Guide To Healthy Tattoo Aftercare

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Sunlight is great, just not for tattoos. After getting a tattoo, individuals should avoid direct sunlight when possible. As a result, they will need to use sunblock on the tattoo if they are out in the sun or choose to use a tanning bed. However, this should only be done after the tattoo has healed completely. The reason individuals need to keep tattoos out of the sun or use sunblock is because of the sun's ultraviolet rays. The rays will break up the pigment in the tattoo when it is absorbed. This will make the tattoo fade and the color look washed out. If an individual is diligent with using sunblock on their tattoos, however, they will enjoy a newer looking tattoo for years. If individuals do not use the sunblock, their tattoo will suffer and become faded. Other things can happen to the tattoo because of exposure to the sun. These include the tattoo changing colors, extending the healing process, or burning the area.

Avoid Scratching

Since the tattoo is basically an open wound, it will heal like one. This means, as it is healing, the tattoo may itch, and because of this, many individuals feel the urge to scratch. Doing so, however, can damage the tattoo, such as by fading it, because individuals are scratching at the color. Furthermore, scratching can leave a scar on the tattoo, diminishing the vibrancy of it and even distorting the image or wording. Individuals should avoid indirect scratching as well, meaning when they are showering or applying ointment to the tattoo, they must not press or rub too hard. It can be very tempting to rub hard and scratch the itch, but this can cause damage to the tattoo because it can remove the top layer or the skin or scab off the tattoo. Another reason to avoid scratching is the danger of introducing bacteria to the wound. This can lead to infection, which will damage the tattoo and can even lead to other health problems.