Infection is especially a danger when a tattoo is fresh. It's such a risk that, for some, it's recommended they should take some time out from work. This is for professions where open wounds aren't allowed, such as the catering industry, and where the skin may be exposed to the elements, even if covered well.
Protect your tattoo with a cover if you're working in a dirty/greasy/dusty environment, but preferably this does need to be left to breathe so taking a few days off work would be best!
If you work in a dirty environment or outdoors, you might want to consider wrapping your tattoo for the first week. Any dirt or bacteria that comes into contact with your tattoo could cause an infection. If you work in a clean environment, such as an office, you probably do not need to wrap your tattoo.
Since you're only human, some degree of sweating is to be expected. However, excessive sweating is not good during the first weeks after getting a new tattoo. As such, it's best to avoid activities that might make you too sweaty, at least for a couple of weeks.
You can wrap your tattoo in cling wrap for the first few days when you are working. Wear long sleeves, long pants to cover your tattoo and protect it from dirt and sun. When you get home, lightly wash the tattoo area. Apply more tattoo cream.
Drunken behaviour could ruin your new tattoo
You need to be aware of keeping your tattoo clean and dry while it is fresh, so a night out might not be the best option. It's generally recommended that you wait at least 48 hours after your new tattoo before you start drinking alcohol again.
It's recommended you wait at least 24 hours before showering after getting a new tattoo. This allows the tattooed area to begin the healing process and reduces the risk of infection.
You do not need to re-bandage the tattoo unless you work or play in a dirty environment. If this is the case, use clean, dry gauze to cover the tattoo.
Your first night sleeping, your artist might recommend you re-wrap the tattoo with plastic wrap (like Saran Wrap) to sleep without the tattoo sticking to your sheets. This is generally for larger or solid-color tattoos. If your artist did not recommend re-wrapping, just let the tattoo stay exposed to air overnight.
The outer layers of your skin will heal in about two to four weeks, while the deeper layers where the ink sits will take about 4 months to heal.
Most professionals say you can generally expect tattoos to heal in two weeks, but it's usually safe to work out 48 hours after getting a tattoo or 1–2 days after laser tattoo removal. Make sure you're wearing comfortable clothes, following aftercare instructions, and avoiding overexertion.
Pressure can cause irritation and disrupt the healing process. Instead, try sleeping on your back or on the side opposite the tattoo!
You can shower 3-4 hours after getting a tattoo, if you have a Saniderm bandage on, however, if you have a plastic wrap wait 24 hours to unwrap your tattoo and shower. In either case, shower in cold or lukewarm water and avoid prolonged soaking or submerging your tattoo in water for 3-4 weeks.
Once the bandage has been removed after 3-5 days, you can shower at any time you want, following some precautions. Some old-school bandages or cling wrap as is traditionally used will require a waiting period of up to 12 hours until you can get in the shower. Be sure to make note of this with your tattoo artist.
No alcohol 24 hours before a tattoo
There are good reasons why you should not drink alcohol before your tattoo appointment. Alcohol dilutes your blood and reduces your ability to make decisions, and because alcohol is metabolised slowly by the body, it takes time to be eluted and absorbed.
Even though the average tattoo needle is only poked ⅛ of an inch into the skin, some tattoo ink contains heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and lead. These ingredients can pose a threat to your developing baby, particularly in the first trimester when the main organs are developing.
Avoid sleeping directly on your tattoo and using any slept-on sheets. Previously-used bath or face towels should also never touch or go near a fresh tattoo. Don't drink any alcohol for at least 48-72 after (and before) getting a tattoo. Alcohol thins your blood, which can lead to excess bleeding.
If wearing tight-fitting clothes is your style, you'll have to give it up for the next couple of weeks. Instead, wear loose-fitting clothes that are comfortable to cover new tattoos fully. Tight clothes will constantly rub against your tattoo, potentially damaging any new protective layer your skin has grown.
Avoid Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and the Ocean
Avoid swimming—whether in a pool, lake, or the ocean—and submerging your tattoo in a bath or hot tub for two to three weeks, as doing so may cause serious damage.
After the first day, the tattooed area may appear red, swollen, or even bleed a little. This is completely normal.
You may also see redness, swelling, and some mild bleeding. DAYS 3-14 (or until healed): After the first 2-3 days, your tattoo should begin to feel dry and tight.