Getting inked ain’t easy: How to take care of your tattoo

Here are a few ways throught which you can ensure that you and your tattoo stay safe and healthy.

Making up your mind, choosing a design, closing your eyes and letting the artist do his work. These are the first few, basic steps of getting a tattoo.

However, the job doesn’t end there. Once you have got the tattoo made, you need to make sure that it doesn’t catch an infection or get burned.

Here are a few ways throught which you can ensure that you and your tattoo stay safe and healthy:

1 Ditch your gym

Working out after ­getting your tattoo done is not a great idea, as the sweating may fade the colour of the recently-inscribed tattoo and may also increase soreness. Also, avoid spa, sauna and Jacuzzi baths for some time, as the heat too may cause problems. Wait for at least three days before you go to the spa or the gym.

A sore tattoo should not be cleaned. Choose a mild antiseptic cleanser and wash your tattoo using it 3-4 times a day to keep infections at bay. Also, as you wouldn’t want ­itchiness to attack your tattoo, don’t forget to moisturise using a light-weight moisturiser. You may also try slathering treated cool aloe vera gel on it for a soothing sensation.

3 Healing balm

Keep a jar of petroleum jelly near you and apply it generously at regular intervals to soothe your freshly-carved tattoo. This will not only provide relief from the soreness, but hydrate the skin and seal it deep-within.

4 UV attack

The harsh sun-rays can cause tanning, and in some cases result into the tattoo fading as well. Try and cover your tattoo at all times when you’re out under the sun. If possible, avoid going out from 10am to 4pm. Also, avoid sunscreen, as it may react with the chemicals of your tattoo and cause allergy.

5 Home heals

Mix olive oil and honey. Wash off when dry. You may also add the juice of neem leaves into the tattoo if you’re encountering rashes or ­an allergy. Neem will disinfect the area, while honey will rejuvenate it.

Now that you know how to take care of them, here are a few really amazing tattoo ideas for you: