It’s really important to keep your tattoo clean and looking good right when you get out of the salon. Here’s how Oafenhammer and Saigh say to maintain your new tattoo:

Do: Wash it clean with antibacterial soap twice a day, and pat it dry with paper towels.



Don’t: Soak or submerge your tattoo in water for two weeks. Showering is OK, just don’t let it sit under the water for too long.



Do: Use a mild unscented lotion to keep your new tattoo moisturized.



Don’t: Go sunbathing or tanning. Sunlight can really fade a fresh tattoo, so make sure you apply moisturizer with SPF over it when you go out.



Do: Wear loose clothing to let your tattoo breathe while it heals. Tight clothes (and especially bandages) can really irritate a fresh tattoo.



Don’t: Let anyone touch your tattoo right away, or let it come in contact with any dirty surfaces with bacteria.