A new tattoo can be exciting, but it’s vital to take care of your new body art after getting it done. One of the most common questions asked by those with fresh ink is: How long after getting a tattoo can you wash it with soap? In this article, we’ll explore the optimal time to start washing your tattoo with soap and provide guidelines on how to care for your new body art.
The Waiting Period
After getting a tattoo, it’s essential to give your skin some time to heal before washing it with soap. The general recommendation is to wait at least 24 hours before introducing any soap products to the area. This allows the tattoo to settle, and the initial layer of plasma and excess ink to be removed with a gentle rinse.
Choosing the Right Soap
Once it’s time to wash your tattoo, it’s crucial to choose a soap that’s gentle and free of harsh chemicals. Look for mild, fragrance-free, and dye-free soaps, as these are less likely to irritate the skin and hinder the healing process. Avoid using antibacterial soaps, as they can be too harsh and strip away the necessary oils your skin needs for healing.
How to Wash Your Tattoo
When washing your tattoo, use lukewarm water and a small amount of soap. Gently lather the soap onto your fingertips and then apply it to the tattoo using gentle, circular motions. Avoid scrubbing or applying too much pressure, as this can cause irritation or damage the tattoo. Rinse the area thoroughly, ensuring that all soap residue is removed. Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel, avoiding any rubbing motions.
Ongoing Tattoo Care
In addition to washing your tattoo with soap, it’s essential to follow a comprehensive aftercare routine to ensure proper healing. This includes:
Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion or ointment to the tattoo after each wash. This will help keep the tattooed area hydrated and promote healing.
Avoiding Sun Exposure: Keep your new tattoo out of direct sunlight for at least two weeks, as UV rays can cause fading and damage to the ink.
Avoiding Soaking: Stay away from swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths for at least two weeks, as soaking can cause the ink to fade or become patchy.
What Is Saniderm?
Saniderm is a waterproof, breathable, non-toxic, skin-safe adhesive wrap that helps to protect your tattoo while it heals. It’s made from medical-grade materials and can be worn for up to two weeks without needing to be removed or replaced.
Saniderm works by forming an airtight seal around the tattooed area, which reduces the amount of bacteria that comes into contact with your new ink. This allows the body’s natural healing process to take place without being interfered with by outside factors like germs and dirt.
The wrap is also highly breathable, which means your tattoo has the opportunity to breathe and heal more quickly. It’s important to remember that Saniderm doesn’t stop air from getting in or out of your skin – it just prevents outside germs from getting into contact with your new tattoo.
Many people ask if they can shower while wearing a Saniderm. As explained by Sacred Raven Tattoo, the answer is – Yes, after getting a tattoo, you can shower with Saniderm, just be sure not to leave it in the shower for longer than a minute. You don’t want your tattoo getting wet.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s crucial to wait at least 24 hours after getting a tattoo before washing it with soap. Always choose a mild, fragrance-free soap, and be gentle when washing the area. Afterward, pat the tattoo dry and apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free lotion or ointment. Avoiding direct sunlight and soaking for at least two weeks will also help prevent fading and damage to your new ink.
