Caring for your new tattoo ensures it heals properly maintains its vibrancy and from infection. Following simple tattoo aftercare steps and knowing what to look out for reduces your chances of complications with your tattoo.

Remove the Protective covering

After getting your tattoo, your artist will cover it with a protective layer to shield it from dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants. The type of covering may vary, but typically, it will be either second skin or plastic wrap.

Second Skin:

• When to Remove: Leave the second skin on for 1-2 days.
• How to Remove: Gently peel off the second skin using lukewarm water or during a shower. Avoid ripping it off, as this can irritate the skin and disrupt healing. Take your time to ensure the adhesive comes off easily.
• Cleaning: Once removed, clean the tattoo with basic, pH-balanced soap. Use gentle circular motions to wash away any residue or fluids. Rinse thoroughly and pat the skin dry with a clean towel—do not rub the skin, as this can cause irritation.

Plastic Wrap:

• When to Remove: Remove the plastic wrap after 2-4 hours.
• How to Remove: Use water to gently loosen the plastic wrap before carefully unwrapping it. This step helps avoid unnecessary friction or irritation to the tattooed area.
• Cleaning: Clean the tattoo with pH-balanced soap, using a gentle circular motion to wash away any plasma, ink, or bacteria. Again, pat the skin dry with a clean, soft towel.

Apply Moisturiser & Ongoing Care

Once the tattoo is clean and dry, it’s time to moisturise. Keeping your tattoo hydrated helps promote healing and preserves the vibrant colours of the ink.

Bepanthan Tattoo Cream:

• Apply Bepanthen Tattoo Cream to the tattoo 4-8 times daily or as needed for the next 14 days. This cream is designed for tattoo care and helps prevent excessive dryness and scabbing.
• Why Bepanthen? The cream contains Pro-Vitamin B5, which aids in the healing process at a cellular level. It works by helping to repair damaged skin, reducing irritation, and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
• Moisture Protection: Bepanthen forms a breathable, protective barrier over the tattooed area, locking in moisture and preventing the tattoo from drying out. Hydrated skin creates an ideal environment for the tattoo to heal while allowing the skin to breathe.

Things to Avoid During Healing:

• Excessive Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can cause your tattoo to fade and irritate while it’s healing. Try to keep the area out of the sun as much as possible during the first few weeks.
• Touching or Scratching: Avoid touching your tattoo unnecessarily to prevent transferring bacteria from your hands. If the tattoo itches, don’t scratch! Instead, tap or gently pat the area to relieve the sensation. Scratching can damage the skin and introduce infection.
• Water Submersion: Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or soaking in water until your tattoo is fully healed.

Watch for Signs of Infection

Even with the best care, infection is always a risk, especially with any break in the skin’s surface. To protect your tattoo from complications, it’s essential to recognise the early signs of infection and take action immediately.

Signs of Infection:

Keep an eye on your tattoo for any unusual symptoms. Common signs of infection include:

• Increased redness around the tattoo
• Pain or tenderness that doesn’t subside
• Warmth or swelling in the area
• Pus or unusual discharge

If you notice any of these symptoms or if the tattoo seems to be healing improperly, you must seek advice from your tattoo artist or a medical professional to address the issue.

Additional Aftercare Tips

• Patience is Key: Healing times vary from person to person, but most tattoos take 2-4 weeks to heal fully. It’s important to be patient and continue caring for your tattoo even after the initial healing period to ensure it stays vibrant and intact.
• Avoid Tight Clothing: For the first few days, avoid wearing tight clothing that may rub against your tattoo. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing to prevent irritation.
• Hydrate and Stay Healthy: Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy diet can also help promote skin healing. Proper hydration supports your skin’s natural ability to repair itself.