Cleaning Your Tattoo – The First Step to a Great Result

Your tattoo artist will give you instructions on when to remove the protective film or dressing and start cleaning. This is usually after 2-3 hours, but it can also be longer, depending on the type of film/dressing and your artist's recommendations. Always follow their advice for the best healing.

• Prevents infections: by keeping your tattoo clean, you remove bacteria and other dirt that can cause infections

• Promotes healing: a clean tattoo heals faster and better, with less chance of scabbing, itching, and scarring

• Reduces discomfort: removing wound fluid and ink residue helps to reduce irritation and discomfort

Are you washing your tattoo for the first time after it's been done? Then take extra time to repeat the cleaning a few times. It's important to carefully remove all blood, petroleum jelly, ink, and wound fluid. This not only promotes good healing but is also crucial if you plan to use second skin tattoo film. If the edges of your tattoo are not properly clean, the second skin tattoo film will not adhere well. That would be a shame!

In the first few days after getting your tattoo, it's important to gently clean it 2-3 times a day with lukewarm water and pH-neutral soap. As your tattoo heals, you can reduce the frequency to 1-2 times a day. Continue to clean your tattoo until it is fully healed. This is after about 2-4 weeks.

Lukewarm water is ideal for cleaning your tattoo because it helps to open the pores and remove dirt and bacteria without irritating the skin. Water that is too hot can dry out the skin and slow down healing, while water that is too cold can close the pores and make cleaning less effective.

Although infections are rare with good aftercare, it's important to be alert for possible signs:

• Increasing redness or swelling around the tattoo
• Pus or discharge from the tattoo
• Severe pain or sensitivity
• Fever or generally feeling unwell

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your GP or a dermatologist immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.

Usually 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Continue to clean and care for your tattoo until it is fully healed. This is when all scabs and flakes have disappeared.

Choosing the right soap is crucial for proper tattoo healing. Avoid harsh products such as alcohol or baby wipes, as these can dry out the skin and cause irritation. Many people use Unicura, but it is not specifically developed for the sensitive skin of a new tattoo.

Prefer a product like TattooMed Cleansing Gel, which is specially formulated to cleanse, soothe, and protect your tattoo during the healing process. It also helps to reduce redness and swelling, contributing to a faster and more comfortable recovery.

Before touching your tattoo, wash your hands thoroughly with a mild, antibacterial soap. This can be done with TattooMed Cleansing Gel. This prevents bacteria from getting into your fresh tattoo.

Imagine: your new tattoo feels fresh and calm, even after cleaning. That's exactly what the Cleansing Gel does. Its cooling formula reduces redness and inflammation, allowing your skin to recover faster and reducing itching. Say goodbye to those annoying scabs!

• Hydrates and cleanses without drying out the skin

• Reduces redness, swelling and itching

• Has an antibacterial effect

• Leaves a protective layer on the skin

• Suitable for frequent use

1. Wash hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your tattoo.
2. Wet tattoo: Gently wet your tattoo with lukewarm water. You can do this in the shower, but avoid soaking for too long and using water that is too hot.

3. Lather soap: Put a small amount of Cleansing Gel in your palm and lather it well with water.

4. Clean tattoo: Gently massage the soap over your tattoo with circular motions. Only use your hands, no sponges or washcloths.

5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the soap completely off with lukewarm water. Avoid a harsh stream of water directly on your tattoo.

6. Gently pat dry: Pat your tattoo dry with a clean, soft cloth. Do not rub, as this can cause irritation.

7. Apply aftercare: Apply a thin layer of TattooMed After Tattoo to your clean, dry tattoo.

• Repeat cleaning a few times during the first wash. This prevents ugly thick scabbing.

• Avoid strong jets of water directly on your tattoo.

• Do not use towels or paper towels to dry your tattoo, as this can leave lint.

• Do not let your tattoo dry out; apply aftercare cream regularly.

• Also read our blog about showering with a new tattoo.

Give your tattoo the best start with TattooMed Cleansing Gel and After Tattoo aftercare cream. Together, they ensure fast, comfortable healing and a tattoo you can enjoy for years.

Ready to give your tattoo the best aftercare? View our selection of high-quality tattoo aftercare products and make your tattoo shine!

Do you have any other questions about tattoo aftercare or would you like to know more about our products? Feel free to contact us!

Original publication date: 2019-12-10
Last updated on: 2024-09-16