Work out your newly tattooed body part, working out other body parts is ok, as long as the tattoo isn’t stressed. Return with caution to full workout when all the scabbing is gone- probably between 1-2 weeks.
Swim in fresh or chlorinated water.
Expose to direct sunlight.
Pick scabs or scratch at the healing tattoo.
Touch your fresh tattoo in public, and then touch public items, or vice versa.
To Be Expected
The above guidelines should be followed until the tattoo is completely healed, which will be within 4-8 weeks.
Most healing will take place within the first week or two.
Your fresh tattoo will be warm to the touch and painful for a couple days following application.
Some bruising will be incurred, especially in the areas of the chest, collarbone, armpit, upper shoulder, inner bicep, etc- these will heal with time.
Longer healing times will occur in areas that bend alot, have thin skin, or do not tattoo well, such as the inner and outer elbow, armpit, etc.
Swelling will be present for a few days, and sometimes be impressive, especially at the elbow, ankle, etc. Ibuprofen or Naproxen relieves swelling.
Most tattoos will not heal perfectly, inconsistencies will emerge as we are dealing with living tissue and an art that is alive!
Areas Of Concern
See a doctor or a dermatologist in the rare occurrence of infection, which would likely be caused by a client’s unclean work or home environment.
Infection, which is very rare, would be indicated by very swollen, very red skin, with deep wounds that ooze yellowish or greenish discharge.
An allergic reaction, also rare, can occur as a result of the tattoo process. A dermatologist would be recommended.
An allergic reaction is usually indicated by excessive redness, a breakout of pimples or bumps on or around the fresh tattoo.
In the case of allergic reaction, immediately discontinue use of lotion or ointment being used. This is the most likely cause of the reaction.
Other causes of allergic reaction are: new laundry detergent, a new soap or personal hygiene product, exposure to environmental allergens.
As Your Tattoo Ages
All tattooing will spread and blur over the years.
Your tattoo will be faded with exposure to sun over time. I do not recommend sunblock, which is full of unpronounceable chemicals. Keep tattoo covered with clothing if increasing its longevity is a concern.
Your tattoo may temporarily raise in reaction to seasonal allergies or insect bites.
Finally, your tattoo may raise testosterone in males and femininity in females, and instill desire for you in the opposite sex!
