Hand tattoo aftercare is essential to ensure your ink looks vibrant and lasts a lifetime. Because our hands are constantly involved in daily life—from grabbing, pushing, pulling, and interacting with various external surfaces—they face more wear and tear than other parts of the body. This constant use makes it critical to properly care for the skin to reduce fading and protect the artwork.
Start by keeping the area clean and moisturized to prevent bacteria and avoid infections. Exposure to elements like sunlight and cold weather can weaken the ink over time, so it’s important to take precautions. Pay attention to sensitive areas like palms and fingers, which are prone to wrinkles and stretching. These parts may not hold ink well, potentially causing your tattoo to fade in just a few months or years.
By following basic aftercare tips, you can extend the life of your tattoo and keep it looking its best. Monitor the healing process closely, and don’t rush back to your day-to-day tasks too quickly after a session. A healthy approach to aftercare ensures your tattoo remains a striking piece of artwork for the long haul.
READ MORE TATTOO CARE FIRST 48 HOURS
What’s the best way to heal a hand tattoo?
- Getting a hand tattoo can be painful, but you can manage the pain and help your skin heal by applying ice immediately after the session.
- Applying ice helps to reduce inflammation and makes the area feel less tender as you adjust to the new tattoo.
- Caring for your tattoo at home is essential to prevent irritation and complications.
- Clean your tattoo 3-4x daily to keep the area sanitized and promote proper healing.
- Like any other tattoo, maintaining cleanliness is key to ensuring a smooth healing process.
- Proper care involves not just frequent cleaning but also understanding how to handle your tattoo for the best results.
Can you wash your hands after getting a hand tattoo?
Proper hygiene is essential after getting a hand tattoo. Be sure to wash your hands and clean the tattoo at least three to four times per day. For convenience, schedule your cleaning routine for the morning, late morning or early afternoon, evening, and just before bed.
Beyond the standard 3-4x daily, additional cleaning is necessary if the tattoo is exposed to potential bacteria. This includes situations like eating, exercising, working outside, or other activities where the area might come into contact with dirt or germs. Consistent cleaning ensures your tattoo stays safe and heals properly.
Best Soaps for Tattoo Aftercare
Avoid using scented soaps on your new tattoo, as they often contain artificial chemicals and fragrances that can irritate healing skin. Instead, choose a fragrance-free soap to protect your tattoo and keep the area safe.
For added hygiene, opt for a liquid, pump soap rather than a bar soap. Bar soaps can sit in small pools of water after use, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that could infect and damage your tattoo. Keeping the area clean with the right products is key to proper aftercare.
How to clean the area of Hand Tattoo
When your tattoo is on the back or side of your hand, make sure to diligently clean your palms with warm water for 15-20 seconds before using your palms and fingers to clean the tattooed area.
If the tattoo is located directly on your palm, gently wash the area with warm water for the same amount of time. Avoid scrubbing thoroughly, as this can cause irritation or even permanently damage the ink.
After cleaning, gently dry the tattooed area with a clean paper towel to keep it hygienic and prevent complications.
How to Keep Your Tattoo Hydrated
Moisturize your skin regularly to help it regenerate quickly, reduce irritation, and maintain a healthy environment for your skin cells to heal the damaged area. Dry skin slows down cellular activity, delaying the healing process and increasing susceptibility to bacterial infections that could ruin your tattoo.
Avoid using any ointment or moisturizing cream for at least 24 hours after your tattoo session. Once you start, use a scent-free lotion and apply it 3-5 times per day during the first two weeks, then incorporate it into your daily skincare regimen. Be cautious with products like Aquaphor or Vaseline, as these petroleum-based options can harbour too much moisture and affect healing.
For enhanced care, try an all-in-one tattoo healing balm like Ink Balm. Apply 1-2x per day in a circular motion with your finger to promote optimal moisture, improve skin health, and enhance your tattoo’s vibrancies.
Protect your Hand Tattoo from the Sun
To protect your tattoo from harmful UV exposure, avoid the sun entirely for at least 3-4 weeks after your tattoo session. Even a few minutes in the sun can cause your tattoo to fade, crack, or blister.
If avoiding the sun isn’t possible, cover the tattoo with a broad-spectrum, fragrance-free sunscreen with 30-50 SPF. Opt for sunscreens made with organic ingredients, as artificial additives can irritate your skin.
When applying sunscreen to other parts of your body, make sure to apply a coat directly over the tattooed area. This ensures proper protection, even if you’ll only be outside for a few minutes.
Don’t wear gloves
Avoid wearing gloves over your tattoo, as they can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria, which may hinder the healing process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper aftercare is essential for ensuring your hand tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy over time. Follow your artist’s instructions, keep the area clean and moisturized, avoid excessive sun exposure, and refrain from picking or scratching the tattoo. By taking these steps and being patient, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy your stunning hand tattoo for years to come.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for a hand tattoo to heal?
A hand tattoo typically takes 2-4 weeks to heal on the surface, but full healing can take up to 6-8 weeks. Proper aftercare is crucial during this time.
2. Can I wash my hands normally after getting a hand tattoo?
You can gently wash your hands with unscented soap and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing the tattooed area and pat it dry with a clean towel.
3. When can I expose my hand tattoo to the sun?
It’s best to avoid direct sunlight until the tattoo is fully healed (about 6-8 weeks). After healing, always use sunscreen to protect it from fading.
