You should never submerge a new tattoo in water for any length of time directly following a tattoo. If you're wondering just how long after getting your tattoo you can take a bath: the answer is only after your tattoo has healed completely which typically takes 3 to 4 weeks, and in some cases longer.
Tattoos are essentially open wounds, and exposing them to water too soon can lead to bacterial infections, skin irritation, and even damage to the tattoo design. Therefore, tattoo artists recommend waiting at least 2-4 weeks before submerging your new ink in swimming pools, hot tubs, or open water.
You can only soak a fresh tattoo once it's fully stopped peeling, for some people that's 2 weeks, for others that's 3-4 weeks. It all depends on colours used, size and location of the tattoo.
Getting your new tattoo too wet can prevent it from healing properly, and it might end up looking patchy. It's super important to keep your new tattoo clean. So having a shower is the best choice so you can wash your tattoo but not fully submerge it in water.
To avoid these potential risks and complications, it is important to follow proper aftercare procedures for your new tattoo. This includes avoiding submerging the tattoo in water, including baths, pools, and hot tubs, for at least 2-3 weeks after getting the tattoo.
Wash your tattoo until it is fully healed, typically within 2 to 4 weeks. Proper washing does not fade tattoos; it helps prevent infections and promotes healing.
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.
Skin irritation – New tattoos can be painful and irritating while they heal regardless, and submerging them in water–especially salt or chlorine–can cause stinging, burning, and even contact dermatitis. Tattoo damage – Water can cause fading and discoloration for new tattoos.
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.
Do not take a bath and fully submerge your tattoo for 3-4 weeks after getting a tattoo. The larger the tattoo, the longer we recommend you wait to fully submerge your tattoo in water. You should never submerge a new tattoo in water for any length of time directly following a tattoo.
Both Paul and Shuliar recommend Aquaphor healing ointment for tattoo aftercare because it's unscented and designed to create a protective healing barrier while allowing oxygen to pass through.
A thin layer is strongly suggested, too much aquaphor can pull out the ink and damage the quality of the tattoo, which results in a higher chance the tattoo will need a touch-up.
Over-the-Counter Treatments. Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid-based creams can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. However, it's crucial to select products specifically formulated for tattooed skin to avoid any adverse effects.
"You should also avoid scrubbing your tattoo or using harsh soaps as that can irritate healing skin." And while you may be tempted to take a bath, refrain from doing so. "You don't want to fully submerge your skin in a bath until it's fully healed," dermatologist, Anar Mikailov, MD, says.
It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before jumping into the shower. This initial waiting period gives your skin time to begin healing.
It is possible to over-moisturize a new tattoo, which can actually delay the healing process. Excess moisture in the skin can create the perfect environment for bacteria and germ growth, potentially causing side effects like inflammation, breakouts, infection, and tattoo blurring or fading.
Natural migration of pigment in the skin is manifested by: lines become visually wider; a small (about a millimeter) shadow may appear near the tattoo lines; there will be less empty space between the lines.
While a new tattoo can push out ink, along with blood and plasma, it typically does no harm and doesn't lead to a tattoo blowout. This leaking typically lasts no more than 48 hours. However, bruising from a new tattoo can make it look a little blurred or smudged as it goes through the healing process.