The average amount of time a tattoo takes to heal is a month, but can be as short as 2 weeks or as long as 3 months. It’s best to listen to your tattoo provider on the approximate time it’s safe to swim again. Showering with a new tattoo is okay. Just don’t stay in the shower for too long and avoid using loofahs or sponges until your skin has healed. Don’t stress if your tattoo gets a little wet before it has fully healed. Just dab it quickly with a clean towel to avoid attracting bacteria.
Avoid swimming in oceans, lakes, and rivers altogether. While the chlorine in a swimming pool is still bad for a tattoo, the bacteria found in large freshwater bodies (especially coastal freshwater bodies) are far more dangerous and unpredictable. [3] X Research source
If petroleum jelly is too harsh on your skin, coconut oil, cocoa butter, and other water-based lotions can offer the same protection. Your tattoo provider may also have recommendations. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Make sure to pat your skin lightly with a towel. Do not rub!
If you’re having a hard time choosing a moisturizer or lotion, look for non-comedogenic and fragrance-free products. The milder, the better!
Remove your tattoo bandage anywhere from 1 to 5 hours after your piece has been completed. Since every piece is different, talk to your tattoo provider for their advice on when they feel it’s the best time to peel the bandage off.
After 5 days, replace the antibiotic ointment with a fragrance-free body lotion.
Antibacterial soaps can be purchased online or at any major grocery store/pharmacy. Some tattoo shops even sell their recommended soap brands in their stores.
Don’t over-moisturize! Overdoing it on the aftercare cream can clog your pores which will lead to breakouts and slow the healing process. The usual recommendation for applying aftercare cream is 2-3 times a day. However, this may vary depending on the piece. Listen to your tattoo provider for their regiment and cream recommendations. The best time to apply moisturizer on your tattoo is 5-10 minutes after it has been air dried after it’s cleaned.
