Niki
Tattoos are seen as an artistic expression of your identity. So many of our favorite celebs have inked their skin in this ancient art form. We recently posted this handy guide to help you- our readers out before you get your first tattoo so now we’ve created this guide with everything you need to know about the aftercare of your new inkling.
Your artist knows best.
If you have been inked by a reputable artist, then they will tell you every step and every bit of info possible about caring for your new piece of art. Don’t question their estimated healing times or how many times you should apply lotion because they have studied hard to have their license and have been practicing their craft for years. They can do up to 8 tattoos a day, 5 days a week if not more, so they do know exactly what they’re speaking about. Don’t feel daft if you have a question or need clarification. Your artist would rather answer every question possible then you feel unsure.
Don’t be silly, keep it covered.
When leaving the tattoo studio, your tatt will be wrapped up like a sandwich in clingfilm. In simple terms, your new ink is a very pretty open. The film put over you is to protect yourself from any bacteria which could cause a nasty infection. The recommended time to keep it covered for is 4 – 6 hours, but again just listen to your tattoo artists advice.
Clean on me.
Once you’ve kept your new tattoo covered for the allocated amount of time, take the film off and give it a little gentle wash. Use your usual hand wash or something similar and gentle. This is just going to wash away and blood and clean the surface. We’ll get on to the cleaning routine shortly.
Soothe and protect
One thing you’re going to need to do is to apply a skin healing moisturizer. This is going to not only help heal the tat, but it’s also going to help it look healthy and non-dry and scabby. We’ve searched far and wide for the best tattoo cream and tried everything from £90 facial moisturizers to baby nappy creams, by far the best we’ve found and the easiest to use is the Electric Ink Daily Skin Moisturiser. The cream has been developed by tattoo specialists so not only does it care for your skin and protect it but it also adds the vibrancy back into the inkling. Buy it here.
Mitts off.
Like a big scab on your knee; your ink will dry and get very itchy. As tempting as it may be, avoid the urge to scratch it. Scratching can not only infect the tattoo but you may take the scabbing off and some of the ink will fall out instead of healing nicely. You don’t want a patchy tat.
Self-preservation.
Washing, hydrating and nourishing your new tattoo is super important. To maintain that fresh and vibrant look it’s all about keeping up a healthy skin routine, just like you do for your face. There are many products on the market which may help, but we are obsessed with the products from Electric Ink. The Vibrancy serum is made to give you an easy burst of hydration to the tat whilst improving the appearance and well… vibrancy. We’ve also fallen in love with their exfoliating body wash. This product can be used all over, and it smells AMAZING. Not only will this brighten your tattoo but with the blend of Amino Acids really give you the softest skin around.
Patience is a virtue.
There will be recovery time where your tattoo may look a bit red or scabby or inflamed. Don’t be alarmed as this is usually normal. Like anything give your body time to heal, but if you are worried contact your GP or your tattoo artist.
Share it!
Tattoos are an artform. So share it. Make sure you post it anywhere and everywhere. You may inspire someone you love’s next inkling or you could help promote your artist. You are a walking talking art canvas which needs to be displayed. So get Instagramming.
For more information on the Electric Ink products mentioned head to the brands’ website. Or to buy any of the range, ALLBeauty currently have some amazing offers on, including a brilliant saving on the complete Electric Ink gift set.
Make sure you show us all your tattoo’s by sharing them with us on Instagram.
