Caring for your new tattoo
After getting tattooed, leave the bandage on for at least one hour afterward. While removing the bandage, you may want to apply warm water to help the bandage release without sticking. After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo with warm/hot water and a fragrance-free, dye-free, mild soap (this can be an antibacterial soap if you wish). You want the water to be as hot as possible without burning yourself. This will clean the tattoo and remove any old ointment, dried blood, or anything else that may be there. The hot water will also increase blood flow to the area which will help stimulate healing. After washing the tattoo, you will want to apply a small amount of ointment.
When you apply the ointment you will only want to use the smallest amount possible to cover the tattoo. You don't want the ointment to glaze the tattoo. You should rub it in until there is only a slight coating. Any more will keep oxygen away from the tattoo and prolong healing.
If you use A&D ointment, you will only use it for 3 to 4 days. After this time stop using the ointment and switch to a gentle lotion such as Lubriderm or Curel for sensitive skin. Apply lotion anytime the tattoo gets dry. If you are using Burt's Bees, Naked Salve, or Aquaphor, you can use that for the entire healing process.
Your body will heal much more quickly if you take good care of it. Get plenty of sleep, exercise, eat healthy, and make sure to get plenty of vitamins every day. Water intake is also essential to healing and maintaining your tattoo. Be aware that caffeinated beverages, sodas, and sweating can dehydrate your skin therefore not allowing the tattoo to receive adequate nutrients needed for the healing process. This can also give existing healed tattoos a dull appearance.
Do not expose the tattoo to direct sunlight for at least 4 weeks. After that time you will want to use a SPF 15 or greater sunblock to avoid bleaching by the sun. Do not go swimming, hot tubbing, or soaking for at least 4 weeks after getting tattooed. Do not pick or scratch scabs if they form on your tattoo. Do not listen to your friends if they tell you something different, this is our job and we know what we are doing.