When you are done with your new tattoo, the next thing you are probably going to be bothered about is how you can take proper care of it. When you leave the tattoo studio, the tattoo artist is not responsible for any more problems you have with your tattoo later on if you fail to take care of your tattoo properly. It would be a smart idea to follow the advice which is given here. A properly etched tattoo in all the right conditions could easily turn bad if you fail to stick to the right curative procedures.

Prior to your exit from the tattoo parlor, your tattoo artist will cover your fresh tattoo with a bandage. The reason for this bandage is in order to prevent bacteria from getting into your wound, despite the fact that your tattoo is a tattoo, it is also a wound. A wound is open flesh and it is prime real estate for bacteria as well as an infection. It is important that you do not remove your bandage for at least two hours.

After you remove the bandage, you will want to wash your tattoo. Use lukewarm water and mild, liquid antibacterial soap to gently wash away any ointment, blood to completely clean the area. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive. Your hand is your best tool in this case. Follow these instructions carefully so you can be certain that you are taking proper care of your new tattoo.

Pat the area of the tattoo firmly with a good clean towel or a paper one in order to get it completely dry, after this use a bit of ointment. Ointment that has vitamins A & D in it would be most preferable but if that isn't available Bacitracin or a similar antibacterial ointment is okay.

Make sure you do not use Neosporin, it's a great idea for cuts and scrapes but it doesn't do as well for tattoos. Certain people have an allergic reaction to Neosporin and this may cause little red bumps which when they go away, make the ink go away as well.

After you have finished using the ointment for a period of between 3 and 5 days, then you should make sure that the tattoo is kept clean on a continual basis and for this you may use a mild lotion rather than using ointment. The purpose behind all this is to ensure that your skin is kept soft. Lotions that are free from dye and fragrances should also be used as well. Eucerin does wonders for a number of people too.

Showering with your new tattoo is okay just as long as you only get it slightly wet without soaking it or getting soap on it. Swimming is out of the question under any circumstances.

After a few days, you will notice some peeling and possibly a little scabbing. Excessive scabbing could indicate a poorly done tat. Apply warm moist compresses to the scabs for about 5 minutes 2-3 times a day to soften them and they will eventually come off on their own. Taking proper care of your new tattoo means that you will have to endure a bit of discomfort so when your tat starts to heal it will itch but NEVER pick it or scratch it. Rather just slap it softly; this means the tattoo is almost healed.