Is it Safe to Shower After a Tattoo?

Receiving a new tattoo can be one of the most exciting experiences in life.  After you get it, maintain and care for it as best as possible.

One thing to keep in mind is that your tattoo is an open wound and should remain dry.  You are showering too soon after application could disrupt this process and put you at greater risk for infection.

Avoid Hot Water

After a tattoo, you can shower but avoid hot water.  Your new tattoo is an open wound and exposure to warm water in the shower.  Your new tattoo can cause significant irritation or dehydration.

Suppose your Tattoo artist utilized Saniderm bandages to protect the skin when showering.  These should remain on.  If you remove the bandage, thoroughly dry it with a towel before re-wrapping.

Additionally, it would help to wait at least two weeks before submerging your tattoo in water, such as swimming.  You have baths, hot tubs, or pools.  Doing so exposes the open wound to harmful bacteria, which could lead to infections.

Avoid Long Showers

If you have a Tattoo, proper aftercare is essential to avoid infection, fading, and scarring.  One essential component of that process is showering regularly.

First and foremost, be mindful not to shower for too long.  Hot water can cause your new tattoo to bleed and become infected.

Furthermore, avoid using soaps or scrubbers that could irritate your tattoo.

It is also essential to keep the temperature of the water cool or lukewarm when bathing.  Doing so prevents skin swell and speeds up healing time.

Once you shower, pat your tattoo dry and apply a thin layer of lotion or ointment.  For best results, use an alcohol-free product with no scent to moisturize it.

Avoid Submerging the Tattoo

Your tattoo is like an open wound.  So showering it in water can expose it to bacteria that could lead to infection.  It could cause swelling, fevers, chills, and even hospitalization if the infection is severe.

Before submerging your tattoo in water – such as baths, pools, hot tubs, or oceans- you should wait a few weeks.  It is especially true if the design has been wrapped in non-waterproof bandages.

Apply a little layer of Vaseline on your new tattoo before showering.  Rinse with Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap in lukewarm water once it dries.

You should also avoid swimming while your tattoo heals.  It usually takes 3-4 weeks.  Doing this prevents exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and other chemicals in pool or ocean waters.  It could alter the color and accelerate fading or discoloration.

Avoid Soaking

After 24–48 hours, don’t submerge your tattoo.  Doing so could delay healing time significantly and result in permanent color distortion or abnormal scarring.

To prevent this:

Use a mild, fragrance-free soap (Dove, Dial, or Neutrogena).

Only use your hand to gently scrub excess blood, ointment, ink, and plasma from your tattoo.

Never scrub with a washcloth or loofah, as these can irritate skin and harbor bacteria.

After washing, pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel or paper towel.  Apply Aquaphor or A & D unscented moisturizing ointment to moisturize the region and avoid premature drying.