well as your vitamins and carbs. You should eat more meat, beans, lentils, eggs, etc. Reduce your intake of junk food.

Wearing Clothes
You may find this challenging if you work. Dresses that cover tattoos without touching them are recommended by tattoo experts.

It may be virtually impossible, but don't wear anything tight around your tattoo. Keeping your clothing loose prevents you from ruining your tattoo and speeds up the healing process.

While Sleeping

It is never a good idea to lie down on the side where you have a tattoo. When you sleep, you can't control yourself, but try to lay in a position that won't ruin your tattoo even if you move.

Make use of the air conditioner in your room if it is available. Blankets and quilts that are too heavy will damage newly drawn tattoos.


Going Outdoors
After a tattoo, your skin is repairing and direct sunlight is very harmful to it. Avoid exposing it directly to the sun.

Even during times of shot exposure, you should wear sunscreen. Make sure you apply it gently and don't rub too hard. The next best thing to sunscreen is an umbrella if you don't like it.

Conclusion

In order to heal a new tattoo, it is mainly a matter of not touching the area too often. Additionally, too much sun, water, or even lotion can damage it. It is important to be careful, but not stressed out. For some time, following a few hygienic behaviors will help speed up the healing process.