For both new tattoos and piercings, wash your hands before touching the area, gently clean it with a mild, unscented soap or saline solution, and pat it dry with a disposable paper towel. Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol or peroxide, antibiotic ointments, and picking or scratching. For tattoos, apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment, and for piercings, avoid touching them excessively and keep them dry, especially avoiding swimming in public water until fully healed. Tattoo aftercare
- Clean: After removing the initial bandage (usually within a few hours), wash the tattoo gently with a mild, unscented liquid soap and your clean hands.
- Dry: Pat the area completely dry with a disposable paper towel. Do not rub or use a cloth towel.
- Moisturize: Apply a very thin layer of your tattoo artist's recommended aftercare ointment or moisturizer. A thick layer can clog the pores and hinder healing.
- Repeat: Repeat the cleaning and moisturizing process 2–3 times a day.
- Avoid: Do not pick, scratch, or rub the tattoo. Avoid soaking, swimming in pools or baths, and sun exposure until fully healed.
- Monitor: Some flaking and peeling is normal; do not pick at it.
Piercing aftercare
- Clean: Wash your hands with soap and water before touching the piercing. Clean the piercing 2–3 times a day using a sterile saline spray or soak.
- Dry: Gently pat the area dry with a disposable paper towel.
- Avoid: Do not touch or twist the jewelry. Avoid harsh chemicals, ointments, and alcohol.
- Protect: Avoid submerging the piercing in bodies of water like pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans for at least 8–10 weeks, or until fully healed.
- Monitor: Be patient; a piercing may look healed from the outside before it is fully healed inside. Continue the aftercare routine for the entire healing period.
- Follow-up: Some piercings may require a check-up and jewelry downsize after a few weeks to ensure proper healing.
Note: Always follow your specific artist's instructions, as aftercare can vary based on the individual's procedure and body.