Taking care with a new tattoo can prevent health problems and also ensure that the quality of the image is protected. Here's what you need to do:

When you are finally done getting a permanent tattoo the worst part is over but now it is time for your part of the work. These instructions will give you the right care for your new tattoo and in the long run it will protect the colors.

  • Make sure to keep the bandage on the tattoo for at least two hours after completion. If your tattoo artist tells you longer then do so.After the time period take the bandage off slowly and carefully and dispose of it

  • Don’t put another band aid on because you want the tattoo to get fresh air to start the healing process.Use some antibiotic soap to wash the tattoo with your hand

  • Pat the tattoo dry with a paper towel and make sure not to rub it at all



  • Apply VERY thin coats of A&D Ointment (not regular petroleum jelly) and work well into the skin. (If you can see the ointment on your skin, you're using too much and it could pull color out of your skin.)  The ointment can also be water based but you want to avoid any ointment that has zinc in it
  • Keep applying the ointment to the tattoo for the next couple of days


  • After you feel the wounded skin has healed you want to switch to plain skin lotion that has no dye, Vitamin E, aloe, alcohol, perfume or lanolin
  • Continue to apply the lotion like you did with the ointment, directly to the tattooed skin.  The more you lotion the more life you will give to your tattoo
  • REMEMBER YOU WANT TO KEEP THE SKIN EXPOSED TO THE AIR AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE


*Don't soak the tattoo in water or let the shower pound directly on it. Avoid the sun, sea and swimming pools until the tattoo is fully healed

*Don't pick any scabs that may form, it will fall off as it heals, usually in one to three weeks. It is normal

*Use ice packs if swelling or redness occurs. Call your doctor if you have the slightest signs of infection

As long as you follow the steps on how to care for a new tattoo, you should have no health problems to deal with.  Your tattoo will last a lifetime and the maintenance on it is over with.  In the future you may want someone to enhance the colors but for now sit back, relax, take in the complements, and SHOW IT OFF!