Scabbing and Peeling Stage (Days 3-7) As your tattoo begins to scab and peel, it's safe to start introducing lotion. This phase is when the tattooed skin begins to dry out and itch. Use a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion to prevent cracking and maintain hydration.
After using ointment for a new tattoo, you should wait until your tattoo has completely healed before switching to lotion. This typically takes about 2-3 weeks (1).
After using ointment for a new tattoo, you should wait until your tattoo has completely healed before switching to lotion. This typically takes about 2-3 weeks (1).
After the tattoo has healed, it is usually suggested to moisturise for 2 weeks to one month. In most cases, ointments are best used in the early phases of the healing process (2 first weeks). Ointments are high in vitamins and minerals that your body needs. For the rest of the healing process, a lotion is ideal.
Only apply ointment for as long as it takes for your tattoo to peel, usually 3-7 days. When the peeling begins, the tattooed skin will flake like a sunburn. At all costs avoid picking at the cracked and flaking skin. When the tattoo has fully entered the peeling phase you should NOT apply any more ointment.
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.
"During the healing process, you should moisturize your tattoo three to six times a day," Ladna says, explaining that keeping your tattoo hydrated during the initial days is especially critical. "If your tattoo becomes too dry, the healing may actually take longer, and you may risk losing color saturation."
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.
Non scented lotion after day 2/3 is fine. Just make sure it's from a squeeze or pump bottle, not a tub.
Until the surface of the tattoo is healed (at a minimum of two to three weeks), wash the area gently 2-3 times per day. After cleaning the tattoo during this two to three week period, gently apply a thin coat of a lotion-based care product. We recommend After Inked tattoo moisturizer and aftercare lotion.
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.
On the day of your appointment, wash the area where you want to get tattooed with mild soap and water. Pat it dry with a clean towel and avoid applying any products such as lotions, perfumes, or makeup.
Some tattoo artists recommend waiting between 24-48 hours before applying moisturizer, though others recommend doing so as soon as the first wash. A person with a fresh tattoo should follow their tattoo artist's instructions on when to start using moisturizer.
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.
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.
For Days 3-14: after cleaning tattoo, switch to a lotion (Lubriderm®, Vaseline Intensive Care® †NOT JELLY, or Eucerin®) after washing your tattoo and work it into skin. Lotion should be applied 4-6 times a day for the first 2-3 weeks.
You do not need to apply any creams, ointments, or lotions for the first seven days, your body will naturally heal your new tattoo.
"If there is some scabbing or flaking, we advise clients not to pick and to allow the scab or dry skin to come off on its own," says Otsuji. "Picking at your tattoo during the peeling stage can result in it appearing patchy, distorted, and dull once healed."