Tattoo Aftercare Tips from your San Diego Tattoo Artist

Title: Tattoo Aftercare Tips from Your San Diego Tattoo Artist

Hey there, Chris Cockrill here, your friendly neighborhood tattoo artist in sunny San Diego. One of the most important parts of getting new tattoo art is proper aftercare. Follow these essential do’s and don'ts from a pro to help your new tattoo heal beautifully.

Using Antibiotic Ointment

I highly recommend gently applying a thin layer of a triple antibiotic cream like Neosporin one to two times per day. The cream formula allows the skin to breathe while providing protection against infection as the tattoo heals. Triple antibiotic creams are easier to evenly apply than thick ointments. However, other antibiotic creams like Polysporin or a fragrance-free ointment like Aquaphor can also work well if applied properly in a very thin layer. The key is to create a protective barrier without clogging pores. Heavy creams or ointments tend to be too thick for fresh tattoos.

Applying Ointment the Right Way

Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching the new tattoo. Apply a thin layer of ointment – more is not better here! Resist the urge to oversaturate, which can lead to pimples or irritation. Let the ointment fully absorb before putting clothes over it.

Washing Your Fresh Tattoo

When cleansing your new tattoo, use a gentle, unscented liquid antibacterial hand soap like Dial or Softsoap. Pump a small amount of soap into your palms, lather with water, then lightly wash the tattoo one to two times daily. Avoid heavily perfumed bars of soap or body washes, as fragrances can be irritating.

Be sure to use lukewarm water when rinsing - overly hot water can damage healing skin. Once rinsed, carefully pat dry with clean paper towels or a fresh disposable paper towel. Do not use old bath towels, as they harbor bacteria.

Air drying can disrupt the protective scabbing process, so gentle patting is essential. The key is to lightly cleanse away ointment, fluids and debris without over-scrubbing the tender skin.

Alternative Aftercare Methods

Second skin bandages like Saniderm work for some clients when applied correctly. Leave on for 24 hours, then remove, wash, and reapply. Don’t keep bandages on for more than 3-5 days maximum.

You can learn more about Saniderm and purchase some here if you would like to try it. Saniderm

Healing Expectations

It’s normal to see some swelling, redness, peeling, and itching during healing. This usually subsides within 2-3 weeks. Contact your artist immediately if you notice signs of infection like oozing, fever, or spreading redness.

Long Term Care

Caring for your new tattoo doesn't stop once it's healed! There are a few key things to keep in mind to make your ink last for years to come:

Sun Protection - One of the biggest threats to your tattoo's vibrancy is UV rays. Be diligent about applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever your tattoo will be exposed to sun. Reapply frequently if swimming or sweating. Sun damage can cause fading and blurring over time.

Moisturizing - Keep your healed tattoo looking crisp by moisturizing daily with an unscented, hypoallergenic lotion. Let the lotion fully absorb into the skin. Try to avoid heavily scented moisturizers, as fragrances can be irritating for some skin types.

Exfoliating - Use a soft washcloth or loofah to gently exfoliate tattooed areas in the shower. This removes dead skin cells that can cause ink to appear dull. Do not scrub harshly, as this can damage skin.

Touch Ups - Over years of sun exposure, friction from clothing, and normal skin regeneration, your tattoo's lines can start to blur slightly. This is normal! Don't hesitate to come in 6-12 months after getting inked for a quick touch up to keep it looking sharp.

With the right long-term care, your tattoo will stay vibrant and crisp for decades. I'm always here to provide tune-up sessions and touch ups as needed. Don't hesitate to reach out down the road if your ink ever starts looking dull!

Keep it Simple

Finally, remember to keep your tattoo aftercare routine simple and listen to your body! Everyone heals differently, so don't hesitate to contact your artist if the recommended aftercare isn't working for your skin. We can always adjust the approach - whether that means switching ointments, changing cleansing frequency, or using less/more intensive moisturizing. Finding the right aftercare balance is key for optimal healing and vibrant ink