Healing Tattoos: A Comprehensive Guide
Tattoo healing is a critical aspect of the tattooing process. While every individual’s experience is unique, and the ideal method may vary from person to person, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of the basic principles of aftercare. This blog aims to supplement our detailed aftercare guide, providing additional insights to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.
The Best Way to Heal a Tattoo
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all method for tattoo healing. Factors such as skin type, the size and complexity of the tattoo, and even the location on the body all play a role in determining the best aftercare approach. For instance, a small, fine-line tattoo will require much less care than a large piece that was completed over several back-to-back sessions.
At our Da Nang tattoo studio, we recommend an aftercare regimen designed to be effective for most skin types and tattoo styles. Even for clients with multiple tattoos who may have found what works best for them, we encourage attention to the latest aftercare practices. Tattoo care has evolved significantly, especially with the introduction of new products that enhance the healing process.
Second Skin: The Game-Changer in Tattoo Healing
One of the most notable advancements in tattoo aftercare is the use of “Second Skin” products. This ultra-thin adhesive layer covers the tattoo and the immediate surrounding area, helping to speed up the healing process while keeping the tattoo clean and free from dirt and bacteria during its most delicate stage.
Although adverse reactions to the adhesive are rare, they can occur. However, with proper preparation, the risk is minimal. Despite this, “Second Skin” is far superior to the older method of wrapping the tattoo in plastic wrap and tape. It’s worth the extra cost to include this in our aftercare routine at our studio.
Choosing the Right Ointments and Creams
Over the years, many ointments and creams have come and gone. Some that were highly recommended at one time may later be discouraged due to changes in their formulation or the availability of better options. For example, while papaw ointment was once a go-to in our Australian studio, we found that it could cause adverse reactions or slow down the healing process if applied too heavily.
At our Da Nang Tattoo Studio, we provide Vitamin A+D Ointment at the end of the session. This reliable moisturizing and healing ointment comes in convenient-sized sachets, allowing us to offer it without additional cost. After applying the ointment, we cover the tattoo with “Second Skin” and provide another piece for the following day if an ink sack (excess ink and plasma) forms in the early stages of healing.
We advise clients to apply a thin layer of Vitamin A+D Ointment twice daily after removing the “Second Skin,” just enough to keep the tattoo from drying out. It’s crucial to remember that “less is more”—over-applying ointment can block skin pores and cause ingrown hairs and pimples. If the tattoo feels too dry, increase the frequency to three times a day rather than applying more ointment at once.
Monitoring the Healing Process
It’s essential to monitor the tattoo and surrounding skin closely during the healing process. While complications are rare, they are easier to address when caught early. Redness around the tattoo is normal and should subside as healing progresses. However, if the redness deepens or spreads, it may indicate an infection, and you should consult a doctor, as antibiotics might be necessary.
Infections are uncommon but can occur, especially if proper care isn’t taken. A common cause of infection is contact with pets. While we love our furry friends, keeping them away from fresh tattoos is crucial. For example, avoid letting a cat sit on an armrest if you have a healing tattoo on your inner forearm, or prevent a dog from licking a tattoo on your leg.
Another frequent cause of healing issues is carelessness. It’s easy to become complacent, especially after getting several tattoos. However, it’s vital to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands before applying ointments or touching the tattoo and using a clean towel or paper towel to dry it after washing.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Tattoos typically heal in 2-3 weeks, although some may take longer. Even if a tattoo appears healed after a few weeks, the skin may continue healing for 2-3 months. During this time, the tattoo might become itchy—sometimes intensely so. Resist the urge to scratch! Instead, a light moisturizing application can help alleviate the itch.
It’s also important to avoid irritating the healing tattoo with clothing. Loose-fitting, light clothing can help prevent irritation. Additionally, do not pick at scabs or flakes of skin, as they protect the new skin underneath. Picking them can slow down the healing process and lead to complications.
Avoid long showers during the flaky stage of healing, and under no circumstances should you wash away the flaky skin when it’s wet. It’s tempting, but this can cause more harm than good, leading to a longer healing process. Once the tattoo has finished flaking, using a body lotion or skin moisturizer can help restore the skin to its natural state.
We provide full aftercare to help our clients get the best possible result from their new tattoo.
Protecting Your Tattoo from the Elements
Chlorine, salt water, and sun exposure can prematurely fade your tattoo during the early stages of healing. Therefore, avoid swimming and sunbathing for at least three weeks after getting tattooed. Even after the tattoo has fully healed, sun exposure can still affect the ink over time, so always apply sunscreen before heading out into the sun.
Touch-Ups: When They Are Necessary
Sometimes, despite the best efforts of both the tattoo artist and the client, a tattoo may require a touch-up session to fix any ink that didn’t hold or was scratched out during healing. Most tattoo artists offer free touch-ups within a few months of the original session. At our studio in Da Nang, we provide free touch-ups for up to one year after the tattoo session.