Art on Skin: The Ultimate Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Getting a new tattoo can be an exciting experience - a chance to express yourself in a unique and permanent way. However, the journey doesn't end when you leave the tattoo studio. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your new ink heals well and retains its beauty for years to come.
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Daily Care
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Healing
Immediate Aftercare: The First 48 Hours
Keep it Covered
Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap. This protects it from bacteria and prevents it from rubbing against your clothing. Leave the covering on for the first few hours, as advised by your tattoo artist, before gently removing it to clean the area.
Clean Gently
After removing the cover, it's time for the first clean. Wash your hands and then wash your tattoo using a YAYO tattoo soap. This is a liquid soap and shower gel with activated charcoal to remove any potential nasties you may have picked up. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry.
Apply Aftercare Product
Once the tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of your favourite YAYO tattoo butter to your new tattoo. These products are designed to moisturise and protect your tattoo without clogging pores. Avoid heavy applications; a little goes a long way.
Daily Care Routine
Regular Cleaning
Repeat the cleaning process daily using YAYO tattoo soap. Gently wash your tattoo with clean hands, pat dry, and allow it to breathe for a few minutes before applying aftercare.
Moisturize Consistently
Apply a thin layer of YAYO tattoo butter whenever the previous layer has fully soaked in, leaving your tattoo dry to the touch. Remember to apply another thin layer whenever the previous layer has soaked in fully.
Avoid Irritation
Keep your tattoo away from direct sunlight, swimming pools, and tight clothing. Don't scratch or pick at any scabs that form - this is a natural part of the healing process.
Healing Period: 2-4 Weeks
Continue the Routine
Repeat the cleaning and aftercare steps daily for a period of 2 to 4 weeks, or until you and your artist are happy that your new tattoo is healed. Consistency is key to achieving the best results.
Monitor Your Progress
Watch for signs of proper healing: reduced redness, no excessive swelling, and natural peeling. If you notice any unusual symptoms like excessive pain, pus, or spreading redness, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional.
Long-term Care
Once healed, protect your investment by using sunscreen on your tattoo when exposed to sunlight. Continue moisturizing regularly with YAYO tattoo butter to keep your ink vibrant and your skin healthy.
How to Use YAYO Guard
YAYO Guard is a protective product which is waterproof but permeable on the inside to allow your skin to naturally perspire. Before applying YAYO Guard, ensure you have thoroughly washed your hands and are using clean surgical gloves.
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Allow Natural Bleeding
Allow your tattoo to bleed for around 5 to 10 minutes. This is your body trying to clean the wound naturally from within. Your blood is full of white blood cells to aid the reduction of infection.
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Clean the Tattoo Area
Gently wash your new tattoo with YAYO soap (be sure to include an area up to 4cm around the tattoo) followed by cleaning the area with YAYO Pitch to further reduce the risk of infection. Pat the area dry with a clean, absorbent, single use towel.
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Apply Aftercare (Optional)
At this stage you may apply a thin layer of your preferred YAYO aftercare to the tattoo to speed up healing of the epidermis (optional). Ensure that you only apply this to the tattoo; the skin area around the tattoo will be needed for the hypoallergenic adhesive to bond to.
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Apply YAYO Guard Film
Apply the film with the protective side facing down towards the tattoo (do this by peeling off the protective paper layer). Press down the edges on to the skin, ensuring that you leave at least a 2.5cm (0.98 inch) margin around the tattoo then peel away the back cover. Wear YAYO Guard for up to 5 days depending on how much your tattoo weeps.
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Removal Instructions
Keeping the skin cool (i.e. at a normal body temperature, rather than removing in the shower or hot bath) gently peel each corner of the film layer back towards the centre ensuring that you remain parallel to the skin surface. The adhesive may be difficult to remove, but whatever you do do NOT rip off the guard. Patience is key here. If you happen to be left with adhesive residue on your tattoo after removal, don't panic. This happens a lot when the product is left on the skin for too long.
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Long-Term Care: Preserving Your Tattoo
After your tattoo has fully healed, you'll want to keep it looking sharp and vibrant for as long as possible.
Sun Protection
Protect your ink from UV damage...
Exposure to UV rays can cause your tattoo to fade or be damaged over time. When going out in the sun, cover your tattoo or use a high-SPF suncream to protect it. Reapply suncream regularly if you're spending a lot of time outdoors.
Stay Moisturised
Keep your skin hydrated for vibrant ink...
Healthy skin means a good-looking tattoo. Keep your skin moisturised daily to maintain the vibrancy of your tattoo design. Choose a YAYO tattoo butter that's right for your skin type and apply it to your tattooed area regularly.
Healthy Habits
Your lifestyle affects your tattoo...
Your skin is a reflection of your overall health. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and not smoking can all contribute to keeping your skin—and your tattoo—in top condition.
When to See a Doctor
While infections are rare when proper aftercare is followed, they can happen. If you notice any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, foul odour, or pus, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Better safe than sorry.