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When you decide to get a tattoo, and have chosen a reputable parlor, most tattoo artists will have numerous designs from which you can choose. If you can't find anything you like, the artist will generally work with you to create a custom design. You should always take time to think about the tattoo you're getting because it's going to be with you for the rest of your life.
A good tattoo artist will take the time to teach you how to care for your new tattoo. Experts know how important the aftercare is to keep your tattoo healthy. Once the artist has finished the tattoo, he will wipe it down, rinse it, and apply a coat of ointment and a bandage.
When your artwork is complete, the artist should then tell you how to take care of your new tattoo. Good tattoo artists will give you a printed sheet that goes into detail on how to take care of it. If the artist doesn't give you detailed instructions, no need to worry, because it's actually a simple task -- As long as you know the basics of what you should and should not do.
When you first get home, do not shower immediately following the application of a new tattoo. You will need to keep it dry for the next couple of days, but should clean it every few hours. Make sure you wash your hands before touching the new tattoo to clean it. If your hands are clean, you won't have to worry about new infections.
Before you go home, stop by your local drug store and pick up some A&D ointment. A&D ointment is the best to use for a tattoo. It will protect your tattoo and also help with the healing. When the ointment dries up, make sure to wipe off the old ointment and apply a fresh layer, being certain not to rub the tattoo too hard to avoid delaying the healing process. You should avoid soap at all costs for the next few days.
A&D ointment keeps your skin healthy while the healing is taking place. You may need to use the ointment for up to a week, depending on the speed of the healing process. After you stop using the ointment, you can then use unscented lotion to keep it hydrated. Avoid scented lotions because sometimes scented products can irritate the skin and make the skin tender.
It is generally okay to stop using ointments and lotions after the first few days. After they have healed, tattoos will generally start to form a scab. Your best bet is to leave the scab alone and it will fall off on its own. Picking at it, at this stage, could potentially mess up the design. If the scab is itchy and irritating, you can apply some more ointment to help soothe it.
Tattoos can be a great thing to have if you take proper care and precautions. Taking good care of your tattoo will eliminate any chance of infection, and will keep it healthy for as long as you live. You won't have anything to worry about if you follow the above advice on how to take care for your tattoo.
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