Tattoo creams are a fundamental factor in facilitating the adaptation of the body to the design that affects the skin since a tattoo is still a wound. In addition, and as we have explained in previous posts, tattoos need specific and constant care for them to heal well. Hence, the professional tattoo artist recommends some tattoo creams or others, which will depend on the design and skin type of the client. Therefore, as a future tattoo artist, in this post, we are going to provide you with a guide on creams to heal tattoos. Take note.
What are tattoo creams?
In a previous article, we talked about how long it takes for a tattoo to heal and how you should take care of it. These are a few measures that you should take into account so that the healing process is resolved successfully. One of them is to choose the moisturizing cream that best suits you.
Tattoo creams are an ointment that can be applied to tattooed skin to protect it from foreign substances. This barrier helps to moisturize the skin and promote healing. Some of them even have analgesic properties that make cleaning easier. To achieve this effect, they can even leave the tattoo area numb.
Depending on their functions, they will have to be used at one time or another. You should not choose them lightly or let yourself be guided by other tattooed people because you have to keep in mind that each skin and each tattoo are different. In this case, it is preferable to consult the tattoo artist, because he will tell you with certainty how to heal a tattoo. Good training allows these specialists to identify the most appropriate substance in each case, and they will even be able to answer the million-dollar question “How long does it take for a tattoo to heal”. The answer is usually always the same, it depends on the drawing and especially on the skin.
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Is any moisturizing cream good for a tattoo?
No, not just any tattoo moisturizer will do. As you can probably imagine, skin care after getting a tattoo has to be specific and careful, and choosing just any product can be a mistake.
If the product is not properly considered, it can deteriorate the quality of the tattoo and negatively affect the health of our skin. It is always necessary to opt for specific products for the aftercare of the tattoo, which keep the skin hydrated and contribute to healing.
When to start applying cream to a tattoo?
Generally, you should apply cream to a tattoo for the first 10 or 12 days. After this time, the tattooed person can start using normal moisturizing creams, although, of course, taking certain precautions. In this regard, the dermatological product used should not contain fragrances, dyes, or alcohol, in order to ensure maximum skin care.
What effect do tattoo creams have?
The results of the creams depend on the product since each one has positive effects, but also secondary ones. A professional is able to discern for each person which of them is most advisable. You have to take into account the skin, its hydration, the type of tattoo, possible allergic reactions, and pain resistance. Let’s look at some of the most common tattoo creams on the market.
Bepanthol
This is by far the most popular and widely used among tattoo enthusiasts. It is a lipid substance that acts by forming a protective layer over the tattoo area. This way, you avoid future irritations, especially from contact with external agents.
Bepanthol allows you to hydrate the skin, preventing water loss that can affect healing. Don’t forget to ask your tattoo artist if you may suffer an allergic reaction when applying it or how long you should apply Bepanthol on a tattoo. Generally, it is between 1 and 2 weeks, but it can vary depending on each case.
Echysee
This cream was already known among piercing specialists, although recently another version specifically for tattoos has started to be marketed. This promotes healing and rarely causes side effects.
Bacitracin
The lotion is more focused on the treatment of bruises that may appear during the tattooing of the skin. This ointment is famous for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effect, a real ally against pain. Another outstanding feature is that it helps to settle the colors in tattoos with different shades.
Betaine
Betacaine, also known as EMLA, is a type of painkiller that will reduce pain considerably. It contains lidocaine, a component that is also used to prevent throat irritation.
Thanks to this product, the tattooing and healing process will be less painful. It is usually used just before tattooing. It can also be applied while the drawing is being done, although its effects take about 10 minutes to appear.
How to use tattoo cream?
Depending on the creams, we have seen that some can be used even while tattooing. However, not all are applied in this way. Therefore, we are going to show you the necessary process that you must carry out from moments before the start until healing and during the care of your tattoo.
We assume that the tattooed person complies with all hygiene and anti-contagion measures. After finishing, the tattoo artist must cover the tattoo with a transparent sheet. This barrier against infection must be removed after about six to eight hours so that the skin can breathe.
First days
Initially, it is advisable to wash the area about three times a day with specialized soaps and creams. This will reduce the chance of unwanted or infected scabs and scars appearing.
Then, gently rub the tattoo with a lint-free tissue. If you prefer, you can also use paper, but be very careful. Later, you can start using the most suitable cream or ointment.
As a general rule, creams are usually applied a couple of days later. Remember that treatments should always be done with warm drinking water, never with water that is not suitable for consumption.
When you reach the seventh day, you can stop applying creams, as long as your skin feels sufficiently moisturized. If you have any doubts, consult a professional tattoo artist.
Aftercare after tattoo
Once the tattoo has healed, you can continue using the creams mentioned above or use other more specific ones. The latter is especially recommended for setting colored tattoos.
Depending on the skin, you can maintain or introduce other types of creams in the long term. Some skin types require very moisturizing products, which must have specific components to repair the skin after tattooing. With the appropriate treatment, your tattooed skin will end up having characteristics similar to the rest of the epidermis.
On the other hand, the sun is also an element to avoid. For a few months, it is advisable to cover all your tattoos so that the rays do not hit them directly. Once they are ready for longer exposure, you should opt for sun creams. Remember that these products will provide you with the most appropriate hydration and protection.
In conclusion, tattoo creams allow you to keep your skin healthy, fully hydrated, and resistant to irritation or possible infections. In this way, you will ensure that the effects of a tattoo on your skin are as harmless as possible.
If you have just gotten a tattoo, don’t skimp on giving your skin and tattoo the attention they deserve to keep them in optimal condition. Remember that a professional will be your best ally when it comes to choosing the product that best suits your skin and its needs.
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A tattoo artist is a professional who is not only responsible for designing and carrying out the tattoo but also advises and warns about good practices for caring for the skin in the subsequent process. Therefore, among the subjects that a tattoo artist must learn are the care and application of the appropriate products.
Would you like to learn more about this field? You can train with the specialization that we offer you at the Des Arts School. Find out everything that our program will offer you!
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