Opinions on tattoos are varied. Some people love them – on other people, some want them on their own bodies, and some don't like them at all. If you're one of the people who wants to have a tattoo, you have to understand that it won't just change how you look. It can also be dangerous if you don't care for it the right way.
Follow Your Tattoo Artist's Instructions
When it comes to how to care for a new tattoo, there are several schools of thought. There is no 'right' and 'wrong' way, however, because there are several options that you can use. If you've gotten tattoos before you probably have an aftercare routine that you feel the most comfortable with. If you're new to getting inked, though, you'll want to make sure that you pay close attention to what your artists says to do.
A man or woman covered in ink, as most tattoo artists are, may not look like what you think of when you hear the word 'professional,' but that's exactly what tattoo artists are. They are professionals at their chosen trade, and you should remember that the instructions that they give you are designed to speed the healing of your tattoo, avoid infection, and give you the best result possible.
Be Honest With Your Tattoo Artist
If you want your tattoo to heal properly, there is more to aftercare than just following instructions -- and some of it begins before the tattoo needle ever touches your skin. Reputable shops require you to fill out an information form with name, address, and other information. This form also gives a list of medical conditions and asks if you have any of them. Don't lie on this form. There is a reason that these questions are asked, because having any of these problems can affect the safety of getting a tattoo.
Most of them won't stop you from getting one, so there's no reason to lie. Checking with your doctor beforehand is a good idea, but once he or she okays your ink, there's no reason to avoid being honest on the form. The shop will generally not turn someone away for a medical condition -- they only want to be informed and make sure that you understand the risk you're taking.
Medical conditions, depending on their type and severity, may change the way you care for your new tattoo. It's much better to know that before you get tattooed than to find out later, after you've already experienced a problem. For example, if you don't heal well or have a bigger risk of infection your artist may recommend using an antibiotic cream on your new tattoo for a few days, as opposed to just washing it.
Some artists recommend an antibiotic cream no matter what. Some recommend certain lotions or specific tattoo aftercare products instead. As long as you are upfront about your medical condition, follow any doctor's advice that you were given, and follow the aftercare instructions of your tattoo artist, your new tattoo should heal up just fine and you'll be ready to show it off to the world.
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