How I Made My 10-Year-Old Tattoo Look Brand New Again
My Ink’s Mid-Life Crisis Makeover
My first tattoo, a black linework piece on my forearm, was looking dull and faded after ten years. I decided to give it a “makeover.” The routine was simple. First, I started regularly exfoliating the area with a gentle glycolic acid lotion twice a week. This removed the layer of dead, dull skin cells sitting on top of the ink. Second, I got religious about moisturizing the area every single day. The combination of removing the old and hydrating the new made the lines look sharper and the blacks look deeper. It looks almost as crisp as the day I got it.
The Ultimate “Tattoo Healing” Skincare Routine (The First 30 Days)
The Most Important Month in Your Tattoo’s Life
A new tattoo is essentially a beautiful, open wound. Healing it correctly for the first 30 days is crucial. My artist gave me a simple, perfect routine. For the first few days, I gently washed it twice a day with a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap and applied a very thin layer of a healing ointment like Aquaphor. After about day three, when the peeling started, I switched from the heavy ointment to a simple, unscented lotion. That’s it. No complicated products. Just gentle cleansing and light hydration until it was fully healed.
The Sunscreen Mistake That’s Fading Your Tattoos Faster Than Anything Else
The Silent Killer of Crisp, Black Ink
I used to think my tattoos were safe as long as I wasn’t actively trying to get a tan. I was so wrong. My friend who is a tattoo artist told me that UV exposure is the number one cause of tattoo fading, especially for black ink. Even the incidental sun you get while driving your car or sitting near a window breaks down the ink particles over time. Now, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of my daily routine. I apply an SPF 30 or higher to all of my tattoos every single morning.
I Tested 5 “Tattoo-Specific” Moisturizers. Are They Better Than a Basic Lotion?
The Great Tattoo Lotion Showdown
The market is now full of pricey lotions marketed specifically for tattoos. I wondered if they were any better than my basic CeraVe lotion. I bought five different “tattoo” moisturizers and tested them. They were all good; they were hydrating and fragrance-free. But when I compared their ingredient lists to my simple drugstore lotion, they were remarkably similar, often containing the same core ingredients like shea butter and ceramides. The verdict: a good, unscented body lotion works perfectly fine. You’re paying extra for the “tattoo” marketing.
How to Prepare Your Skin for a Long Tattoo Session
Getting Your Canvas Ready for the Needle
I was getting a large piece on my thigh that would take about six hours. My artist gave me some crucial prep advice. For the week leading up to my appointment, I made sure to moisturize the area every single day. Well-hydrated skin takes ink better and makes the process smoother. The day of, I made sure the area was clean and I didn’t apply any lotion, as it can interfere with the stencil. I also drank a ton of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. This prep made the long session much more comfortable.
My “Holy Grail” Ointment for the Peeling and Itching Phase
The Soothing Balm That Saved My Sanity
Around day four of healing a new tattoo, the dreaded itching and peeling begins. It can be maddening. Scratching is the worst thing you can do. My holy grail product for this phase is Aquaphor Healing Ointment. It’s a simple, occlusive balm that does two things perfectly. First, it keeps the peeling skin hydrated, which reduces the temptation to pick at it. Second, it creates a protective barrier that soothes the intense itchiness. A very thin layer applied after washing was the only thing that got me through that phase without losing my mind.
The Best Sunscreens for Tattoos (Mineral vs. Chemical)
Which SPF Best Protects Your Ink Investment?
When it comes to protecting tattoos, any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen. But I have my preferences. For a brand new, healing tattoo, you should only use a mineral sunscreen (with zinc oxide/titanium dioxide). It sits on top of the skin and is less likely to cause irritation. For my fully healed tattoos, I prefer a chemical sunscreen. They are often formulated to be more lightweight and rub in completely clear, which means they don’t leave a chalky, white cast over my beautiful, vibrant ink.
How to Exfoliate Your Tattooed Skin Without Causing Damage
Buffing Your Ink Back to Life
Exfoliating the skin over a healed tattoo is the key to keeping it looking bright and crisp. It removes the dull, dead layer of skin that can cloud the ink. However, you need to be gentle. A harsh, gritty scrub can be too abrasive. My favorite method is chemical exfoliation. I use a body lotion that contains a gentle acid, like glycolic or lactic acid. I use it two or three times a week. It effectively smooths and brightens the skin without any harsh scrubbing, making my tattoos look significantly more vibrant.
I Used a “Color-Enhancing” Tattoo Balm. Did It Actually Make My Ink Pop?
My Honest Review of a “Tattoo Brightener”
I was skeptical of the “color-enhancing” tattoo balms I saw online, but I bought one to try on my older, colored tattoos. The product was a thick, waxy balm. When I applied it, the effect was immediate and impressive. The colors looked deeper, richer, and more saturated. But I realized it wasn’t a permanent change. The occlusive, slightly shiny balm was essentially just a very good moisturizer that created an optical effect, like putting a clear top coat on a painting. It works for a temporary pop, but a good daily lotion gives a similar, more sustained effect.
The Skincare Ingredients You Should NEVER Use on a New Tattoo
Don’t Put That on Your Fresh Ink!
A new tattoo is a wound, and you have to treat it gently. There are several skincare ingredients you should absolutely avoid during the healing process. Do not use any products containing fragrance, as they can cause major irritation. Avoid all exfoliants, both physical scrubs and chemical acids like glycolic acid. And definitely do not use any products with strong actives like retinol. For the first month, your routine should be boring: a gentle, fragrance-free soap and a simple, unscented moisturizer. That’s it.
My “Tattoo Aftercare” Kit: Everything You Need for Less Than $30
Healing Your Ink Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
You don’t need fancy, expensive “tattoo” products to heal your new ink perfectly. My go-to aftercare kit can be bought at any drugstore for less than $30. It contains three things. First, a bottle of a gentle, unscented antibacterial soap, like Dial Gold. Second, a tube of Aquaphor Healing Ointment for the first few days. And third, a bottle of a simple, fragrance-free lotion, like Lubriderm or Cetaphil, for the remainder of the healing process. This simple, affordable kit is recommended by artists and has healed all my tattoos beautifully.
How to Shave Over a Healed Tattoo Without Causing Irritation
A Smooth Shave Without Damaging Your Art
Once your tattoo is fully healed (at least a month old), you can shave over it. But the skin can still be a little sensitive. My method is to be extra gentle. I make sure to use a sharp, fresh razor blade, as a dull blade will pull at the skin. I apply a generous amount of a sensitive-skin shaving cream to create a protective lather. And I always shave with the grain of the hair growth over the tattooed area. This gives me a close shave without causing razor burn or irritation on my expensive ink.
The Best Way to Clean a New Tattoo
Simple, Gentle, and Effective
Cleaning a new tattoo can be nerve-wracking, but the process is simple. My artist taught me the perfect method. Twice a day, I wash my hands thoroughly. Then, using only my fingertips (a washcloth is too abrasive), I gently cleanse the tattoo with a fragrance-free, antibacterial liquid soap and lukewarm water. I rinse it thoroughly and then gently pat it completely dry with a clean paper towel, not a bath towel which can harbor bacteria. This simple, gentle process keeps it clean and prevents infection.
My Experience with “Second Skin” / Saniderm vs. Traditional Healing
The Modern vs. The Classic Healing Method
For my first tattoos, I used the traditional healing method: wash twice a day and apply ointment. It worked fine but was messy. For my latest tattoo, my artist used a “second skin” bandage (like Saniderm). It’s a clear, adhesive, breathable bandage that you leave on for three to five days. It was a game-changer. I could shower normally, and I didn’t have to worry about ointment getting on my clothes. When I removed it, the tattoo was already past the initial messy phase. For me, the convenience is well worth it.
How to Deal with a Pimple That Forms on Your Tattoo
The Unwelcome Guest on Your Fresh Ink
It’s common to get a small pimple or two on a healing tattoo, as the ointment can clog pores. The number one rule is: do not pop it. Squeezing it can damage the delicate healing skin and can even push the tattoo ink out, leaving a blank spot in your design. Just leave it alone. Continue to gently wash the area as usual. The pimple will typically resolve on its own in a few days without affecting the final result of your tattoo. Patience is your best friend.
The Best Skincare for Older, Faded Tattoos
Reviving Your Ink from the Brink
I have a 15-year-old tattoo on my ankle that had become a blurry, grayish mess. To bring it back to life, I started a two-step revival plan. First, exfoliation. I use a body lotion with glycolic acid on my legs a few times a week. This removes the dull layer of dead skin that’s obscuring the ink. Second, intense hydration. A well-moisturized tattoo always looks darker and more vibrant. This combination of exfoliating and moisturizing has made my old, sad tattoo look significantly sharper and clearer.
I Got a “Tattoo Touch-Up.” Here’s How the Healing Was Different
Round Two with the Tattoo Needle
After ten years, the black linework on one of my tattoos had faded slightly. I went back to my artist for a touch-up. The process was much faster than the original tattoo. The healing was also different. Because the artist was only going over existing lines and not tattooing on virgin skin, I found that the healing process was much quicker and less intense. It was less red and swollen, and the peeling phase was much shorter. It felt more like healing a minor scratch than a brand new tattoo.
The Best Body Lotions for Maintaining a Full Sleeve or Back Piece
Keeping Your Biggest Canvases Hydrated
Maintaining a large-scale tattoo like a full sleeve or a back piece requires a commitment to moisturizing. The best lotions for the job are ones that are effective, affordable, and easy to spread. I look for big pump-bottles of fragrance-free lotion from brands like Lubriderm, Cetaphil, or CeraVe. They contain great, no-frills hydrating ingredients, and the pump makes it easy to dispense a large amount to cover a big area. A consistent, daily moisturizing routine is the key to keeping a large tattoo looking vibrant.
How to Protect Your New Tattoo at the Gym
Keeping Your Healing Ink Safe from Sweat and Bacteria
My artist told me to avoid the gym for the first week after getting a new tattoo. After that, I needed to be careful. The gym is a sweaty, bacteria-filled environment. To protect my healing tattoo, I would wear loose-fitting clothing over the area to prevent rubbing. After my workout, I would go straight home and gently wash the tattoo with my antibacterial soap to remove any sweat and germs. It’s about keeping the area clean, dry, and free from friction while it’s still in the delicate healing phase.
The Best Soaps and Cleansers for Sensitive, Healing Skin
Your Body Wash is Probably Too Harsh
When you have a new tattoo, your regular, scented body wash is not your friend. The fragrances and harsh detergents can irritate your healing skin. The best choice is the most boring one. I always use a gentle, fragrance-free, antibacterial liquid soap. A classic like Dial Gold in the pump bottle is perfect. It’s affordable, effective at preventing infection, and free of any irritating perfumes or dyes that could disrupt the healing process.
My Journey Healing a Tattoo on a Difficult Spot (Elbow, Foot, Hand)
The Extra Care Required for High-Motion Areas
I got a tattoo on my elbow, and the healing was a challenge. Every time I bent my arm, the skin would stretch and pull. Tattoos on high-motion areas like elbows, knees, feet, and hands are notoriously difficult to heal. They are more prone to scabbing and ink loss. I learned that I had to be extra diligent. I kept the area constantly but lightly moisturized to keep the skin flexible. I also had to consciously limit my movement for the first week. It required more patience, but it healed beautifully.
The Surprising Link Between Your Hydration Levels and Your Tattoo’s Appearance
Your Ink Looks Better When You’re Not Thirsty
I noticed that on days when I was dehydrated, my tattoos looked dull and the skin looked almost crepey. When I was well-hydrated, my ink looked darker and more vibrant. It makes sense: your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it’s one of the first places to show signs of dehydration. Plump, hydrated skin cells will make the ink underneath look clearer and more defined. The easiest way to keep your tattoos looking their best is to simply drink enough water.
The Best Anti-Itch Creams That Are Safe for New Tattoos
Soothing the Maddening Itch Without Causing Damage
The itching phase of a healing tattoo can test your willpower. While you can’t use a standard hydrocortisone cream on it, there are a few safe options. A very thin layer of an occlusive ointment like Aquaphor can help to soothe the skin. My personal trick is to gently slap the itchy area instead of scratching it. It helps to momentarily confuse the nerve endings and relieve the itch without dragging my fingernails across my healing skin.
How I Protect My Tattoos During a Beach Vacation
Sun, Sand, and Saltwater are Your Ink’s Enemies
A beach vacation requires a defensive strategy for your tattoos. My go-to is a high-SPF, water-resistant mineral sunscreen stick. The stick format is easy to apply directly to the tattoos without making a sandy mess. I reapply it every single time I get out of the water. I also try to keep my tattoos covered with clothing when I’m not swimming. And I always rinse them with fresh water after being in the ocean to remove the drying salt. It’s a diligent process, but it keeps my ink protected.
My Review of Stick Sunscreens for Easy Tattoo Protection
The Most Convenient Way to Shield Your Ink
Sunscreen sticks have become my number one tool for tattoo protection. They are perfect for targeting specific areas. Instead of having to apply lotion all over my body, I can just swipe the stick directly over my tattoos. They are non-messy, easy to throw in a bag, and perfect for quick reapplication on the go. I use a mineral-based stick with a high SPF. It creates a visible, protective layer that I know is shielding my expensive art from the sun’s fading rays.
How to Care for a Face or Neck Tattoo
When Your Tattoo is Always on Display
Healing a tattoo on my neck required extra care because it’s always exposed and in a high-motion area. I had to be very careful with my clothing choices, avoiding anything with a tight collar. I also had to adjust my sleeping position to avoid rubbing it on my pillow. And since it’s on my face, sun protection isn’t just a good idea; it’s an absolute necessity every single day, year-round, to prevent fading and keep the lines looking crisp and sharp.
The Best Products for Healing a Finger or Hand Tattoo
The Constant Washing is Your Biggest Challenge
Hand and finger tattoos are notoriously difficult to heal and are prone to fading because you use and wash your hands constantly. When I healed my hand tattoo, I had to change my habits. I used a very gentle, fragrance-free soap. After every single hand wash, I would gently pat the tattoo dry and reapply a very thin layer of healing ointment. It was a constant, tedious process for two weeks, but that diligence is the only way to ensure the ink settles properly in such a high-traffic area.
The Long-Term Skincare Habits That Keep My Tattoos Crisp
My Ink is an Investment, and I Protect It
Keeping my tattoos looking great years after I get them comes down to two simple, long-term habits. The first is daily sun protection. Every morning, I apply sunscreen to all of my exposed tattoos, just as I do to my face. This is the single most important thing you can do to prevent fading. The second is daily moisturization. Keeping the skin hydrated makes the ink look darker and more vibrant. It’s a simple, daily routine that protects my lifelong investment in body art.
How to Handle an Allergic Reaction to Tattoo Ink
When Your Skin Rejects Your New Art
A week after getting a tattoo with red ink, the red parts became raised, bumpy, and intensely itchy. I was having an allergic reaction, which is more common with red inks. I immediately contacted my tattoo artist and my doctor. My doctor prescribed a topical steroid cream to calm the inflammation and an oral antihistamine to help with the itch. It took a few weeks for the reaction to fully subside. It’s a rare but serious issue, and seeking medical advice is the most important step.
The Best Lightweight Moisturizers for Summer Tattoo Care
Hydration Without the Greasy, Sticky Feeling
In the summer, a thick, heavy lotion on my tattoos can feel suffocating and sticky. I switch to a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer for the warmer months. I look for gel-cream formulas or lotions that are labeled “oil-free.” They provide enough hydration to keep my tattoos looking vibrant without feeling like a greasy mess in the heat and humidity. A good lightweight lotion keeps my ink looking its best without making me feel uncomfortable.
The Best Rich, Occlusive Balms for Winter Tattoo Care
Giving Your Ink a Winter Coat
The cold, dry air of winter can make my tattoos look dull and my skin feel scaly. This is when I bring out the heavy-duty balms. At night, after my shower, I’ll apply a thick, rich, occlusive balm to my tattoos. I look for products with ingredients like shea butter, petrolatum, or lanolin. These create a protective barrier on the skin that prevents moisture loss overnight. I wake up with my tattoos looking dark, saturated, and deeply hydrated, fully protected from the harsh winter air.
I Put Retinol on My Healed Tattoo. Here’s What Happened
An Anti-Aging Experiment on My Ink
I was using a retinol body lotion to help with skin texture and was curious what it would do to my healed tattoos. Retinol works by increasing skin cell turnover. I was worried it might “exfoliate away” the ink. After a few months of use, I can say it does not fade the tattoo. In fact, by speeding up the removal of the dull, dead skin cells on the surface, it actually made my tattoos look slightly brighter and clearer. It’s a great way to keep your tattooed skin looking fresh.
The Best Clothing to Wear Over a New, Healing Tattoo
Let Your New Ink Breathe
The clothes you wear can make or break the healing process for a new tattoo. The golden rule is to wear something loose-fitting and breathable over the area. A tight shirt or skinny jeans will rub against the tattoo, causing irritation and potentially pulling off scabs. I always opt for soft, cotton clothing that won’t chafe. For my leg tattoo, I lived in loose-fitting sweatpants for a week. It’s all about minimizing friction and allowing air to circulate around your healing skin.
How to Tell the Difference Between Normal Healing and an Infection
A Crucial Distinction for Your Health and Your Tattoo
Normal tattoo healing involves some redness, swelling, and peeling. But it’s crucial to know the signs of an infection. An infected tattoo will have excessive or worsening redness and swelling after a few days. It might feel hot to the touch, have a foul-smelling discharge (not the normal clear plasma), or you might see red streaks extending from the tattoo. If you experience any of these symptoms or have a fever, contact your doctor immediately. When in doubt, always seek professional medical advice.
The Best Skincare for People with Both Tattoos and Eczema
Navigating Two Different Skin Needs
I have eczema, so getting a tattoo required careful planning. I made sure to get the tattoo on an area of my body where I don’t typically have flare-ups. During the healing process, I used my most gentle, trusted, fragrance-free products. Now that it’s healed, I still have to be careful. When I have an eczema flare-up elsewhere, I avoid using my strong prescription steroid creams anywhere near my tattoo, as they can lighten the ink over time. It’s a balancing act of keeping both my eczema and my ink happy.
I Tried a “Tattoo-Brightening” Body Wash. Was it a Gimmick?
Can You Wash Your Way to Brighter Ink?
I saw a body wash that claimed to “brighten” and “revive” old tattoos. The ingredient list contained gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid. I used the entire bottle. Did it dramatically transform my tattoos? No. However, the gentle, regular exfoliation did help to keep the skin over my tattoos smooth and clear of dead skin cells, which did make the ink appear a little brighter over time. It’s not a miracle product, but it’s a good, exfoliating body wash that supports your tattoos’ vibrancy.
How to Minimize Scarring or “Blowouts” with Proper Aftercare
Protecting Your Investment from the Start
A “blowout,” where the ink spreads under the skin creating a blurry look, is often due to artist error, but poor aftercare can make it worse. The key to minimizing scarring and healing issues is to be gentle. Don’t pick at your scabs or peeling skin; let them fall off naturally. Don’t over-moisturize, as this can trap bacteria and suffocate the skin. And keep it out of the sun, as UV rays can cause inflammation and disrupt the healing process. Proper, gentle aftercare gives your tattoo the best possible chance to heal perfectly.
My Pre- and Post-Swimming Routine for Tattooed Skin
Protecting Your Ink from Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on tattoos, leaving them dry and faded. I have a strict routine for swim days. Before I get in the water, I apply a layer of a water-resistant sunscreen to my healed tattoos. This creates a bit of a barrier. The most important step is my post-swim routine. I rinse off in the shower immediately to get the chlorine or salt off my skin. Then, I apply a generous layer of a good moisturizer to rehydrate my skin and keep my tattoos looking vibrant.
The Best Vegan and Cruelty-Free Tattoo Aftercare Products
Healing Your Ink with Kind Ingredients
Finding vegan tattoo aftercare can be tricky, as many traditional ointments contain lanolin (from sheep’s wool) or beeswax. Thankfully, there are now many fantastic vegan and cruelty-free options. I look for products that use plant-based butters like shea or mango butter to create a protective barrier. Many vegan brands also use soothing botanical ingredients like calendula. Brands like Hustle Butter Deluxe are specifically designed for tattoos and are completely vegan, proving you don’t need animal products to heal your ink beautifully.
How to Use a Body Oil to Make Your Tattoos Shine
The “Top Coat” for Your Body Art
When I want my tattoos to look extra vibrant for a night out or for photos, my secret weapon is a good body oil. After moisturizing, I’ll apply a thin layer of a lightweight, fast-absorbing body oil over my tattoos. The oil instantly hydrates the top layer of skin and creates a beautiful, healthy sheen that makes the colors look deeper and the blacks look richer. It’s like a temporary “top coat” for your ink that gives it an incredible pop.
The Best Way to Apply Sunscreen to a Large, Intricate Tattoo
Ensuring Every Nook and Cranny is Protected
Applying sunscreen to my intricate, full-sleeve tattoo used to be a pain. I was always missing little spots. I’ve found the best method is a two-step process. First, I use a lotion-based sunscreen and apply a generous, even layer all over my arm to get my baseline coverage. Then, I go back in with a sunscreen stick. The stick allows me to be more precise and ensure I get a thick, protective layer over every single line and detailed area. This combination ensures my entire piece is fully shielded.
My “Tattooed and Employed” Skincare Guide for Visible Ink at Work
Keeping My Hand Tattoos Looking Professional
I have tattoos on my hands, which are always visible at my office job. My skincare routine for them is all about looking sharp and professional. I keep my hands and nails clean and well-groomed. I also moisturize my hand tattoos every single morning and throughout the day. Dry, flaky skin around a tattoo can look messy. Keeping the skin hydrated ensures the lines look crisp and the tattoo looks like a deliberate, well-cared-for piece of art, not a faded mistake.
How to Care for Your Scalp After a Head Tattoo
Healing a Very Sensitive, Very Public Area
Healing my head tattoo was a unique experience. Your scalp is sensitive and produces a lot of oil. For the first week, I couldn’t wash my hair normally. I would gently cleanse the tattooed area with my antibacterial soap and let the water run over it in the shower. I also had to wear a hat anytime I went outside to protect the fresh tattoo from the sun. The healing was surprisingly fast, but it required a lot of gentle care and sun-avoidance.
The Best Products for Soothing “Tattoo Flu” Symptoms
When Your New Ink Makes You Feel Sick
Some people, especially after a long tattoo session, can experience “tattoo flu”—a general feeling of fatigue, body aches, and chills. This is your immune system’s response to the trauma of the tattoo process. While skincare can’t cure it, it can help with comfort. The best things you can do are rest, drink plenty of fluids, and keep the tattoo itself clean and comfortable with a gentle soap and a thin layer of ointment. The symptoms usually only last for a day or two as your body adjusts.
My “Tattoo Anniversary” Care Routine
Celebrating My Ink with a Little Extra TLC
Every year, on the anniversary of getting one of my favorite tattoos, I do a little “care routine” for it. It’s a way to appreciate the art and keep it looking its best. I’ll start by giving the area a gentle exfoliation with a body scrub or a chemical exfoliant. Then, I’ll apply a thick, nourishing body butter or a face mask to the tattoo and let it sit for 20 minutes. It’s a fun, celebratory ritual that gives my long-term tattoos a little extra love and attention.
The Best Travel Kit for Getting a Tattoo on Vacation
Planning Ahead for Your Souvenir Ink
Getting a tattoo on vacation is a great way to commemorate a trip, but you need to be prepared for the aftercare. I always pack a small “tattoo travel kit.” It includes a travel-sized bottle of fragrance-free antibacterial soap, a small tube of Aquaphor or a similar healing ointment, and a travel-sized bottle of unscented lotion. Having these items on hand means I can start the proper aftercare process immediately, ensuring my new souvenir heals perfectly, even when I’m far from home.
How to Layer Skincare and Sunscreen on Your Tattoos
The Correct Order of Operations for Protected Ink
The order you apply your products matters. In the morning, you should apply your body lotion or moisturizer to your healed tattoos first. Allow it to fully absorb for a few minutes. Then, apply your sunscreen on top. The moisturizer hydrates the skin, and the sunscreen sits on top of that as a final, protective shield. Applying sunscreen first can prevent your moisturizer from penetrating properly. This simple layering technique ensures your tattoo is both hydrated and protected.
The One Aftercare Step Most People Forget
The Hidden Saboteur of a Perfectly Healed Tattoo
People are usually diligent about washing and moisturizing a new tattoo. But the one step they often forget is changing their bedsheets. For the first week of healing, your new tattoo can weep plasma and excess ink. Your bedsheets can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Sleeping on dirty sheets can introduce that bacteria into your healing tattoo and cause an infection. I always put fresh, clean sheets on my bed the day I get a new tattoo. It’s a simple but crucial step.
I Interviewed a Tattoo Artist About Their #1 Aftercare Tip
The Pro’s Golden Rule for Great Ink
I asked my tattoo artist, who has over 20 years of experience, for her single most important aftercare tip. She didn’t hesitate. “Less is more,” she said. “People overdo it. They slather on way too much thick ointment, which suffocates the skin and can lead to clogged pores and healing issues. You only need a very, very thin, almost invisible layer.” Her advice was a revelation. A light touch and a minimal amount of product is the professional’s secret to a perfectly healed tattoo.
The Ultimate Investment: How Good Skincare Protects Your Expensive Ink
Don’t Let a $10 Sunscreen Habit Ruin Your $1,000 Sleeve
You can spend thousands of dollars and dozens of hours getting a beautiful piece of body art. A tattoo is a serious investment. The best way to protect that investment is with a simple, affordable skincare routine. A $10 bottle of sunscreen and a $15 bottle of moisturizer, used daily, will do more to keep your tattoo looking vibrant and crisp over the years than any other fancy product. Good skincare is the insurance policy you take out on your expensive ink.