Should I Wash My Hands More Often After Getting A Tattoo?

Okay, let’s dive into this tattoo aftercare thing.
Specifically, the hand-washing part.

Ever get a new tattoo and wonder, "Am I obsessively washing my hands too much now?"
Or maybe, "Am I even doing this right to prevent infections?"
I get it.
It’s a legit concern.

Should I Wash My Hands More Often After Getting a Tattoo?

Let’s get straight to it.
The short answer?
Yeah, probably.
But there’s a right way to do it.

Think of your fresh tattoo as an open wound.
Gross, I know.
But it’s true!
It’s susceptible to bacteria and all sorts of nasty stuff.
So, keeping it clean is crucial for proper healing and preventing infection.

Why All the Hand Washing Hype?

Your hands are basically bacteria magnets.
You touch everything all day long.
Door handles, your phone, your dog (no judgement!), you name it.
That means you’re constantly picking up germs.

If you touch your new tattoo with dirty hands, you’re basically inviting an infection.
No bueno.

The Right Way to Wash Your Hands After a Tattoo

Okay, so you know why you need to wash your hands.
But how is just as important.
Here’s my go-to routine:

• Use antibacterial soap: Regular soap is good, but antibacterial is better for this situation.
• Warm water is your friend: Not scalding hot, not ice cold. Just comfy warm.
• Lather up for at least 20 seconds: Think "Happy Birthday" twice.
• Get everywhere: Between your fingers, under your nails, the backs of your hands. Don’t skimp!
• Rinse thoroughly: Make sure all the soap is gone.
• Dry with a clean paper towel: Cloth towels can harbor bacteria. Paper towels are the way to go for now.

When Should I Wash My Hands?

This isn’t a "wash every five minutes" situation.
Here’s when I make sure to wash my hands after getting a tattoo:

• Before applying aftercare ointment: This is non-negotiable. Clean hands, clean tattoo.
• Anytime you touch your tattoo: Resist the urge to pick or scratch! But if you do touch it, wash up immediately.
• After being in public places: Think grocery stores, gyms, public transport.
• After handling pets: I love my fur babies, but they’re germ factories.

Don’t Overdo It!

While washing your hands is super important, you can overdo it.
Washing too frequently can dry out your skin and potentially irritate your tattoo.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot.

Think of it this way: you’re aiming for clean, not sterile.
You don’t need to live in a bubble.

My Tattoo Hand-Washing Horror Story (and How to Avoid It)

I once got a tattoo and thought I was being super diligent about aftercare.
I was washing my hands constantly with harsh soap.
Turns out, I was actually irritating my skin so much that it slowed down the healing process.
My artist told me to chill out and switch to a gentler antibacterial soap.
Lesson learned!

Pro Tip: Follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions.
They know best!

FAQ: Hand Washing and Tattoo Aftercare

• Can I use hand sanitizer instead of washing my hands? Hand sanitizer is okay in a pinch, but washing with soap and water is always preferable.
• What kind of antibacterial soap should I use? A mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap is best. Avoid anything too harsh or drying.
• How often should I clean my tattoo itself? Usually 2-3 times a day is sufficient. Again, follow your artist’s instructions.
• What if my tattoo gets infected? See a doctor immediately! Don’t try to treat it yourself.

So, there you have it.
Washing your hands more often is crucial after getting a tattoo.
Just remember to do it the right way and not overdo it.
Your fresh ink will thank you!
And, seriously, when in doubt, ask your tattoo artist.
They’re the experts.
Don’t hesitate to wash your hands more often after getting a tattoo to avoid infection.