Can I drink ibuprofen after tattoo?

Author: Gretchen King  |  Last update: Sunday, June 1, 2025

This is normal for larger tattoos. If some swelling/redness is present the day after your tattoo, and it is uncomfortable or bothering you, it is appropriate to use ice (20 minutes) and/or an NSAID (ibuprofen, Advil, aleve, naproxen) to help bring the swelling down.

How long after a tattoo can I take ibuprofen?

I would avoid using ibuprofen for at least the first 3 days after the tattoo. The reason being is that ibuprofen inhibits the molecules that widely contribute to inflammation. Inflammation is the body's first step to healing a wound (a tattoo is a wound).

What pain reliever to take after tattoo?

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may help ease the pain following a tattooing procedure. However, it is unclear if acetaminophen can effectively prevent pain from tattooing procedures. Instead, some tattoo artists recommend topical skin-numbing products.

What draws ink out of a new tattoo?

To remove fresh tattoo ink from the skin, you can use a variety of methods. Some people use a mixture of water and salt, while others use a commercial tattoo removal product. You can also try using a Q-tip or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol.

What pulls tattoo ink out of skin?

Laser tattoo removal is likely the most commonly heard of tattoo removal method. Laser tattoo removal works by firing concentrated light at ink in a tattoo, which then breaks the tattoo into smaller pieces so your body can process the tattoo out over time.

Can I take painkillers after tattoo?

How long after a tattoo can you shower normally?

You can shower 3-4 hours after getting a tattoo, if you have a Saniderm bandage on, however, if you have a plastic wrap wait 24 hours to unwrap your tattoo and shower. In either case, shower in cold or lukewarm water and avoid prolonged soaking or submerging your tattoo in water for 3-4 weeks.

What messes up tattoo healing?

NEVER itch or pick your tattoo: Picking off scabs or itching your tattoo will delay healing and may damage your ink. Drying your tattoo with washcloths or towels can also remove scabs and delay healing. Friction from wearing tight pants or shirts over your tattoo can also irritate the skin.

What can you not eat after a tattoo?

Examples of the main food to avoid include:
  • Soft drinks.
  • Processed juices.
  • Fried foods, such as French fries, pastries and other savory snacks.
  • Fast food.
  • Pork and processed meats, such as sausage, ham, sausage, bacon, mortadella and salami.
  • Sweets, cream-filled biscuits, cakes, ready-made cake batters, cereal bars.

Is dry healing a tattoo better?

Benefits of Dry Healing

Natural Healing Process Dry healing allows the body to use its natural healing mechanisms, which can result in a more vibrant and detailed tattoo. Simplified Routine Without the need for multiple applications of ointments or creams, the aftercare routine becomes simpler and less time-consuming.

Is Tylenol or ibuprofen better for tattoo?

With that said, don't take painkillers before getting a tattoo either. Painkillers like Advil and Ibuprofen also thin the blood, which will lead to similar issues that alcohol has. Acetaminophen may potentially be fine to take, but should be discussed with the artist beforehand.

How long does ibuprofen stay in your system?

But it may take at least 10 hours for your body to completely rid your system of ibuprofen. This is because it has a half life of 1.9 to 2.2 hours and experts generally agree it takes 4 to 5 half lives for your body to completely eliminate ibuprofen, which equals approximately 10 hours.

Should you ice a new tattoo?

Apply a cold pack.

This can help reduce swelling, bruising or itching. Never apply ice directly to the skin as it can cause tissue damage. Instead, put a layer of fabric between the cold pack and the skin.

What is the best pain reliever after a tattoo?

“You can take things like over-the-counter painkillers, but the sharp pain you have at the surface of the skin will still likely be felt during the procedure.” You can take acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil) can help with any soreness that occurs in the hours after you get your tattoo, but there's ...

Can I drink alcohol after a tattoo?

Wait at least 24-48 hours after getting a tattoo: To give your body the best chance to heal properly, it's recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours before drinking alcohol. This will give your body time to start the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.

What you Cannot do after a tattoo?

What NOT to do after getting a tattoo
  • Scratching.
  • Picking at scabs.
  • Exfoliating the area.
  • Using petroleum jelly.
  • Direct sunlight.
  • Applying sunscreen to the area until the tattoo is fully healed.
  • Wearing tight clothing.
  • Immersing the area in water (hot tubs, bathtubs, pools, etc.) until the tattoo is fully healed.

Does drinking water help heal a tattoo?

Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin hydrated from the inside out, promoting faster healing. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Hydrated skin not only heals faster but also retains the ink better, keeping your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant.

When to stop using Aquaphor on a tattoo?

Use the Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days then switch to a regular FRAGRANCE-FREE lotion such as Lubriderm, or any other fragrance-free brand. 5. Fresh tattoos sometimes “weep” during the first couple of days, meaning that plasma and ink form a thin moist coating on the skin. This can be DABBED with a clean paper towel.

What damages tattoos the most?

Excessive Sun Exposure. Excessive sun exposure can quickly ruin a new tattoo. Especially during the first 40 days, stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you have to go outside, then make sure to cover up your fresh tattoo with clothing.

What makes a tattoo heal faster?

Bruce Katz, a board-certified dermatologist and director of the JUVA Skin and Laser Center, keeping your tattooed skin moisturized can speed the healing process. “People think that if you let things air out, you don't put ointment on it, you let it dry out and it heals faster – that's an old wives tale,” Katz says.

Can I rub my tattoo while it's peeling?

The answer is no. Tempting as it is to speed things up, picking or pulling at peeling skin can damage your tattoo. Those flakes are holding onto ink and skin cells that are still healing.

What happens if a new tattoo gets wet?

While it might seem harmless in the heat of summer with an inviting pool in your midst, several issues can pop up if you allow your tattoo to get wet before it's fully healed. Infection – Since fresh tattoos are open wounds that require healing, exposing them to water also exposes them to any harmful bacteria present.

How to sleep with a new tattoo?

Tips for sleeping with a new tattoo
  1. Make sure your bedding is clean. ...
  2. Get lots of high-quality sleep. ...
  3. Wear loose clothing. ...
  4. Clean your tattoo before going to sleep. ...
  5. Make sure your pets stay out of bed. ...
  6. Ask your tattoo artist for advice. ...
  7. 5 Tips To Create The Perfect Princess Bedroom.

Why is my tattoo fading after 3 days?

Don't worry, this is completely natural. It happens because the old skin, damaged during the tattooing process, forms a thin layer over your tattoo and masks its true appearance. In time this old skin will naturally exfoliate itself, revealing your tattoo underneath in all its vibrant glory.

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