IN THE TRACE OF INK
Tattoo industry
Dövmenin İyileşme Süreci
İlk 24 Saat
"A very important part of the first 24 hours is keeping your tattoo clean, fresh, and moisturized."
“Some swelling, redness, and general irritation are normal after a fresh tattoo (after all, foreign particles have been repeatedly embedded in your skin). However, this usually subsides relatively quickly within the first 48 hours.”
“At the end of your session, your artist will cover your tattoo with plastic wrap or a second skin. It’s best to ask your artist how long this should be left on, as they will all have different recommendations.”
Here are some tips to help your tattoo heal.
Do this:
Wear loose clothing to your appointment so it doesn't rub against your tattoo.
Keep it clean and moisturized (only with natural/tattoo-friendly products!).
Let him breathe.
Don't do it:
You can wash your tattoo, but don't leave it submerged in water. Showering is fine, but bathing, swimming pools, the sea, etc., are not suitable while your tattoo is healing.
Do not allow any pets to rub against or lick it.
Avoid intense fitness or exercise for at least 48 hours.
Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight.
Do not scratch or peel off the scabs.
"Generally, if a tattoo doesn't heal within a month, there's another problem," says Dr. Nicolas Kluger, Dermatologist. Long-term healing times vary from person to person. But to give you an idea of what to expect, we spoke to a leading dermatologist.
Dr. Nicolas Kluger (you can find him on Instagram at @the_tattooed_derm) is a professor of Dermatology at the University Hospital Helsinki.
"Generally, healing takes two to four weeks. Usually, if a tattoo doesn't heal within a month, there's another problem, such as an allergy or infection," he says.
One factor that can affect how quickly your tattoo heals is the type of tattoo you got.
Nicolas says, "For example, light tattoos (drawings) heal faster than tattoos that cover large areas with color. A microblading eyebrow also heals quite quickly. However, a month is a safe limit to say if there are any problems."
Nicolas says that generally the location of the tattoo shouldn't affect how quickly it heals, but there can be exceptions.
"Of course, if you get a tattoo in an area that's constantly rubbing, like the ankle of a shoe, and you don't let it rest, that can affect healing," he says.
Are you taking any medication?
According to Nicolas, another factor that can delay healing is any treatments a person might be receiving while getting a tattoo. So, if you're taking any medication, it's a good idea to check that.
For example, Nicolas says, "I don't recommend people getting tattoos while taking isotretinoin (for acne treatment) because there can be delays in healing or high doses of corticosteroids (a type of anti-inflammatory drug) may be needed.
Nicolas adds, "Diabetic patients have no reason to worry if their diabetes is well controlled during the tattooing process."
What can be done to ensure a tattoo heals properly and quickly?
The First Weeks: The Tattoo Healing Process
In the first few weeks after getting a tattoo, the skin repairs itself, and special care is needed for the tattoo to heal.
1. Daily Cleaning and Moisturizing
✅ Clean the tattooed area daily (2-3 times a day is sufficient).
✅ Clean using chemical-free and alcohol-free soaps.
✅ Apply a moisturizing "original tattoo cream," but don't overdo it.
2. Be patient with the itching.
- Mild crusting and itching may occur in the tattoo area after the first week.
- Never scratch or pick at the scabs, as this can alter the color and shape of the tattoo.
- Apply a light moisturizer to soothe the skin and reduce itching.
- Do not apply excessive amounts of cream.
3. Be careful when exposing to sunlight and water.
🚫 Avoid direct sun exposure, as UV rays can cause tattoos to fade.
🚫 Avoid environments with intense contact with water, such as the sea, pools, and saunas (for at least 2-3 weeks).
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Long-Term Tattoo Protection Recommendations
To maintain the color and vibrancy of your tattoo after it has fully healed, you should follow these recommendations:
Sunscreen Usage:
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your tattoo from the sun.
- Applying sunscreen before going outside, especially during the summer months, helps the color stay vibrant for longer.
Moistening:
- Keeping the tattoo area moisturized prevents fading and keeps the skin healthy.
- Moisturizers or natural oils containing hyaluronic acid can help keep tattoos looking bright.
Avoid chemical products:
- Alcohol-based products, harsh soaps, and perfumed creams can damage the tattooed area.
- Protect the tattooed area with mild, natural products.
Nutrition for the Overall Health of Your Tattoo:
- Healthy skin will help your tattoo last longer. Foods containing vitamins A and E can help preserve the appearance of your tattoo.
- Drinking plenty of water increases skin elasticity, helping the tattoo stay vibrant longer.
Conclusion: Protect your tattoo for life!
A tattoo isn't just a mark of ink; it's a work of art! With proper care, you can keep your tattoo vibrant and healthy.
- Practice proper hygiene in the first few days.
- Be patient with the itching and don't force the scabbing off.
- Use sunscreen and moisturizer in the long term.
By taking the best care of your tattoo, you can ensure it looks great for years to come.
