Are you thinking about getting your first tattoo or maybe even your third? Whatever the case, I wanted to talk a little bit about tattoo care. Here at Preen.ph, we love tattoos. Jackie talked about her watercolor experience, Jacque gave tips on booking this artist in Korea, and I also shared my first time getting one. Last week, I decided to get another, so I am currently going through the aftercare steps again and wanted to list the different things I do to take care of my healing and healed tattoos.
Wash
Shop: Human Nature Fragrance-Free Cleansing Bar. Available at Rustan’s Supermarket branches.
While your tattoo is in the healing process, don’t forget to keep it clean. This is technically an open wound after all so best to keep it sanitized. For this, gently wash it with lukewarm water and mild soap. The best option is something that is fragrance-free and for sensitive skin. This one is free of irritating colorants and synthetic fillers. It is also infused with coconut oil, which will keep your tattoo moisturized.
Moisturize
Shop: Drapolene Cream. Available at Mercury Drug branches.
Speaking of keeping the tattoo moisturized, pick this up as well. Many tattoo artists will have different recommendations, but this is what mine suggested. This is actually used on babies for when they have rashes so it should be good enough for your healing skin as well. After washing your tattoo, pat it dry before applying this. It also eases any itchiness, which you are sure to experience.
Do not pick
If you have the habit of picking scabs, just stop. It’s not good for regular wounds so it isn’t the best for tattoos either. Just wait for the scabs to peel of on their own so it can reach its full potential. If you start picking when it isn’t time, the colors could lift as well, and you don’t want that.
SPF
Just because your tattoo is completely healed, doesn’t mean you should leave it alone now. The best way to keep it looking fresh is by keeping it away from direct sunlight. If you can’t do that, don’t forget to apply sunscreen with high SPF. The sunlight speeds up the fading process so don’t forget this step if you want to avoid touch-ups.
Art by Marian Hukom
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