Tattoo Aftercare Tips - Taking Care of Your New Artwork

So, you finally got that tattoo you always wanted. Congratulations. No matter if you are a tattoo virgin, or a body suit owner, proper tattoo aftercare is critical. Once people get a couple under your belt, you learn what works for you, but for those that are new, here are a few tips.

Everyones skin is different, therefor tattoo aftercare is different on everyone. Its important to learn what works best for you. Chances are your artist will give you aftercare instructions, and I suggest you follow them until you learn something that works better. As each persons skin is different, each tattoo artists aftercare instructions are different.

From the time your tattoo is finished, to the time its fully healed is the most important time in making sure it stays looking great for a long time. Improper aftercare can lead to fading of color, scars forming on your piece, and other things that will affect the longevity of your artwork. Remember, what you have is an open wound, the same as a cut or scrape. It must be kept clean and free of bacteria that could lead to infection. Often times, at the conclusion of the tattoo process, the artist will bandage your new ink. Some put on a surgical type dressing, some wrap it in simple plastic sandwich wrap. Keep this bandage on over night for the first night.