Just as it's essential to know what soap to use on a tattoo, knowing which ones to steer clear of is equally important. So, what soap not to use on a new tattoo? You'll want to avoid any soaps that are heavy-duty or deodorant soaps, as they can be pretty harsh on the skin.
Any soap labelled as 'antibacterial' may sound good for a fresh tattoo, but beware - some contain alcohol or sodium lauryl sulphate, which can be very drying. On top of that, soaps with strong fragrances or colorants can also be irritating, so it's best to avoid these where possible.
What Soap To Use On a New Tattoo?
When choosing a soap for a new tattoo, it's essential to opt for a gentle, unscented option. Harsh soaps, fragrances, or dyes can irritate the sensitive skin around your new tattoo.
Here are some recommended soap types:
Unscented baby soap: A classic choice for its mild formula.
Castile Soap: Known for its natural ingredients and gentle cleansing properties.
Tattoo-Specific Soap: Some brands offer soaps specifically designed for tattoo aftercare, often containing ingredients that promote healing.
Important Tips:
Avoid antibacterial soaps: These can be too harsh and drying.
Pat dry gently: Rubbing can irritate the skin.
Consult your tattoo artist: They may have specific recommendations based on your tattoo and skin type.
How to Wash a New Tattoo After Unwrapping
Immediately after removing the bandage, wash with lukewarm water and an antibacterial soap. Use only your fingers, and with a gentle circular motion to rub off excess ink and crusties, rinsing as you go. Use a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap to help prevent infection for the first week or until oozing stops to allow your skin to completely heal from the needlework.
Cleaning Your Tattoo After the First Week
Get into a solid tattoo care routine with the right products on hand for every stage of the healing process. After a week or when oozing has stopped, switch to a gentle soap and wash twice daily. Follow these tips to keep your tattoo on the right track:
- Wash your hands first. We don’t know where you’ve been.
- Use lukewarm water, not hot, and get your tattoo wet using your hands.
- Gentle rubbing with your fingers is all the abrasion your new ink needs.
- Pat dry with a paper towel or let air dry to keep things clean.
Should You Clean a New Tattoo Every Day?
If you’re using a Saniderm bandage, you’ll want to avoid cleaning or washing your new tattoo every day. In fact, we recommend leaving your second bandage in place for three to six days—with six days being optimal. Of course, if the skin is irritated or the tattoo is continuing to leak, you will want to remove the bandage and clean the tattoo sooner.
After those initial days, though, as your tattoo heals, and once the tattoo has begun to scab, peel, or flake, you no longer want to leave on the bandage. You will, however, want to ensure the tattooed skin stays clean and moisturized.
Not only will you want to clean your tattoo daily but two to three times each day using lukewarm water and an antibacterial, fragrance-free soap.
