More and more people are treating a tattoo as a personal story on the skin. The first few days after the procedure determine what that story will look like in the future. It's not just about aesthetics. It's also about health and comfort.
At MichalskiArt, we pay a lot of attention to aftercare, because it is what fixes the colours and sharpness of the lines. Below you will find simple, proven tips that are easy to implement on a daily basis.
How to properly clean a fresh tattoo after treatment?
Wash your hands first, remove the dressing as directed, wash with lukewarm water and mild soap and dry without rubbing.
A fresh tattoo is a controlled wound, so cleanliness is key. Wash your hands thoroughly. Remove the bandage gently, preferably under a stream of lukewarm water. Rinse the skin with water and use a mild, unscented soap. Do not scrub. Dry with a paper towel, touching lightly. If the artist has applied a film-type dressing, follow their instructions. It is usually removed under warm water when it is time to change.
How often to wash a new tattoo and what water to use?
Wash several times a day with lukewarm water, briefly and gently.
Maintain regularity in the first few days, but don't overdo it. Use lukewarm water. Hot can aggravate bleeding and irritation, and very cold slows healing. Finish each wash with a short drying with clean paper. Avoid long soaks in the bath. A short shower is safer.
Which ointments and creams to use and which to avoid?
Choose light, fragrance-free creams for sensitive skin and apply a thin layer.
The aim is to moisturise, not 'flood' the skin. Hypoallergenic products without fragrances or dyes work well. Apply thinly to allow the skin to breathe. Avoid greasy, heavily occlusive ointments, products with alcohol, perfumes and antibiotic ointments without a clear recommendation. When skin is very dry, increase the frequency of light moisturising, not the thickness of the layer.
What to do when redness or discharge appears?
The information in this section is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice; if in doubt, consult your doctor.
Mild erythema and a translucent discharge at the start are typical, take care then of hygiene and thin moisturisation.
In the first few days, the skin may feel warm, slightly swollen and moist from the plasma. This is a natural reaction. Maintain gentle washing, thorough drying and a thin layer of cream. If the discharge thickens, changes colour or odour, or the redness spreads, keep creaming to a minimum and observe the skin's reaction. First contact tattoo artist on care; if there are symptoms suggestive of infection - fever, purulent discharge, diffuse redness or increasing pain - see a doctor immediately.
When to contact a tattoo artist or doctor?
With the tattooist when there are nursing concerns, with the doctor when there are symptoms of infection or a severe reaction.
Refer to a tattoo artist if you are unsure or unsure how often to wash, what to lubricate with, how long to wear a bandage or how to react to scabs. Medical attention is indicated when there is increasing pain, fever, purulent discharge, spreading redness, severe swelling, blistering, rash or rapid allergic reaction. If the symptoms do not diminish after a few days, this is also a signal for consultation.
Can you exercise, swim or shower with a tattoo?
Gentle showers yes, intensive training and swimming better postponed until healed.
Take a short shower and in lukewarm water. Do not direct the strong spray directly at the tattoo. Swimming in a pool, lake or sea increases the risk of irritation and infection. Also avoid saunas and hot tubs. Exercise generates sweat and friction. For the first few days, choose lighter activity or take a break, especially if the tattoo is in an area prone to stretching.
How do you protect your tattoo from the sun and rubbing clothes?
Avoid the sun and wear airy, soft clothing that covers the tattoo.
UV radiation harms the pigments and irritates fresh skin. During the healing phase, it is best to keep the tattoo in the shade. Once healed, use a high UV sunscreen and renew it throughout the day. Choose clothing that is loose and smooth and made from natural fabrics. Avoid tight items that can stick to the skin and break off fresh scabs.
What can you do today to make tattoo healing go better?
Ensure you have a skincare kit and a daily plan that supports recovery.
- Prepare a mild, unscented soap, clean paper towels and a light cream for sensitive skin.
- Plan short showers and a break from swimming and intense workouts.
- Choose loose, soft clothes that won't rub your skin.
- Drink water and get enough sleep. The body heals better when it is hydrated and rested.
- Do not scrape off scabs or scratch itchy skin.
- Write down your questions for your tattoo artist to discuss care tailored to your project.
Good habits from day one translate into nice healing and lasting results. Calmness, hygiene and consistency is the simplest plan that works. If in doubt, benefit from the expertise of specialists. At MichalskiArt, we rely on individual guidance because every project and skin heals a little differently.
Make an appointment for a consultation to receive individual care tips!
