If you are considering getting a tattoo, the job is not done just because the tattoo artist lets you get up from the chair. It is important for you to take care of the tattoo, particularly if you have gotten portrait tattoos. With this in mind, what are a few of the most important points you need to think about if you are trying to take care of your tattoo? Speak with a professional before the tattoo begins, and make sure you think about the aftercare of the tattoo. That way, it is going to look as good as possible once it heals.
Make Sure You Prevent an Infection from Setting in
First, you need to make sure an infection does not develop in the tattoo. Even though the vast majority of tattoo artists are going to follow sterile procedures, there is a risk of infection anytime the surface of the skin is broken. For example, if you notice you are running a fever after the tattoo has been put on, there is a chance you may have an infection. Or, if you notice abnormal color pus coming from that tattoo site, there might be an infection present. If you notice any signs of an infection, you need to reach out to a doctor as soon as possible. That way, the infection can be treated before it spreads to other parts of your body.
Wear Sunscreen When You Go Outside
Next, you also need to make sure that you wear sunscreen when you go outside. If the tattoo is exposed to a lot of sunlight, the colors could fade relatively quickly. Therefore, you need to make sure you wear sunscreen. When you are looking for sunscreen, you need to find something that has UVA and UVB protection. Furthermore, you should try to find something that has a relatively high SPF factor. The higher the SPF factor is, the more effective the sunscreen is going to be. You must make sure you protect the tattoo when you go outside. Otherwise, you may not like the look at the tattoo.
Let the Tattoo Breathe
Finally, you also have to make sure that you let the tattoo breathe. Oxygen is important for letting the skin heal properly. Even though you may think keeping the tattoo covered is better, this is not the case. In reality, you need to give the skin access to the nutrients it requires to heal properly. If you have concerns about exposing the tattoo, you should talk about them with the tattoo artist. That way, you understand exactly what you need to do to take care of a tattoo.
Remember that there is a chance the tattoo could bleed for several days after it has been put on. You should make sure that you wipe away the blood and keep the tattoo clean during this process. That way, you can reduce the chances of complications taking place.
Contact a Professional Tattoo Artist with Any Concerns
Finally, if there is anything about the tattoo that doesn’t look quite right, you need to reach out to a professional who can help you. You need to raise any concerns as quickly as possible. That way, something can be done before irreparable harm has been done to the tattoo. Before you get the tattoo put on, you need to speak with the tattoo artist about the aftercare required. That way, you have reasonable expectations about what you need to do with the tattoo to take care of it. If you take care of the tattoo, it will look fantastic for many years to come.
