Pounded Ink

85 responses so far ↓

• 1 Brittany // Feb 5, 2008 at 6:11 am

  Having recently acquired my first tattoo, I’ve spent the last several weeks researching and reading and talking to artists, tattooed people, etc. all with the intention of having the best possible tattooing and healing experience.

  The advice given here to keep a new tattoo covered with plastic cling wrap runs counter to everything else I have read or been told by my and other tattoo artists. Wounds (and as far as your body is concerned, your new tattoo is a wound) need oxygen to heal and keep from becoming infected. Moisture is important too, but plastic wrap doesn’t allow for air flow to the damaged skin.

  Meaning no disrespect to the well-meaning person who wrote this tattoo aftercare advice… but to people looking for information about healing tattoos, I’m encouraging you to keep searching and reading and get other opinions.

• 2 Curt // Feb 6, 2008 at 7:33 pm

  Brittany I understand that skin needs air, but if you follow my advise and use a petroleum based antiseptic and change your bandage several times a day this will avoid infection.

  Everyone is entitled to an opinion and this method has worked best for me.

• 3 Matt // Apr 17, 2008 at 12:08 pm

  Ivve just had my first tattoo on my back. Ive researched many ways of helping it to heal and found that the best way for mine to heal was to apply bapanthen cream and cling film for at least 3 days after the tattoo has been done.
  After these few days warm quick showers clean the tat then just applying the cream reduces healing time.

• 4 Amaris // May 5, 2008 at 7:35 pm

  I just got my second tattoo a little over a week ago, located right next to my belly button- -it’s a medium sized tattoo. The artist covered it with cling-wrap and instructed me to take it off and wash after 5 hours. Immediatly after taking it off- -some burning and discomfort occured- -a light-bulb in my head went off to, clean it, apply more A&D and put some fresh plactic wrap on it……..I do have to say, sticking to that regimen for the first 4 days or so REALLY helped…..kept my clothes from rubbing it and helped me sleep more comfortably, something about it was soothing…where as, my 1st tattoo, took almost 2 weeks to get to the stage of healing as this one……so, to the plastic wrap suggestion, I highly reccommend it…..this certainly will not be my last tattoo, and I will definately be using cling wrap the next time around as well…

• 5 kiera // Jul 29, 2008 at 9:14 am

  Hey. I got my first tattoo recently. Any good tattoo studio will tell you what to do after. I got told to wear cling film for the first 2 days, washing and changing it 3-4 times a day. Then apply bepanthon cream twice daily until healed.I’m on my 2nd day now and it it starting to scab already. It’s a fresh wound so it needs to be covered for at least 2 days, it’s not like a normal cut!

• 6 Mecca // Jul 30, 2008 at 12:24 am

  I must my Admit i have a friend who does tattoo’s and he at first when he did the my tattoo’s was brand new so it took a little longer but it came out nice still but now this time he used plastic wrap and it most def worked better and is alot comfortable i thought he was weird for doing it but it was smart move its good

• 7 antoinette // Aug 3, 2008 at 6:44 pm

  this is my first time ever having a tattoo and no one had told me how long it takes to heal and i had to wait 24 hours to remove the bandage and wash it with mild soap and pat dry and i had to apply the a&d ointment on my tattoo lightly 3or 4 times a day but no one told me how long it takes or anything

• 8 anon // Sep 22, 2008 at 2:53 pm

  Are you kidding??? Putting any kind of petroleum based product on your new tattoo is the worst thing you could do. Petroleum based products , such as Vaseline, prevent the tattoo from breathing which is exactly what it needs to do in order to heal. Also, not only does the plastic wrap create a breeding ground fro bacteria, the bandage should be left on for no longer than the first night you sleep with your tattoo, at the very most. The only thing that should ever touch your tattoo is plain fragrance-free lotion.

• 9 Curt // Sep 23, 2008 at 10:17 am

  anon,

  I have addressed this issue in another post. To each his own.

• 10 Joe // Oct 2, 2008 at 8:35 pm

  I just got my first tattoo on Saturday. My artist told me to keep the bandage on for the first couple hours but to then take it off and rub some antibacterial ointment on it. After that night to just rub lotion on it when I wake up and when I go to bed. My tattoo scabbed over the second night and most of the scab has fallen off since then. The tattoo looks great underneath and my skin is already back to smooth.

• 11 Savannah // Oct 5, 2008 at 12:50 pm

  I recenlty got my first tattoo on the back of my neck and the tattoo artist said to leave my hair up for 2 weeks. However Ive been sleeping with my tattoo exposed to my sheets. Im not sure if I should let my hair down or not. Any advise???

• 12 Curt // Oct 7, 2008 at 7:44 am

  Savannah,

  As long as you keep your new tattoo clean and moist you shouldn’t have a problem with your hair. Just be sure that your hair does not get sucked into any scabs which could breed infection and you should be fine.

• 13 shannon // Oct 11, 2008 at 8:26 pm

  i just got my tattoo today… artist told me to keep the wrap on for 8 hours then remove it, but im hearing from others to use wrap for two-three days..frustrating to get so many different answers!

• 14 kels // Oct 29, 2008 at 9:00 am

  i recently got my second and third tattoo. i have one on each of my wrists. i kept putting A and D on it and it soon became red and started to hurt. i went to a tattoo shop and asked what this was and what to do. they said becuase i was not still putting A and D on it after 5 days of getting it i was not allowing the tattoo to get air. they told me to shop putting A and D on it and keep it uncovered. this way it would have time to scab. so i say after the first 3 days discontinue use of any ointment and let the air get at it.

• 15 Dave // Oct 30, 2008 at 6:21 pm

  My advice ive got my 3rd tattoo today and the advice was ALL the same leave the cling film on for two hours after tattoo is finished…remove an wash with warm soapy water and apply “after care cream/gel” then until the scab falls off naturally wash an apply cream every morning and evening….an what ever you do DO NOT PICK SCAB……………….this advice has made my 2 tattoos that have fully healed near perfect.

• 16 KK // Nov 9, 2008 at 11:42 pm

  I got my first tattoo done on Saturday night. The artist told me to leave the wrap on for 2-5 hours. After he said to clean it with a mild soap and put A&D on it. He told me to put A&D on it 3 times a day for 3 days. After that, he said put lotion on it everyday for another 10 days or so. He said to keep it VERY clean for the next two weeks.

• 17 Ashley Cox // Nov 16, 2008 at 3:35 pm

  See, your only giving you’re opinion on what people should do while healing a new tattoo. But what they really need is the correct facts, which you have surely not given them.

  As stated above, in multiple comments you DO NOT put petroleum based products on a tattoo, or leave the cling wrap on a healing tattoo.

  Petroleum products keep the healing skin from breathing, which creates a longer healing time.

  Plastic Wrap keeps air out so it can’t breath and harbors moisture, thus making a perfect breading ground for bacteria and make you more prone to infections.

  Tattoos are to weap fluids, it means its trying to heal. You are to take the Cling Wrap off 2-6 hours after it is first covered. You then wash it with dye and fragrance free dial(or other soap), do not rub while drying off, pat dry. Let the remaining water left in the skin naturally dry. Wait 2 days(sure its gonna be itchy, itchy means healing) then apply any fragrance/dye free lotion 2-3 times a day.

• 18 kirksty // Dec 5, 2008 at 6:22 am

  I have just had a large tattoo done on my lower back and i was told to leave the wrap on for 2 hours then use Bepanthen (Nappy rash cream) and it has been brilliant, it has been 4 days and my tattoo is healing nicely no scabs and no pain!! The only problem is the mess but by wearing my top folded up I am avoiding the mess and letting air get to my lovely dragon!!

• 19 Julia // Dec 12, 2008 at 8:35 am

  I just got my first tattoo 5 days ago and it is a medium size one on my hip. Initially, I kept a gauze like padding on for the first 2 days whilst frequently applying petroleum jelly and changing the padding. Now, the tattoo is peeling and the colour underneath is great. The itching is not bad at all and there is no pain. I cant believe how quickly it is healing. Maybe the trick is not wetting it at all. I would definitely follow the same process again for future tattoos!

• 20 rex // Jan 14, 2009 at 7:58 pm

  i may be late on this but can some one give me advice. im on my third week and my tattoo is still peeling a little bit. should i or should i not apply petroleum jelly still? my tattoo is soft now but should i still be treating it?

• 21 tisi // Jan 14, 2009 at 8:52 pm

  :) i had my tattoo done saturday … now thursday :) … i hav kept clingfilm on with the tat cream on since i had it done… can i take the clingfilm off permantly? and just rub cream on ? or should i continue use?
  also i ran outta the cream they supplied do i brought E45 cream , is this ok for my tat or will it effect colour? sorry so many q’s lol :)
  one more thing… my tat seems to have faded and is now slightly darker? is this normal , will it brighten up at all?

• 22 Curt // Jan 15, 2009 at 12:15 am

  rex,

  Three weeks should be more then enough time for a tattoo to start healing. You are safe to stop all care procedures but keeping the skin moist won’t hurt. Peeling is a natural part of healing. Just don’t pick at the tattoo.

• 23 Curt // Jan 15, 2009 at 9:11 am

  tisi,

  Four days should suffice to now remove the cling film permanently. Continue to keep your tattoo moist for a few more days using a petroleum based lube like bacatracin.

  Tattoos may appear faded when healing. This is due to a layer of dead skin above the tattoo. It is going to take another 3 weeks until your real tattoo luster will be visible. Will your tattoo lighten? It’s hard to tell without pictures.

  My advice? Hurry up and wait!

• 24 danny // Jan 19, 2009 at 7:42 pm

  I need to know please .. what does fragrance do to your tattoo?

• 25 Curt // Jan 20, 2009 at 10:52 am

  danny,

  ingredients that cause a fragrance are not sterile and can cause improper healing or fading of tattoo ink.

• 26 Dennis B. // Jan 21, 2009 at 10:49 am

  I have two tattoos–got them both in 2005. They still look great and have not faded…1 w/ color, 1 w/o. Got them done at the same place and the procedure I was told was:

  Keep the cling wrap on for a few hours (3-5) then wash it with warm water and pat (PAT!) dry. I used Aquaphor cream–water based! Apply lightly and through the day a few times. It is not anti-bacterial but if you clean it 3-4 times a day, you should be good. I didn’t have to worry about my clothes because of placement (upper arm and lower leg) and because my work allowed me to walk around with my sleeve rolled up and shorts were ok where I worked.

• 27 Zach // Jan 28, 2009 at 8:21 am

  Definately would only wrap it for a couple hours, your skin needs to breathe in order to heal, in my preference as a tattoo artist and tattoo addict and having many parts of my body healing at once. Use A&D ointment for the first 3 days about 3 or 4 times a day use small amounts and massage in skin never glob it on, a small amounts spreads, after 3 days use Curel Ultra Healing Lotion, only use this lotion trust me on this one, and maybe a small amount of a&d once a day by day 3 you should have ink flaking do not peel it just let it go by itself keep applying lotion and your tattoo should heal n 5 days with no scabbing unless you have a scratch artist with a poorly tuned machine and a 10 flat lol

• 28 Bree // Feb 4, 2009 at 5:22 pm

  I’m just about to go get my first tattoo – I’m a little bit nervous. I’ve been thinking about it for over a year now and I’m sure it’s exactly what I want, and I’m getting it on my hip. My question is what should I do to keep my pants from rubbing at it and irritating it? Is cling wrap a good idea for this place?

• 29 Curt // Feb 5, 2009 at 4:35 pm

  Bree,

  Cling wrap is always a good idea to help protect the tattoo for the first few days. I would also recommend soft loose fitting pants.

  The more diligent you are with the care of your new tattoo the better the final outcome will be.

• 30 Carl // Feb 8, 2009 at 6:41 am

  I have been reading everything people have said on here. Here are my points on looking after a tattoo but you dont have to listen to me as i have only had 10 done now. My last one yesterday.

  Keep covered for up to 3 hours after having tattoo done. Then wash with mild soap and warm water, dont rub just pat. To dry it, get a clean cloth and pat dry. But not to heavy. Let the excess water dry naturally. Then use a water based cream. I use savlon personally. I wash it atleast twice a day but put the savlon on it every 4 hours. NEVER PICK A SCAB, RUB YOUR TATTOO OR COVER IT UP. If you cover it up your skin sweats causing a bacteria build up on your tattoo. This is when your prone to get an infection. Those who above have said they have covered there’s up are just dam lucky they never got infected. My best advice is speak to your DOCTOR if you want proper guidance.

• 31 Adrienne // Feb 8, 2009 at 4:50 pm

  I just got my first tattoo on my shoulder on Thursday, the 5th, and my tattoo artist told me all about the scabbing and not picking and no soaking, etc. However I was NEVER told to put cling wrap on it by anyone who has ever gotten or given a tat. But he gave me a special antibacterial/antimicrobial/antifungal cream made for tattoos that acts as the soap and lotion all in one. It’s called H2Ocean and I put that on atleast 3 times a day and so far I have had no problems with my tat. It’s only been 3 days and it’s already peeling and it has some color in it. It only hurts, because of the placement, when I move around and stretch the skin. So i would recommend this cream to everyone. My tattoo still looks great and I can’t complain one bit.

• 32 sami // Feb 14, 2009 at 4:10 am

  Wow I’ve read all the comments on here an all i have to say is suck it up people!

  I just got my 2nd tattoo my first an my leg i wrapped it for a day then put some tattoo goo for the next two weeks an i slowed my healing down!

  The next tattoo i didn’t wrap an i put tattoo goo for the first 4 days then lotion an it healed that week if u baby it it takes longer all my friends just baby it for the first 4 days then lotion it an they have awesome tattoos an mine still turned out amazing!!!!

  So i dont know about all that babying cause it really slowed my first tattoo down!!!

• 33 Pen-is smoker // Feb 17, 2009 at 2:00 am

  use petrol on tattoo 9 times a day. and soak it at night in a tank of petrol for 1 hour. Sheebee Rite mate

• 34 mike A // Feb 25, 2009 at 9:53 pm

  Umm, I need some help. I’m thinking about getting my 1st tattoo, and I’m kinda nervous.. and from what I’ve heard you keep it wrapped for the 1st few hours.. then wash then put a lotion or cream on [non-fragrance] then re-wrap it and do this the 1st few days. Then you take off the wrap completely and just do the cream and wash… but is this right??? If not someone please help me….I would really appreciate it..

• 35 Lynz // Feb 27, 2009 at 4:28 pm

  i have had 4 good sized tattoos so far, & my artist told me to keep it wrapped for the first couple hours. then follow the directions on the tattoo goo for a week, then lotion after that so my skin doesn’t dry out. and NEVER soak it. my tattoos are very detailed and they look bad ass. =]

• 36 KIRSTEN // Mar 1, 2009 at 11:04 pm

  i just got my first tatoo about a week ago its near my hip and its a star but how long does it take to heal it hasnt scabbed really or anything and it doesnt feel weird or hurt so i dont know how to know when its done healing u keep putting a & d because imnot sure

• 37 Jess // Mar 2, 2009 at 9:16 am

  Hey everyone. I am on tattoo number 13, and let me say 13 Large tattoos. I have tried pretty much all of the above mentioed ways of healing and there is no sure fired going to work for everyone way to heal a tattoo. It’s almost damn near impossible on your first or second tattoo to heal it perfect, almost everyone has to get a touch up at some point, hence why almost every tattoo shop offers the first touch up for free. For the first day or two test out the waters, see if a fragrance free lotion makes your tattoo red or burn, try wrapping it in cling wrap for a day then leaving it exposed for a day see which one feels more comfortable for you. I’ve had some tattoos scab and heal in a week and i’ve had some take two or three before the skin was back to smooth. Don’t pick at them, thats the best advice, let your body do what it has to do to heal itself. Your climate also has alot to do with how your tattoo will heal, obviously don’t go get a sunburn, don’t go into a pool or a jacuzzi use some common sense it’s not fucking rocket science.

• 38 Nikki // Mar 3, 2009 at 11:46 pm

  I got my first tattoo on my wrist about 4 days ago. I dont have an issue with it rubbing against my clothing and causing discomfort and my artist simply wrapped in a loose fitting paper bandange and sent me on my way after giving me instructions. I bought original Curel body lotion and I apply it every time I wash my hands as well as through out the day, so about 10 or 15 times a day all together. My tattoo is now peeling but is not scabbing, its perfectly hydrated and it is settling great with little to no discomfort. My advice is clean with a liquid soft soap to keep it clean, gently pat dry with a paper towel, and apply lotion afterwards, especially if you’re out and about a lot! ^_^ If the plastic wrap works, all the more power to you, but to me its just fairly awkward and unecessary.

• 39 nichole // Mar 8, 2009 at 3:43 pm

  I got a tattoo (first one) a couple of days ago and I was wondering how long it takes for the ink to completely stop coming off. i keep it covered with sterile gauze to go workout and when i got to bed so that my clothes don’t rub on it. when i took the gauze off today i noticed there was still some ink that came off

• 40 mike // Mar 17, 2009 at 12:39 am

  here is the best advice for taking care of a brand new tat i have 15 and have worked in three different shops….. cling wrap is not good for the tat…. it needs to breathe……… so heres what you do

  1. wash your tattoo 2-4 times a day

  2. you gunna apply this stuff called aquaphor to it 3-5 times a day…. you can find aquaphor at any drug store its in the lotion section

  3.after your peel layer starts …. start using a non scented lotion

  4. no swimming or uv exposure for 3 weeks

  5. take good care of your ink……

• 41 Curt // Mar 17, 2009 at 3:03 pm

  nichole,

  Ink will bleed out for the first several days although it may appear ink is coming off for a week or more, it is actually just dead skin with ink still embedded in it, or scabs falling off.

  Please don’t use gauze to cover a tattoo, if it dries and scabs you will seriously damage your tattoo when you remove the gauze. I suggest using plastic cling wrap instead.

  mike,

  I appreciate your comments as I am heavily tattooed as well. I stick by my tattoo healing procedure, It’s never failed me.

  Your tattoo care advise is solid as well, to each his own.

• 42 Mary // Mar 26, 2009 at 1:17 pm

  I have been going to the same place and same guy for 4 years now and he told me keep the wrap on for about 2 hours and then take it off. He never told me to put more on. Let it breathe and put dial soap after the 2 hours and then morning/night for the next few days. Then apply Lubriderm lotion morning/night for like the rest of the healing time. My tattoo’s have healed great other than the fact I’m a perfectionist and have had all my tatt’s touched up to make sure all of the ink spots are where they should be. I was never told to use any type of jelly or moisturizer until the 4th day I believe but I don’t know to each their own I suppose!

• 43 Evan // Apr 10, 2009 at 1:22 am

  I got my first tattoo last tuesday, it’s been nine days now and the only difference made so far is a more of a grey color shading and a little skin peeling..
  Are scabs going to appear no matter what?

  I’ve been putting lubriderm on maybe twice-three times a day, and showering regularly ..
  Should i stop putting lotion on and let the tattoo breathe until it starts to scab so it will finally heal 100%?

• 44 Curt // Apr 10, 2009 at 8:15 am

  Evan,

  It’s safe to say, if it has been 9 days and you don’t have any scabs then you won’t be getting any. I would continue to keep the tattoo lubed which will make sure the peeling completes without complication. Don’t peel that dead skin off, let it fall off naturally.

  I sat for a four hour tattoo session the same day you got your tattoo (weird huh?) and I have zero scabs as well and peeling is almost complete.

  Your tattoo will be completely healed very shortly. It sounds like you took good care of your new ink.

• 45 Ray // May 5, 2009 at 9:52 pm

  Wow the advice provided is really stupid. The plastic cling wrap can be removed with the first couple of hours, never leave it on any longer. If you left it on for 2 weeks I think you have some kind of infection. Use bacitracin or or a&d ointment since they are really the best for the healing process. Trust I have 8 tattoos and they have al healed perfectly fine the way I do it.

• 46 Anon // May 24, 2009 at 1:12 am

  I have several large tattoos myself (I stopped counting how many but I’m around atleast 80 hours of work), and I’ve taken care of my tattoo’s the same way from the beginning and never had a problem with an infection until my last tattoo. Although I have my speculation as to how it got infected, the artist disagreed with me. (I dont believe they changed their gloves when we took a break and they were touching things on their desk). Make sure you’re paying attention to what your artist is doing, make sure they take off their gloves when they answer the phone, do not allow them to wipe off their face etc without changing them. Treat them the same as you would your dr, making sure they wash their hands and use clean gloves everytime.

• 47 Kayleigh // Jun 2, 2009 at 5:00 am

  i had my first tattoo yesterday on my right wrist, i kept the cling film on for 3 to 5 hours after and was told to wash it regularly and put bepathen on it regularly, is it ok to leave the cling film off now? xxx

• 48 Curt // Jun 2, 2009 at 11:28 am

  Kayleigh,

  I describe in detail in this article how to heal a tattoo. Whatever you decide to do, you must keep your new tattoo moist.

• 49 Lizz // Jun 3, 2009 at 1:07 am

  So I have 32 tattoos so far and I have found that the best thing to do is put a&d on after bathing in the morning and again about 6hrs later and be sure and clean it before you ever put any ointment on it…I have found wrap seems to take a lot of the color out because it seems to keep it to moist but hey everyones skin is different

• 50 Elizabeth // Jun 4, 2009 at 1:53 pm

  I was just tattoed this past Saturday in Hell City, a fairly large peice on my hip and round my ribs. I took the cling wrap off after 6 hrs, washed with anti bacterial unscented soap, patted dry, and then ever since just applied H2Ocean every few hours. It’s starting to peel and scab slightly on the heavier coloured parts, itching a bit but that’s a good thing! Means it’s healing! I wouldn’t personally re apply cling wrap because it traps your skin, but that is just me. I’ve found the absolute best thing I’ve done for my tattoos is to take the few days after getting it done off work, and let them air out completely (ie lying around nekkid at home, lol), with the H2Ocean every few hours. Everyone is different though, only do what you feel is working for you, and if you’re really not sure call your artist back!

• 51 Jess // Jun 14, 2009 at 12:16 pm

  I have had my tat for three weeks now and it has stopped pealing and it didn’t scab at all.

  My tat artist instructed me to take the plastic wrap off after 3 hours and then to apply A&D ointment(small amount-little goes a long way!) for 2-3 days and to wash it with dial soap(no fragrance) and after that to keep it moist by applying loation 2-3 times a day.

  It is no longer pealing but I’m unsure if it is completely healed or not and if it is ok if I can shave over the tat yet? It is on the outer side of my lower leg and it goes from above my ankle to a couple of inches below my knee.

  So when do you think I will be able to shave over it?

• 52 Curt // Jun 15, 2009 at 6:55 am

  Jess,

  3 weeks should be enough time that it will be OK to shave. I shaved my armpit after only about 2 weeks.

  As long as you don’t have any scabs or peeling it should be fine to shave.

• 53 Camille // Jun 25, 2009 at 9:01 am

  I just got my first tattoo yesterday and I am so happy with it. I do have a simple question though:

  The awesome artist told me to keep my band-aid on for 2-5 hours and then wash it with Dial soap and apply a thin layer of A+D to it (which I did). I woke up this morning and it was dry, so I applied another thin layer. If I rub the tattoo with my finger, however, little flakes of color smooth away from the tattoo. Is this normal? It’s not enough to truly worry me but then again, it’s a little bit scary since I’ve never had one before. Should I just refrain from touching it?

• 54 Curt // Jun 26, 2009 at 2:59 pm

  Camille,

  Rest your worries. There will be a lot of tattoo ink seeping out of the newly tattooed area. This is very normal.

  Keep it moist! Once the tattoo dries out, the damage is done.

• 55 Sharon // Jul 1, 2009 at 9:50 pm

  I’ve had my new tattoo for 3 days now. It’s on the top of my foot. I kept the cling on it for 1 hour as advised by my tattooist. I then gently cleaned with warm water and antibacterial soap and patted dry. I apply Tattoo Goo religiously. Everytime I start to feel a little dry I apply a generous coat. I haven’t had any scabbing, just mild flaking and no pain at all. Overall, great first tattoo experience.

• 56 Emma // Jul 12, 2009 at 5:50 am

  I had my third tattoo done yesterday and it is sweating out ink like it’s going out of fashion it’s a fairly big tattoo on my shoulder and the advice I got given was to keep cling film on for the first three days then after that remove and let it do it’s own thing. Obviously washing frequently and moisturizing I use tattoo lube which I got from the shop it’s works wonders and makes the tattoo look amazing I used this product and these methods for my other two tattoos which have turned out pretty much perfect.
  All I would say is basically just do what the tattooist tells you because he or she has obviusly used these methods themselves and it worked for them because then if u follow their instructions they have no reason but to offer you free touchups should anything not go to plan .
  Xx

• 57 mike // Jul 15, 2009 at 1:48 pm

  How it heals, all depends on the artist, and how good of a job they do. If it’s done right, a tattoo will not scab. You do not need a bandage or plastic wrap at all. I just got my 5th tattoo last week,(which goes from my shoulder down to my elbow) and didn’t have any bandage or plastic wrap on it. I waited 2 hours, then washed it with anti-bacterial soap, patted it dry with a paper towel, then put curel lotion on it. It oozed for the first 2 days, while I repeated the cleaning and lotion process. I never got a scab, it just peeled a little, and now a week later, it’s 95% healed and looks great.

• 58 Derek // Jul 28, 2009 at 2:47 am

  Well, I would also caution against the cling wrap. As do about 90% of people I’ve talked to and what I’ve read on the subject. If you’ve done it before and feel comfortable then that’s fine, but it’s not a technique I would recommend to someone new to tattoos. While, in theory, if you are able to keep a very tight seal and not allow air in, then I guess you could be ok. But if someone isn’t being careful and you get some contaminants in there between your skin and the plastic, while everything is moist, then you’re asking for trouble. The tattoo does NOT have to stay wet to heal. That’s ridiculous. And Curt, you caution against using Vaseline but in the next paragraph you’re talking about not letting the petroleum jelly rub off. Vaseline IS petroleum jelly. And with all the different advice out there, the one thing that most people definitely agree on is to not use vaseline on a healing tattoo. You’ll be very hard pressed to find anyone recommending keeping an open wound, which is what a tattoo is, slathered in lotion and covered in an airtight wrapping. That’s why wounds are so deadly in the jungle, because nothing has a chance to dry. Moisture breeds bacteria and that’s what you risk with the cling wrap method. Not saying you will get infected, but you are greatly increasing your chances.

  All this talk of ink “pulling out” is a little over hyped I think. A tattoo that peels in 4 or 5 days will look just as good as one that you’ve protected under plastic for a week and then let dry out. You want the tattoo to glaze over, and peel. I use lotion twice a day and am peeled and healed within 5 days. Keeping the tattoo wet with bacitracin or vaseline and covered in plastic so it doesn’t dry out won’t make the color any better. I guess what you’re trying to avoid with your method is flaking, by keeping things wet? All you’re doing with plastic is keeping dead skin cells wet instead of drying into a protective layer while the tattoo heals underneath and then flaking off. And what you risk with that slime and plastic and dead, wet skin cells, is infection. After 2 days, my tats are sealed enough that unless I pick at it or crack it, the tattoo is perfectly protected from the elements. A little lotion to keep from cracking and I’m all good.

  Just to reiterate, using plastic isn’t guaranteeing an infection, but it’s certainly increasing your chances and I would say it’s prolonging your healing as well. I respect Curt’s opinion but I believe his method is dangerous for someone getting their first or even second tattoo and isn’t too sure about the healing process, which I imagine is most of the people coming here for advice.

  What I do, for those that are interested. Take it with a grain of salt.

  1-Take the bandage off after 4 hours and wash the blood and plasma off till all the slipperiness is gone. Yes, it’ll burn, but no pain no gain.
  2-Spray with Bactine every 3 or 4 hours. Spraying bactine is great because you don’t actually have to touch the raw skin that all important first day and it also has some numbing agents in it.
  3-The next morning, after another wash, I’ll usually rub some bacitracin into it. (Or A&D) That night it’s more Bactine.
  4-Day 3. That’s 48 hours after the tattoo. By this point, the tattoo has “scabbed” over(just a paper-thin layer). Unscented lotion 2 or 3 times a day at most. You don’t want it to stay too wet, just lightly moist.
  5- That’s it. I’ll peel on days 4-6, like clockwork. After that it’s lotion after bathing for about a week.

• 59 roxanne // Aug 15, 2009 at 11:37 am

  thank you so much. i have two tattoos and the first one did what you said, it healed no problem with no scab, but my foot one that i just got about 3 weeks ago tuesday is taking forever to heal and it’s driving me crazy to stay out of the pool. and now its flaking dry skin and the scabs are all falling off now. so i have chunks of colors in my bed from my scabs.

• 60 ann // Aug 19, 2009 at 9:28 am

  a tattoo should only be covered when leaving the shop and for no more than 4 hours! it cannot heal without air! the bacitraicin or a&d provides a protective covering that keeps out bacteria! what is wrong with you people? petroleum jelly pulls out ALL the ink!

• 61 biddie // Sep 6, 2009 at 4:45 am

  i dont know if its just me but this curt guy really doesn’t know what he’s talking about i just got my first tat on my ribs about 3 days ago i took off the wrap like my artist suggested about 4-5 hours after and patted it down with a clean napkin to clean off the blood and puss every morning i’ve actually used just for men after shave not scented lotion and it has worked beautiful yes my tat is starting to scab but it is also its cleaning up very nicely i suggest not to pick at the scab at all and just let it heal naturally and just not sleep on your tat and wear loose clothes so it can breath if you read about in cut injuries its best to keep all the wound open to the air and use anti bacteria soap i have been using nutrageana facial soap and it cleans the tat very clean i also have noticed with some friends it really is based off your skin type i naturally have soft skin so the facial soap works nice but honestly it really matters what your artist says they will know better than some guy off the internet thinking he knows best

• 62 janelle // Sep 14, 2009 at 8:28 am

  i just got my first tattoo and its on my hip i thought it would be a lot worse then what it was! i was nerves that i wasn’t cleaning it properly but there will be left over blood in the colors for a few days!

• 63 Brian // Sep 17, 2009 at 12:28 pm

  Hey, I got my tattoo on saturday and now its thursday. Im planning to play football tomorrow and the tattoo doesnt hurt anymore, so am I able to play takle football even though its only been 5 days?
  Oh and it looks like its cracking.

• 64 Curt // Sep 17, 2009 at 9:29 pm

  Brian,

  You want to subject an unhealed tattoo to the posibility of blatent trauma after only 5 days? You know this isn’t a smart move.

  There is a chance nothing will happen but there’s also a chance you split the healing tattoo and cause damage that can not be reversed.

  To each his own, but fair warning says you shouldn’t take the chance.

• 65 Rusty // Sep 28, 2009 at 8:16 pm

  I just got my first tattoo and have searched far and wide for aftercare instructions.. its been about 5 days and my tattoo is healing very nice… all i did was use lotion washing with a antibacterial soap before applying it.. i have no scabs only pealing.. i wash/lotion it 4 to 6 times a day always keeping it clean and moist.. no wrap ive heard it can ruin a good tattoo..

• 66 Sarah // Sep 30, 2009 at 11:26 pm

  I recently got a tattoo done slightly behind my ear, and I have a couple of questions.

  It is scabbing, but I know this is normal being my 3rd tattoo, but I forgot if I should be moisturizing it everyday. I have left it alone so far, the last time I cleaned it was the night after I got it done. (softly whiped it with warm water and a towel)

  I have kept my hair up the whole time, (DYING to put it down again) but I’m wondering if my hair being down and dry would really affect my tattoo?

  Need some help!

• 67 Lita Yvonne // Nov 6, 2009 at 5:03 pm

  Remove Bandage Within 2 Hrs. Of Getting Your Tattoo.
  Wash Tattoo With Warm/Hot Water & Blot Dry.
  Wash Area At Least Twice A Day For The Next Two Weeks…
  Apply Unscented Lotion To The Tattoo At 5-6 Times A Day (Curel Ultra Healing/ Lubriderm).
  When The Tattoo Begins To Scab, Do Not Pick At It & Do Not Scratch It When It Itches.
  For The First 2 weeks Avoid Direct Sunlight/ Tanning/ Hot Tubs/ Soaking Your Tattoo & BAD ADVICE FROM FRIENDS!!!!!!!!!

• 68 Ami // Nov 18, 2009 at 2:01 pm

  I just got tattoo number 11 a few days ago. I have had tattoos done in 3 different states and every artist has a different set of instructions for after care. My newest tattoo isn’t healing well as it was done over some previous scaring. However after 11 tattoos using many different types of ointments and lotions. A&D and things like that are very bad ideas. I have used the cling wrap, for 3 days after my largest tattoo and it didn’t help in healing with that. But for some people it does work and helps keep their tattoo moist enough that they don’t have serious scabbing. Depending on the tattoo and detail as well as the individual body will make scabbing and healing different. There is no one universal answer to how to care for a tattoo.

• 69 Lauren // Nov 19, 2009 at 2:52 pm

  Hey! So i just got my second tattoo, both are on each hip which is a tough spot alone. I did not do the whole plastic wrap deal, instead i created my own set up. I like to be super clean, so scabbing is JUST not an option for me. I got my tat, let it rest for two hours with the wrap, then hopped in the shower, and used a paper towel to rub down the tat. Then right after i got out of the shower, i rubbed my aquaphor on nice and thick, watied 5 mins for the nutrients to soak in (becuase as a nurse i know that it is essential to let it sit) then, i used a new clean papertown to wipe down the excess. It should not be shiny.. but it should be hydrated! I did this about 5 times on day 1, 3 times on day 2, 3 times on day 3, and 2 for the rest of the first week, Now im back at 1 shower a day its been two weeks and hey guess what.. NO SCABBING!! :) And my phoenix is as beautiful as it was on the first day, bright too!

• 70 CB // Nov 23, 2009 at 1:46 am

  Hey, I got my first tat four days ago and have been putting bepanthen on it to keep it moist and clean. It is on my wrist and hasnt oozed or anything like that. It also hasnt scabbed yet. Will it? If so what would it look like? (thick scab? like blood or just look like the ink?) I have also been told not to over apply the bepanthen, but I did it more than twice the other day because it was starting to itch and the bepanthen seemed to help. I was just wondering why it said not to overapply as some creams are 4 times a day, some less, others more etc so is it an irritation thing or a hydrating thing?
  My tattoo seems pretty much healed at the moment, I’m just curious about the above things.
  Thanks :)

• 71 freddie // Nov 29, 2009 at 12:45 pm

  Ok i got my tattoo on Wed and it is now Sun (4 days later) and i havent washed my tattoo bcuz i was told it would make da tatt lighter and i wouldnt have a dark tatt…So i havent washed it for $ days but i’ve been keepin it moist wit A&D oniment…Am i damaging my tatt by not cleanin it for these past 4 days….(Its a large tattoo on my arm from da top of my shoulder to about 1 1/2 inches above my elbow)

• 72 Tracy // Dec 1, 2009 at 12:01 pm

  My tat guy recommended leaving the bandage on for no longer than 1 hour and then using a cold compress at least 3 times the day I got it (u can stick a wet washcloth in the freezer for a few minutes if u don’t have a compress) Not only does this close up your pores and prevent scabbing, but it feels totally great to lay it on there for a few mins. 9 days later, it’s healing great! It never scabbed and still looks perfect. You should stick with cool or warm water when cleaning it, never hot as that just increases inflammation.

  I would stick with a mild antibacterial soap. Someone said they used Neutrogena facial soap which seems way too harsh to me. It contains salicylic acid which pretty much burns through layers of your skin!

• 73 Jason // Dec 6, 2009 at 2:19 am

  From someone who has two sleeves and I big back piece I know a little bit about the healing process. I think it is really good if you are able to wrap it in plastic. The biggest trick on healing it is to KEEP IT MOIST. The tattoo for the first 3-4 days or so will be oozing and wanting to scab. I’ve noticed with the oozing that if I don’t wash it about 2-3 times a day the oozing that is exiting will turn into a scab. Keeping it very moist and wrapped like that will allow it not to scab. Scabs are the enemy when it comes to tattoos. If you have a heavy scab it will pull the ink out and you will always have to go back to get a touchup. The first few days I keep A&D on it and I wrap it up with plastic to keep it moist. I shower twice a day lightly cleaning the tattoo with my hand (will be sensitive) and then drying it off completely. Afterwards I reapply the A&D ointment. After those first 3-4 days which are the most important, I apply a good moisturizing lotion (Eucerin- I found best) for the next 2 weeks and make sure to rub in the lotion completely. Total process takes about 3 weeks to complete the healing. You will see usually after 2 weeks its about done but it will probably still itch and need lotion for about another week. Make sure to use non-scented lotions too (no alcohol).

• 74 Whitney // Dec 16, 2009 at 11:41 pm

  I recently got a tattoo about a week ago and it’s now in the peeling phase but the skin underneath doesnt seem as clear like foggy is this normal or is something wrong? I had followed all of my artists aftercare instructions I just want some advice!

• 75 Lauren // Dec 22, 2009 at 11:57 am

  Whitney, that does not sound right.. Your tattoo should not become fogy. I would call your tattoo artist back ASAP.

• 76 Tomo // Feb 2, 2010 at 5:07 pm

  Not saying I’m a proffesional on tattoo’s healing, but I have two quite large tattoos, currently my second is two days old.

  And I’ve read that cling film, can actually help bacteria breed and could also make you sweat out some of the ink, obviously a problem if they’re colourful pieces like mine.

  Personally, I take the cover off after about 2 hours of a fresh tattoo, clean it with clean water and then put on Bepanthem (baby nappy rash cream) and I must say it works like a dream. I tend to put the cream on when I wake up, then mid-day and then before I go to bed. Only a thin layer to make sure I don’t over moisturise the tattoo, then on the 4th day or so, if the healing is going well I only put it on when I wake up and before I go to bed. It takes around about a week to heal, with no scabbing at all. Only downside is Bepanthem is greasy, but I swear by it.

  But I have heard cling filming a tattoo is a bad nono due to the chance of bactera breeding and sweating out some of the ink.

  Oops I forgot to add, when re-applying the cream make sure your hands are clean just give it a bit of a clean with warm water!

• 77 Rosie-Faye // Feb 12, 2010 at 11:01 am

  i have several large tattoos and all have generallly healed excellently.
  -people must remember that your skin is completly different from everone else’s.
  -I have incredibly pale skin and i get sunburnt easily.
  -personally i kept the cover my tattoo artist placed on for 3-4 hours (it was kitchen roll)
  -And your tattoo artist should have covered your tattoo with an certain cream to stop infection before he covers it with a dressing.
  -For my tattoos i removed the dressing, washed it with luke warm water to remove blood and a slimy clear discharge (not all people get it) and patted dry.
  -I then applied Bepantham cream (nappy rash cream) people somtimes disagree with using this cream but as it is meant for babies whose skin is half a thick as an adults, i think it makes the most logical sense in using it.
  -i applied a thin layer and wore loose clothing as i slept.
  -In the morning lightly wash and pat dry and apply the cream again
  repeat at least twice a day.
  -personally my tattoo starts to peel around the 4-5 days.
  -continue the regime for at least a week and a half and it should be perfect.

• 78 Jo // Feb 19, 2010 at 4:26 pm

  Hi, I got a tattoo two days ago on my ankle. I was told by my artist that I don’t need to apply any sort of cream or Tattoo gel since it probably won’t do anything, and could sometimes slow down the healing process. The area now isn’t red at all and doesn’t hurt. The only advice he gave me was to keep it dry and to not soak it with water. However, I am worried about the scab process, since I was told by my friends that sometimes when the scab falls off..the ink could come off as well.
  Would it be okay if I just followed my artist’s advice and just allow natural healing to take its path with no additional creams and gels?

  Any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

• 79 John // Mar 5, 2010 at 12:48 am

  I just got my tattoo on tuesday, and it is now going on Friday. The artist put cling wrap over the tattoo and after applying some ointment to it. He told me to take the wrap off after 3 hours and wash it with unscented dove bar soap, let it air dry for 3 hours and re-apply he cling wrap. I was told to do this every 3 hours for 3 days after apply non-scented lotion like lubriderm as needed until it’s done healing, I don’t see how you could get an infection if your keeping up with your cleanliness of the tattoo. It’s been a little over 2 days now and it’s already in the peeling phase.

• 80 Mandy // Mar 9, 2010 at 2:19 am

  I recently got my first tattoo at a well recommended parlor. I was clearly instructed on how to care for it. I am not putting down as wrong anyone elses suggestions, but this is what I was told.

  Keep the plastic wrap on until you are ready to clean it. Use antibacterial soap and wash with your fingertips only, no abrasive materials. Airdry for about 15 or 20 minutes. I was given a vitamin cream to apply twice a day for the first four days, using only a small amount. He was very specific about not gooping it up as to let the tat breathe. After the first four days was up, I was told to apply plain, fragrance free lotion to keep it moisturized. I have had my tat for 5 days and it is mostly healed.

• 81 Brian // Mar 9, 2010 at 1:52 pm

  Good thread. Regarding the Saran wrap controversy, I had to learn the right method the hard way. I recently got a large elbow tattoo. The artist put ointment and Saran wrap on it immiedately after I was done. I intended to take it off after a couple of hours, but fell asleep (I was really tired after long, painful, late-night session). When I awoke 8 hrs later, my elbow was shriveled from the moisture/lack of breathing. Needless to say I took the wrap off right away, but it was too late. Now I am going to need major touch up work on a really painful place to get ink (inner elbow). Part of my issue was the placement of my tat. However, trust me, nobody should suffocate their beautiful new piece with plastic wrap (or petroleum jelly due to the same principal).

• 82 josh // Mar 12, 2010 at 3:32 am

  I have my arm sleeved to my wrist. and 1/2 sleeve on other arm. chest stomach and both legs… and i have always wrapped it atleast 2 or 3 days and at night for the following 2-3 days.. will heal like a dream but iff ur gonna wrap it.. dont put ointment.. and after the 2 days at night when u wrap it.. apply a thin layer then pat with paper towel.. wont scab.. and will be healed EASILY in 5-6 days

• 83 TattooedMommy // Mar 12, 2010 at 11:32 pm

  i just got my 2nd tattoo last night and he told me to use the a&d for 2 – 3 days and then after that switch to an unscented lotion until it is completely healed

• 84 TattooedMommy // Mar 12, 2010 at 11:35 pm

  also forgot that i was told to wash it that night when i got home and in the morning when i woke up and before i went to bed again the next night and then return to my normal shower routine.

• 85 Lane // Mar 13, 2010 at 2:23 pm

  I just received my first tattoo a week ago…was told to wash it in the morning and night applying unscented lotion after (apply lotion throughout the day as well). Tattoo had slight scab over top…started to flake off after 7 days and appears to be healing just fine. Color is nice where scab has fallen off!

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