BASIC TATTOO SAFETY GUIDELINES

Since a permanent tattoo is made by using needles and pigments, make sure that all safety precautions are in place. No matter how tempting it may sound, never ever tattoo yourself or allow a friend to do the tattooing. If you don’t have the money to spend, better save up first to be able to go to a reputable artist.

Your tattoo artist should adhere to all regulation and licensing standards in your area. All equipment needs to be properly sanitized and a fresh pair of gloves should be worn each time. Also, be aware that the FDA is not regulating the use of tattoo pigments. Speak to your tattoo artist about the safety of the pigments that they use and the complications, if any. Any ointment, ink, or other items should not be returned to the main container after it has been taken out for use on a client. New and sterile needles must be used each time.

No matter how big or small your tattoo is, you need to practice proper hygiene. For the first 24 hours, do not remove the bandage. The tattoo is very vulnerable to infection so be extra careful. When you are ready to wash the area, stay away from harsh soaps. After gentle cleansing, pat the area dry using a soft clean towel or a paper towel. Never rub the tattooed part. Follow this up with an tattoo aftercare cream specifically made for tattoos.

Some scabbing and peeling may occur after a couple of days. Do not pick or scratch the area. If it is peeling, put an aftercare lotion and leave it alone. Protect your new tattoo by applying a tattoo cream. Lanolin and petroleum jelly are inexpensive but can cause allergic reactions in a lot of people. Lanolin comes from sheep’s wool while petroleum jelly is a byproduct of the distillation of petroleum. Both lanolin and petroleum jelly are found in Bepanthen cream. Bepanthen cream is actually a diaper rash cream which is sometimes being recommended by most artists who unaware of the adverse effects especially when applied on wounds or a fresh tattoo.