It’s almost impossible to keep a tattoo looking ‘new’ forever, but how long your tat lasts has a lot to do with how you take care of it. So, worried about the fade out? Here are the three most important steps for keeping your ink looking fresh:
Be careful
Treat a new tattoo the same way you would an open wound: For the first two weeks, wash your new ink at least three times a day with an antibacterial solution. Also, stay away from germ hotspots like swimming pools, saunas and the gym.
Let it breathe
DON’T shave or scratch at your tattoo! While the scab may be itchy and you might be tempted to pick at it, just don’t. Plus, avoid covering it in makeup – your inked skin needs to breathe.
Stay out of the sun
Use a high SPF (30 or higher) and reapply religiously. Avoid tattoo-specific sunscreens – they’re no different from the regular stuff.
Looking for some inkspiration? Here’s a collection of celeb tats that are bound to spark a few ideas.
