Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience - your skin becomes the canvas for beautiful artwork. But it is also a responsibility. You must look after it properly to maintain the design's vibrancy and avoid infections. One crucial part of aftercare is cleaning your tattoo, primarily with the right soap.
What Soap to Use on a Tattoo: Making the Right Choice
So, what soap to use on a new tattoo? In choosing the right tattoo soap, you want something gentle, mild, and ideally, unscented. Harsh soaps can irritate fresh skin, and your tattooed skin is sensitive, especially at the beginning.
It's a safe bet to go for soaps that are pH-balanced or formulated for sensitive skin. Baby soaps or unscented antibacterial soaps used in medical environments can be a great choice.
What Soap Not to Use on a New Tattoo
Just as it's essential to know what soap to use on a tattoo, knowing which ones to steer clear of is equally important. So, what soap not to use on a new tattoo? You'll want to avoid any soaps that are heavy-duty or deodorant soaps, as they can be pretty harsh on the skin.
Any soap labelled as 'antibacterial' may sound good for a fresh tattoo, but beware - some contain alcohol or sodium lauryl sulphate, which can be very drying. On top of that, soaps with strong fragrances or colorants can also be irritating, so it's best to avoid these where possible.
The Correct Technique to Wash Your New Tattoo
Knowing which soaps to use and avoid isn't where it ends; you also need to refine your washing technique when considering how to look after a new tattoo. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wash your tattoo:
- Wet your hands thoroughly.
- Add soap, and lather well.
- Apply the soapy lather to your tattoo. Do this gently; don't rub, instead, lightly pat.
- Rinse the soap off with lukewarm water. Again, don't scrub or use too much force.
- Pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
- Don’t forget to moisturise!
Repeat this 2-3 times a day during the first few weeks.
When Can I Stop Washing my Tattoo with Antibacterial Soap: Knowing When to Switch
You might be wondering, "When can I stop washing my tattoo with antibacterial soap?" The answer largely depends on your tattoo's healing. When your tattoo is completely healed—which usually takes between two to four weeks—you can gradually transition to regular soap. Monitor your skin for any signs of inflammation or infection, and if these persist, stick with the gentle antibacterial soap a little longer.
Tattoo Numbing Cream Co. – By Your Side in Your Tattoo Journey
At Tattoo Numbing Cream Co., our job doesn't end when the tattooing session is over. We believe in empowering you with the necessary knowledge to help you navigate the post-tattooing phase. Through our products and practical advice like this, we aim to make your tattoo journey a rewarding one.
Our signature Tattoo Soap leads the market in providing unrivalled healing, minimising fading as well as protecting against infection and acne.
The Final Picture
Your fresh tattoo needs gentle, caring attention to flourish into a vibrant piece of body art. With the right choice of soap and proper washing technique, you can ensure it looks and feels its best at all times.
Whether it’s your first or your tenth, getting a new tattoo is a journey to be excited about, and at Tattoo Numbing Cream Co., we're keen to be a part of it. With the right care regimen in place, you can confidently elevate your tattoo game, one ink at a time.
Please feel free to reach out for any questions about tattoo aftercare. You can also browse our handy blogs about other procedures, like our post about microblading aftercare and healing process.
