Fresh Tattoo Work:
* KEEP IT CLEAN ~ always the best thing for any new tattoo is to keep it clean. Soap and water are just fine, all soap is anti-bacterial and effective against the risk of infection. Keep your tattoo dry when you are active and less (dust, dirt, pollen, and other atmospheric contaminants) will stick to it. Always wash your tattoo immediately after any physical or outdoor activity to remove sweat and grime.
* KEEP THE TATTOO OUT OF DIRECT SUNLIGHT ~ this is very important since your skin is already trying to heal and can't protect itself from the sun. Loose breathable clothing is best to shade/cover the tattoo, especially since you should NOT be using sunblock until the tattoo is fully healed.
* DO NOT SOAK YOUR TATTOO ~ too much moisture can make your tattoo loose color and prolong healing, plus it will be more prone to infection. So, NO ~ lakes, ponds, rivers, pools, hot tubs, saunas, slip-n'-slides, water-slides, soak parks, or anything else that puts you in water for any duration, including baths and long showers. After 7-10 days you are generally fine to enjoy these activities again.
* DO NOT BEAT IT UP ~ whatever your summertime activities consist of, be cautious not to damage the tattoo while it is healing. Any damage can result in loss of color, prolonged healing, and even infection. If you do scratch, bump, pick, split, or burn your tattoo; then keep it dry and talk to your artist about the damage, they will guide you to the best healing options. (*DO NOT PICK AT YOUR HEALING TATTOO)
Healed Tattoo Work:
* WEAR SUNBLOCK ~ SPF 30 or stronger will protect your tattoo over the years from getting dull or blurry. Sun is the only thing that will damage your tattoo (other than a direct wound) once it is healed, so take good care of it. 'Touch-ups' only refer to fixing an error in a new tattoo, not an aged one. Therefore, if you don't preserve your color and want it brightened in the future, it may cost as much as the original because it would all need re-done to look good ~ just take care of it and it will look good for many, many years.* SHOW IT OFF REGULARLY ~ and be sure to tell everyone who did it for you and where I can be found...This always makes your tattoo look better!
Summer is a great time to get tattooed and even a better time to show them off, come in and get some!
