You need to decide on a design and color for the tattoo, and the region where you want to get the tattoo done. Also, you will have to find a good place and an experienced artist to get it done. After getting inked, you need to strictly follow some pieces of advice to ensure that the tattoo is not infected.

Aftercare for your tattoo starts as soon as you get it done. The artist will apply a layer of petroleum jelly after the tattoo is done and cover the area with a plastic wrap or bandage. Covering the region helps prevent any bacteria or infection from affecting the skin. Also, the tattoo won’t face any irritation due to clothes or any other thing getting in contact with the skin. You need to follow some guidelines to protect your skin until it heals. This article aims talks about some things to know about tattoo aftercare:

1. How long does a tattoo take to heal?
On average, a tattoo takes about 4 months to heal completely, but it appears to be healed on the surface in about 2-3 weeks. It may appear scaly and shiny in the first few weeks, and you need to follow instructions to aid the healing process. You can also consult a doctor if you notice anything out of the normal.

2. What are the safety measures you need to take before you get a tattoo?
An important piece of advice to follow before getting a tattoo is to take some safety precautions. Firstly, you need to go to a reputed studio with trained experts and also check their ratings and whether they follow all the health regulations. Ensure that the tattoo artist is wearing a fresh pair of gloves before starting the process. You should also ensure that they are using fresh needles, tubes, and other equipment.

3. How can you take good care of your tattoo?
Here are some tips to be followed when you get a tattoo:

• Keep the tattoo region clean
• Use a mild moisturizer
• Avoid exposure to the sun
• Avoid swimming
• Don’t wear clothes that are tight near the tattooed region
• Avoid touching the region for about 2 weeks after getting a tattoo

4. Should you moisturize your new tattoo?
You can moisturize your tattoo about three to five times a day for about 2 weeks, and continue moisturizing the region after it has healed to keep it looking fresh. Use unscented moisturizers with minimal chemicals.
The proteins in coconut oil can help rejuvenate the skin after getting a tattoo. These proteins help repair the cells that have been damaged at a healthy rate, so coconut oil can also be applied.

5. What are the things you need to avoid when you get a tattoo?
The best tattoo advice includes avoiding the following when you get inked:

• Direct sunlight
• Unwrap a new tattoo only when the artist recommends it
• Do not rewrap if not needed
• Avoid excessive sweating
• Don’t pick the tattoo
• Avoid shaving
• Use unscented products only
• Avoid wearing tight clothes

6. How can you tell if you have an infection after getting a tattoo?
Here are some signs of an infection and will require a visit to a doctor:

• Tenderness in the region even after the first few weeks
• A burning sensation
• Swelling even after the first few days have gone by
• Yellow or green pus
• Foul odor