How to Tattoo Aftercare Tips

Getting a tattoo is an intensely personal experience and failure to follow correct how to tattoo aftercare shouldn’t interfere with the pleasure of getting a tattoo. It is extremely important for the tattoo artist to understand how to provide appropriate aftercare as well as instruct clients in how to treat their tattoo in the days following.

There are several areas that should be addressed in proper tattoo aftercare. The first steps in aftercare should be provided by the actual tattoo artist and then further instructions provided to the client for self-care.

After the tattooing process is complete the tattoo area should be cleaned completely with green soap and then dried thoroughly. This should be followed up with a heavy coat of Bacitracin Ointment or some other type of triple antibiotic ointment. Be sure to use a tongue blade to apply the antibiotic ointment. At this time, you should cover the site with appropriate padding. You may choose to bandage it with Kerlex or tape it down. If you do elect to tape it down; however, be sure to use only Hypoallergenic tape.

Next the client will need to be instructed in how to tattoo aftercare to ensure everything goes smoothly once he or she leaves your shop. Be sure to tell them not to remove the bandage until two to three hours after the tattooing process is complete.

The tattoo area can be washed and cleaned; however, this should only be done with Ivory soap and ice cold water. After the area has been washed it should be blotted dry and then allowed to rest for at about ten to fifteen minutes.

At this point a very thin layer of Bacitracin or other triple antibiotic ointment can be applied and worked in. This should be done every three hours to ensure the area remains shiny.

Always make sure you inform the client to avoid swimming as well as direct sunlight until the area has healed. This usually takes up to about 30 days. Finally, the client should be instructed not to pick at scabs if they develop. The client should expect the healing to itch; however, it is extremely important not to scratch the scab itself. It is okay to scratch around the area to relieve the itching.

Taking the time to ensure you provider proper how to tattoo aftercare tips to clients will ensure they receive the best experience possible from their new tattoo. Not only will it lessen the chances of pain and possible infection, but it will also ensure the client’s tattoo heals properly, looking excellent and providing good feedback for your skills as a tattoo artist. Remember the best form of advertising is word of mouth. Keep your customers happy and not only will they be back, but they’ll bring their friends too. Make proper how to tattoo aftercare instructions a standard part of your business practices. To be sure your clients understand everything, be sure to provide them with a How To Tattoo Aftercare tip sheet at the end of their appointment.