Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Perfect Tattoo Care and Recovery
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Amanda Thompson, MD, Dermatologist
Why Choose Melao Balm for Your Tattoo Aftercare?
At Melao, we understand the importance of a well-healed tattoo. Our Melao Balm is specially formulated with natural ingredients to help your tattoo heal faster while keeping it moisturized and vibrant. Whether you’re healing a small or large tattoo, our balm provides the hydration and protection your skin needs to restore your ink without the risk of irritation or infection.
Dr. Amanda Thompson, MD, emphasizes the importance of using high-quality, dermatologist-approved products for tattoo care. “Tattoo healing is a delicate process that requires careful attention to hydration and protection. Using a safe, nourishing balm like Melao is crucial to achieving optimal results.
For more expert advice on tattoo care and to purchase Melao Balm, visit our website and experience the difference in aftercare.
Preparing for Your Tattoo Appointment
Before you even step into the chair, proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth tattoo experience and quick healing afterward.
Eat, Hydrate, and Dress Comfortably
It’s important to fuel your body before your tattoo session with a balanced meal and plenty of water. This helps you stay comfortable during the session. Dress in loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritating your fresh tattoo.
Avoid Alcohol, Aspirin, and Caffeine
For the best tattoo experience, avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, and caffeine before your appointment. These substances can affect how your body reacts to the tattooing process and make it harder to heal.
Prepare Your Skin
Exfoliate and moisturize your skin on the day of your tattoo. Avoid sun exposure for a few days leading up to your appointment. Sunburned skin can make the tattooing process painful and slow down healing.
How to Care for Your New Tattoo
Your tattoo’s healing process begins immediately after your session ends. Proper aftercare is crucial to avoid infection, fading, and scarring. Here's how to care for your tattoo in the days following your appointment:
1. Keep the Tattoo Covered
After your session, your tattoo artist will place a bandage over the tattooed area. Follow your artist’s advice on when to remove the bandage—generally, it’s recommended to leave it on for at least 3–4 hours. If you’re using a special bandage like Tegaderm, you might be instructed to keep it on for up to 3–4 days.
2. Wash Your Tattoo Gently
Once the bandage is off, wash your tattoo gently using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Use Melao Tattoo Wash for a soft cleanse, and never scrub your tattoo. Pat it dry with a clean, soft towel to avoid irritating the area.
3. Moisturize with Melao Balm
Moisturizing is a crucial part of the healing process. After your tattoo is cleaned, apply a thin layer of Melao Balm to lock in moisture and protect the area from cracking or bleeding. Melao Balm is made with nourishing ingredients that soothe and hydrate the skin, ensuring that the healing process goes smoothly.
Apply the balm two to three times a day. Be careful not to over-apply, as excess product can suffocate the skin and slow healing.
4. Protect Your Tattoo from the Sun
Sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to cause your tattoo to fade and disrupt the healing process. Avoid direct sunlight for the first 2–4 weeks. Once healed, you can protect your ink by wearing clothing that covers the tattoo when in the sun.
5. Avoid Strenuous Activity
For the first two days, avoid any intense physical activity that might stretch the skin or cause sweating, which can introduce bacteria to the tattoo. For the first 4–6 weeks, refrain from heavy workouts and always clean your tattoo after any physical activity.
6. Wear Loose Clothing
Tight clothing can irritate your tattoo or rub off ointment, causing unnecessary discomfort. Choose loose, breathable clothing to keep your tattoo from being aggravated during the healing process.
7. Do Not Pick at Scabs
Scabbing is part of the natural healing process. Picking at scabs can pull ink from your tattoo, leaving permanent damage. If itching becomes a problem, resist the urge to scratch and apply Melao Balm to soothe the area.
8. Avoid Swimming
Do not swim in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water during the first few weeks of healing. Exposure to bacteria and chemicals can cause infection. Showering is fine, but avoid soaking the tattoo.
