Tattoo aftercare plays a significant role in how well the skin heals, and organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) emphasize the importance of avoiding behaviors that can disrupt healing. Any reputable tattoo shop in New York with consistently positive feedback on platforms like Trustpilot often shares similar guidance, noting that careful aftercare supports color retention, line precision, and long-term clarity. After getting a tattoo, avoid picking or scratching it, submersion in water, tight clothing, and exposure to direct sunlight. Avoid harsh products, including scented soaps, petroleum jelly, and medicated ointments, unless your artist or dermatologist recommends them.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Fresh tattoos are vulnerable to UV light, which can weaken pigment and dull color during healing. Keeping the area covered with loose clothing helps protect the skin until healing progresses. Once the surface has fully recovered, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher helps preserve the tattoo throughout regular outdoor activity. If you’re visiting piercing shops in New York, make sure to protect both tattoos and piercings from sun exposure during outdoor activities.
Avoid Soaking the Tattoo
The skin needs time to regenerate without prolonged moisture interference. Pools, hot tubs, baths, and the ocean introduce bacteria that can lead to infection. Water immersion also softens scabs, causing them to detach too early and disrupt pigment settling. Brief showers are acceptable, but keeping the area away from direct water pressure helps maintain clean healing. This is especially important after getting a custom tattoo in New York, where your investment in detailed artwork needs proper care.
Do Not Pick or Scratch
Scabs and flaking skin are common, but removing them prematurely can affect how the tattoo sets. Picking or scratching can create uneven patches, irritation, or scarring. Light patting can help if the area becomes itchy, and using approved moisturizers supports comfort without disturbing the surface. When attending a tattoo and piercing event, remember that your new body art requires gentle handling even after professional work is complete.
Avoid Harsh Products
New tattoos require simple, gentle care. Products that contain strong fragrances, alcohol, or exfoliating agents can irritate healing skin. Items such as scented soaps, petroleum jelly, and medicated ointments can trap moisture or clog pores, slowing recovery. Tattoo professionals with strong client reviews typically recommend mild cleansers and lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizers suited for sensitive skin.
Avoid Tight Clothing and Friction
Tight clothing rubbing against the tattooed area can irritate the area and slow the repair process. Breathable, loose fabrics allow airflow and prevent unnecessary friction. This helps the skin maintain its protective barrier while reducing discomfort.
Do Not Ignore Aftercare Instructions
Tattoo artists provide aftercare steps based on experience and knowledge of how skin responds to different types of ink, placement, and size. Their guidance supports safe healing and helps protect the tattoo’s final appearance. Skipping steps such as cleaning, moisturizing, or avoiding sun and water exposure increases the risk of infection, fading, and uneven healing. Tattoo studios with strong customer feedback consistently report better outcomes for clients who closely follow aftercare instructions.
Contact Us
Need to schedule a tattoo or piercing appointment with us? Just fill out our online booking form for a tattoo or piercing request. You can also call us directly at (917) 675-7608 during business hours for a quicker response.
Address: 238 W 14th Street, New York, NY 10011
Business Hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
We aim to respond to all emails within 24–48 hours. If you don’t hear from us, check your spam folder or call us for the fastest reply. We look forward to helping you with your tattoo and piercing needs.
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