What Soap Should I Wash My Tattoo With?

Disregard any advice from friends and family. We are licensed professionals and the proper healing of your new tattoo is very important to us. Your bandage should be worn for 1 to 2 hours. Thoroughly wash your hands and dry them with a paper towel before removing the bandage.

If you find that the bandage is stuck to your tattoo, try running the bandage under water. You DO NOT however, want to soak your fresh tattoo in ANY water to include but not limited to bathtubs, swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and ponds.

These all have chemicals, dirt, and all kinds of nasties that can cause infection. Showers are fine-just NO SOAKING! Using a mild, fragrance-free soap (Dove, Dial, and Neutrogena); gently wash all excess blood, ointment, ink, and plasma from your tattoo.

Only use your hand – DO NOT use a washcloth or loofah as they can harbor bacteria. If you are not sure which soap to use, read the ingredients. If alcohol is listed as one of the first few ingredients, DO NOT USE IT.

Soap with fragrance and alcohol will burn and can over-dry the skin. After washing the tattoo, pat it dry with a paper towel. DO NOT use a hand or bath towel. Towels can harbor bacteria. DO NOT re-bandage your tattoo. It needs to “breathe” and get air to heal properly.

Wash your tattoo once or twice a day for the duration of the healing time. Too much washing can wash away your body’s natural bacteria which helps your skin to heal. Washing the tattoo in the morning and at night before you go to bed is sufficient.

For the first day, the tattoo will “ooze” clear plasma. This is completely normal. There is NO NEED to use any ointment on your tattoo. Most ointments are for fighting infection and are contributing to antibiotic resistance. Additionally, ointments can “suffocate” the tattoo by not letting enough air get to it which can cause excessive scabbing.

Ointments also lead to higher rates of dermatitis in tattoos;
Before going to bed, wash your hands and wash your tattoo;
Sleep in something old (yet clean) to cover the area that was tattooed;
Most tattoos will ooze clear plasma the first night and this can stain and stick to clothing and sheets;

By the second or third day, your tattoo will start to dry out. It will start to flake like a sun burn. You will see large black and colored flakes coming off, especially in the shower. This is completely normal. DO NOT under any circumstances, pick or “help” these flakes come off.

Doing so will result in the loss of line and color in your tattoo as well as cause scarring;
And YES, we can tell when someone has picked at their tattoo! In addition, DO NOT wear tight clothing that may rub the tattoo;

When your tattoo starts to flake and peel, you may then start using 1or 2 drops of fragrance-free hand lotion. Keri, and Curel are both good choices. Rub the lotion in completely or blot excess off with a paper towel. If you unsure if the lotion you have at home will work, read the label.

If alcohol is near the top of the list of ingredients, then DO NOT USE IT. You may also do a spot test if you are unsure. Rub just a small drop into a small section of the tattoo. If it starts to burn or sting in a couple of minutes, then wash it off immediately and discontinue using it.

Continue to use the above steps until your tattoo is completely healed. Healing time varies with each individual and the area that was tattooed. Generally, tattoos are fully healed in two to three weeks. During the healing process, DO NOT use anything on your tattoo that you wouldn’t use on any other wound or abrasion.

This includes oils, glitter, sun block, etc. If you have special circumstances that require you to alter our advised healing method, please ask the artist or staff. An example would be someone that works in an industry where their fresh tattoo might be exposed to dirt, germs, etc.

while it is healing.

Contents

1 What soap is best for new tattoos?
- 1.1 What Antibacterial soap is best for tattoos?
  - 1.1.1 Can I use regular soap on my tattoo?
- 1.2 What kind of soap is used for tattoos?
  - 1.2.1 Is Dove soap OK for tattoos?
2 How soon can I shower after a tattoo?
3 Can you use antibacterial hand soap on a tattoo?

What soap is best for new tattoos?

The All-Around Best Tattoo Soap – Across the board, “Dial Gold is the classic go-to,” says Bryce. Every single piercer or tattooer I’ve ever met has recommended this bathroom staple as the all-around best tattoo cleanser. It’s inexpensive and ultimately, one of the most effective soaps on the market for making sure your tattoo stays clean and free of infection.

Something to keep in mind for folks with more sensitive skin is that while this soap is pretty much the holy grail of tattoo cleansers, it’s also not fragrance-free. If you’re prone to irritation from scented products, it might be best to steer clear of this fan-favorite and opt for something completely unscented, like the option below.

“Dial is the standard for keeping bacteria and germs at bay. I use it every day and it does not dry out my skin,” one Amazon reviewer commented. Another wrote, “This hand soap has all the right qualities: not excessively scented, rinses clean, no lotion feel, and economical to use.

What Antibacterial soap is best for tattoos?

Can I use regular soap on my tattoo?

How often should I clean my tattoo? What kind of soap should I use? – The tattoo should be thoroughly cleaned immediately after removing the bandage, and cleaned daily from there on out. We recommend cleaning it multiple times on the first day. Pat the tattoo dry (don’t rub it) with a lint-free cloth or paper towel to avoid irritation, and let the tattoo air out for 20-30 minutes before applying moisturizer. We recommend using a gentle, liquid antibacterial soap, such as Dial Antibacterial Soap , though other hand or body soaps can be used as long as they are thoroughly rinsed from the tattoo. You want to avoid excess absorption of water by the tattoo, so washings should be efficient and deliberate to minimize time. You can use antibacterial soap for the first 3-5 days and then regular soap or body wash is fine.

What kind of soap is used for tattoos?

Is Dove soap OK for tattoos?

If you find that the bandage is stuck to your tattoo, try running the bandage under water. You DO NOT however, want to soak your fresh tattoo in ANY water to include but not limited to bathtubs, swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and ponds.

Wash your tattoo once or twice a day for the duration of the healing time. Too much washing can wash away your body’s natural bacteria which helps your skin to heal. Washing the tattoo in the morning and at night before you go to bed is sufficient.

You might be interested: How To Prepare To Get A Tattoo?

Ointments also lead to higher rates of dermatitis in tattoos. Before going to bed, wash your hands and wash your tattoo. Sleep in something old (yet clean) to cover the area that was tattooed. Most tattoos will ooze clear plasma the first night and this can stain and stick to clothing and sheets.

Doing so will result in the loss of line and color in your tattoo as well as cause scarring;
And YES, we can tell when someone has picked at their tattoo! In addition, DO NOT wear tight clothing that may rub the tattoo;

If alcohol is near the top of the list of ingredients, then DO NOT USE IT. You may also do a spot test if you are unsure. Rub just a small drop into a small section of the tattoo. If it starts to burn or sting in a couple of minutes, then wash it off immediately and discontinue using it.

This includes oils, glitter, sun block, etc. If you have special circumstances that require you to alter our advised healing method, please ask the artist or staff. An example would be someone that works in an industry where their fresh tattoo might be exposed to dirt, germs, etc.

while it is healing.

How soon can I shower after a tattoo?

Download Article Download Article You have a new tattoo, and you love it! Now you need to take proper care of it to keep your skin healthy and your tattoo looking nice. Because of the way the ink is applied, a fresh tattoo is an open wound, and you must take care to allow it to heal properly. Start by taking off the bandage the tattoo artist put on, and then clean your tattoo. You’ll need to follow the artist’s instructions for cleaning your tattoo 3 times a day for at least 2 weeks.

1 Listen to the tattoo artist about when to take off your bandage. Tattoos heal at different speeds, depending on things like your skin sensitivity and how big or deep the tattoo is. Your tattoo artist will tell you how long you should keep your bandage over your tattoo. [2]
- If they don’t tell you, ask them.
- When the artist finishes your tattoo, they will wash it off and treat it with an antiseptic. They will then apply a bandage to your tattoo, which will help keep bacteria away from it.
2 Wait 2-3 hours to take off the bandage if you’re not given a time period. If you forget to ask or can’t get a hold of the tattoo artist, a good waiting period is 2-3 hours. If your tattoo is really large, you can wait up to 6 hours. That gives your tattoo time to get over the initial shock before you shower.
- Be sure to remove the bandage within the first day, as bacteria can breed in the moist environment underneath it. [3]
3 Remove the bandage applied by the tattoo artist before showering. Before touching the bandage, scrub your hands thoroughly. Wash them in warm water with soap for at least 20 seconds. Then, you can peel back the bandage that’s covering your tattoo. [4]
- Don’t try to shower with the bandage in place. The water will soak into the bandage, and the bandage will hold it against your tattoo, which can introduce bacteria to it.
4 Take the bandage off in the shower if it’s sticking to your tattoo. Sometimes, the bandage will stick to the tattoo, which can be painful when you try to take it off. Run the bandage under indirect, warm water in the shower, which will help loosen the adhesive. Then move on to cleaning up your tattoo.

1 Wait up to 24 hours to shower. Talk to your tattoo artist about how long it’s best to wait. Generally, though, you can shower within the first 24 hours after getting your new ink.
- Waiting 2 days gives your skin more time to form a barrier over the tattoo. [5]
2 Use lukewarm water. Hot water can make your tattoo sting, so it’s best to avoid it. Hot water too soon after getting a tattoo can also make you lose color from your tattoo, as it opens your pores, so it’s best to avoid it. [6]
- Try running cold water on the tattoo for 30 seconds at the end of your shower to tighten your pores.
3 Turn the spray to gentle or keep your tattoo out of the spray. Don’t use a hard spray on your tattoo, as it can irritate it. If you only have a showerhead with a heavy spray, let the water run over the tattoo indirectly.
- You can also use a clean cup or your hand to pour a gentle stream of water over your tattoo.
EXPERT TIP Burak Moreno is a Professional Tattoo Artist with over 10 years of experience. Burak is based in New York City and is a tattoo artist for Fleur Noire Tattoo Parlour in Brooklyn. Born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, he has worked as a tattoo artist throughout Europe. He works on many different styles but mostly does bold lines and strong color. Burak Moreno Tattoo Artist Keep your shower short, as well. When you first have a new tattoo, don’t take very long or very hot showers, and don’t take baths while it’s healing.
4 Use your hands to apply a mild, unscented soap to your tattoo. Any mild soap will do, including bar soap or liquid hand soap. You can use antibacterial soap if you prefer. Lather the soap in your hands, then apply it to the tattoo. [7]
- Just rub it in gently with your fingers. Avoid using loofahs and sponges until the tattoo heals, as they can carry bacteria.
- Your tattoo will likely have dried blood and other debris on it, which you need to remove. However, you should not scrub it, as that can irritate it.
5 Rinse the tattoo off gently with water. Once you rub the soap into your tattoo, pour water over it to rinse the soap off. If you need to, use your fingers to gently rub the soap off under the water. [8]
- Hop out of the shower quickly. When in the shower, your tattoo comes in contact with steam, water, and soap. That can be painful and irritating for your tattoo, so avoid staying in the shower too long. Also, try to keep your tattoo out from under running water when washing the rest of your body for at least a week. [9]
6 Pat the tattoo dry with a clean, soft towel. Don’t rub the tattoo with the towel, as that could irritate it. Simply dab at the tattoo gently, until it’s dry. You may notice a little bit of blood, which is fine. [10]
- You can use paper towels if you don’t have a newly cleaned towel on hand or if your usual bath towel leaves fibers on your skin. Dirty towels can introduce bacteria.

1 Wash your tattoo 3 times a day for the first week to keep it clean. While your tattoo is healing, you need to practice good hygiene to keep it from getting infected. Wash with a mild, unscented soap, and use your fingers to rub it in. Rinse it off gently with water. [11]
- Pat it dry with a clean towel.
2 Use a moisturizing ointment on your tattoo once it’s dry. Pick one that’s scent-free and preferably hypoallergenic so it won’t irritate your tattoo. Gently rub it in with clean hands. [12]
- Start with an ointment. You can try a lotion after a week or so.
3 Let your tattoo breathe by leaving the bandage off. Don’t re-bandage your tattoo once you’ve applied the moisturizer. You only need to keep a bandage on for the first day. After that, it’s better to let your tattoo get fresh air. [13]
4 Avoid getting in the tub while your tattoo is healing. Sitting a tub full of water can introduce bacteria to your tattoo. Stick to showers instead, which are less likely to introduce bacteria. [14]
5 Skip the swimming pool and lakes. Large bodies of water are teeming with bacteria, and you don’t want those bacteria getting in your tattoo. Wait until your tattoo is completely healed before you go swimming. [15]
- Healing can take 45 days to 6 months, depending on the size and depth of your tattoo. [16]
- You should also avoid going to the gym so that sweat and bacteria don’t build up on your skin.

Add New Question

Question I just got a finger tattoo, how can I shower with that? Kiara Hamed is a Tattoo Artist based in Dallas, Texas. She has over nine years of tattoo designing experience. She received her Tattoo Artist Certification in 2010 and a BS in Computer Information Systems from Clark University Atlanta in 2013. Tattoo Artist Expert Answer You can shower regularly; just be careful. Finger tattoos are hard because they get wet so often
Question Will my tattoo peel if I wash it on the second day after getting it done? Kiara Hamed is a Tattoo Artist based in Dallas, Texas. She has over nine years of tattoo designing experience. She received her Tattoo Artist Certification in 2010 and a BS in Computer Information Systems from Clark University Atlanta in 2013. Tattoo Artist Expert Answer The tattoo shouldn’t peel on the second day. If you see peeling, it could be your ink coming out.

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If a bath is the only way you are able to wash yourself, take as brief a bath as possible and wash your tattoo afterward.
Don’t soak the tattoo in the ointment. Put it on lightly so your tattoo is still able to breathe.

Avoid letting your tattoo soak in water until it heals.

What can I use if I don’t have unscented soap for my tattoo?

Remove bandage 2-3 hours after your tattoo is complete.

Wash your hands with soap and warm to hot water. Now wash your new tattoo with warm to hot water and a mild, unscented soap. Wash gently using only your hands and soapy water. Make sure to wash off any residual blood or plasma, ink, and ointment from the entire area around the tattoo. Dr. Bronner’s mild soap or any unscented mild soap will work.
Gently pat dry with a clean towel or a paper towel.
Apply a very thin layer of unscented lotion, or an even thinner layer of Aquaphor to the entire tattoo. Gently rub product into skin thoroughly. Mild unscented lotions like Aveeno, Lubriderm, Eucerin, etc. are appropriate; nothing medicated. For a baseball sized tattoo, a pea sized drop of lotion should suffice.
Repeat twice a day for about two weeks, until it looks like normal skin.
Wear gentle or loose fitting clothing if your tattoo is in a location impacted by clothing, shoes, or bra-straps. BE GENTLE.

Brand new tattoos may be sensitive, red, and swollen. The surrounding area may even show mild bruising. This is normal. Healing tattoos feel sometimes like a healing sunburn. For the first few days, your tattoo may “weep” clear or colored fluid. This is also normal. You may want to wash your tattoo a few additional times during the first few days.

Antibacterial soap is not necessary. Be careful not to over-do the lotion. As your tattoo is healing, your skin will shed or peel a layer of dead cells in the color and location of each part of the tattoo.

This is normal. Let any peeling skin fall off naturally. Do not pick at any flaking skin, it may not be healed underneath. While your tattoo is healing, avoid direct contact with sunlight. Also, do not soak your tattoo in water, i. baths, swimming pools, the ocean, etc.

until the tattoo is fully healed. This will be generally between 10-20 days, or more for larger or extensive amounts of tattooing. Healed tattoos should be protected from excessive sunlight. Tanning or sunbathing and tattoos don’t mix.

These are general guidelines to help you heal your tattoo. Everyone’s skin is different. Some people may find they need to continue these steps for more time, some need less time. We have done our best to make you a tattoo that will look great and last for as long as you live, now it’s your turn to ensure that it is well cared for after you leave the tattoo shop.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for tattoos?

First Time Cleanup – Leave the tattoo bandaged for 2 to 24 hours. DO NOT RE-BANDAGE or put Vaseline on the tattoo again.

The first time you clean the tattoo, remove the bandage gently , getting it wet if it’s stuck.
Wash gently with clean hands , and not a wash cloth. Don’t be afraid to really wash your tattoo thoroughly, or you won’t get the vaseline off.
Use mild soap like Dove, Ivory or Dawn dishwashing liquid. It’s best to avoid very hot water.
Be sure to remove all the Vaseline – it usually take 4 to 6 or more times washing and rinsing the tattoo before the vaseline is gone.
Pat dry with a fresh, clean towel. A paper towel is fine if it’s not linty. Don’t rub the tattoo – just pat it. For cleanliness, don’t use anything that you or other people have already used.
Apply a tiny amount of water-based lotion such as Curél or Lubriderm — most lotions are oily, and don’t let the tattoo “breathe. ” We’ll tell you how much lotion to use for your particular tattoo, but in general, use an amount that absorbs completely in about 5-10 seconds when you’re rubbing it into the tattoo.
You can also use bag balm or fresh aloe vera leaves (but not aloe vera products sold in stores, as they have stabilizers in them which aren’t good for your tattoo).
You can remove tape residue by rubbing with olive oil, then wash with soap and water (try not to get olive oil in the tattoo).

PLEASE NOTE: We do NOT recommend Neosporin or similar ointments – they clog the pores and the antibiotic formula can draw out color.

How long keep tattoo covered?

You’ll need to keep your tattoo wrapped in cling film from one to three days. Depending on the size of your artwork this may be longer and your artist will let you know but a general rule of thumb is: Small line-work pieces – keep the cling film on for one to two days.

Do I need antibacterial soap for tattoo?

TATTOO AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS – Unless told otherwise by your tattooer. Remove the bandage within 2-6 hours, once you’re in a clean environment and can wash your new tattoo properly. Using a gentle liquid soap (such as Dr. Bronner’s or Johnson & Johnson baby soap) wash your hands, then your tattoo.

You do NOT need antibacterial or antimicrobial soap. DO NOT USE ANY KIND OF HARSH SOAP OR SCRUB. Allow the tattoo to air dry. DO NOT TOWEL DRY THE TATTOO; towels can harbor bacteria. REMEMBER THAT YOUR NEW TATTOO IS ESSENTIALLY AN OPEN WOUND.

Sleep in clean, freshly laundered garments and on clean sheets for the first few nights after getting tattooed. Also avoid sleeping in anything you are worried about getting dirty, as the new tattoo may be moist for the first night or so. Starting the next day, if your tattoo feels a bit dry and tight after washing, you may use a gentle, unscented moisturizing lotion, such as Aveeno or Lubriderm.

Remember to always wash your hands, then the tattoo, let tattoo air dry, THEN apply lotion 1-2x daily as needed. DO NOT APPLY LOTION TO DIRTY SKIN WITH DIRTY HANDS. WHILE YOUR TATTOO IS HEALING: NO TANNING OR EXPOSURE TO DIRECT SUNLIGHT.

NO SWIMMING IN ANY KIND OF WATER. NO HOT TUBS, NO DIRECT EXPOSURE TO GYM EQUIPMENT. DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR NEW TATTOO TO ANY WATER YOU WOULD NOT WANT TO GET IN YOUR MOUTH. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO WHILE IT IS HEALING. Unless you’re washing your tattoo, keep your hands off until it is healed..

Can I use Dove antibacterial soap on my tattoo?

The best products to wash a new tattoo with – Dove Body Wash/Beauty Bar Gohara’s go-to recommendation for those with new tattoos? Dove Body Wash ($9; target. com ) or Beauty Bar ($13 for 8; target. com ). She says the most important thing is to identify a non-soap cleanser that isn’t irritating, and to look for one “that doesn’t strip the skin of essential nutrients.

” The body wash is sulfate-free, while the beauty bar is clean-rinsing and is made with the brand’s signature moisturizing cream to replenish nutrients lost in the skin during cleansing. “Irritating the skin with other more harsh cleansers can fade tattoo colors and create itchy dry skin that further irritates,” Gohara explains.

“This is perfect for use when your tattoo is fresh and the skin needs more TLC. ” H2Ocean Blue Green Canadian Foam Soap Great for travel thanks to its compact size, this water-based foaming soap ($6; amazon. com ) is vegan and super gentle. It’s packed with aloe vera to moisturize the skin while keeping your art disinfected.

It’s also free from parabens and fragrance, in addition to being vegan. Pears Transparent Soap This tried-and-true brand boasts 100 years of history and its transparent, fragrance-free soap ($5 for 3; bedbathandbeyond.

com ) is a favorite for a reason. Its glycerin-based formula also features natural oils like rosemary and thyme for a clean that won’t harm your art. Neutrogena Transparent Soap Bar It’s a classic that’s wallet-friendly. Marmur likes the Neutrogena Transparent Soap Bar ($3; neutrogena.

com ) for those with tattoos and notes that those of us with new tattoos should avoid scented soaps;
“They can irritate your tattoo and make the color fade faster,” she says;
Her advice to to wash gently with your fingers and avoid harsh washcloths while your tattoo is in the healing phase;

Neutrogena’s pure, gentle formula is hypoallergenic and doesn’t contain detergents or dyes. It can be used on the face or body, as well. Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar Because she believes in avoiding fragrances, Marmur is also a fan of the Dove Beauty Bar ($13/8 bars; target.

com ), but advises that those with new tattoos opt for the sensitive iteration;
If you’re prone to fragrance-related irritation, this soothing formulation cleanses skin gently without scent;
Dr;
Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap — Baby Designed for babies, this certified organic, vegan option ($16; amazon;

com ) works well for those with skin sensitivities in general. It’s also fragrance-free, but contains double the olive oil as Dr. Bronner’s original version, making it good for those with new tattoos, in addition to those with allergies. Though it is formulated without detergents, it still produces a satisfyingly rich lather so your regularly scheduled shower experience won’t be disrupted.

Babo Botanicals Sensitive Skin Fragrance-Free Hydra Therapy Wash Marmur recommends this unscented cleanser ($6; babobotanicals. com ). Another one that works for face or body, this gentle, sulfate-free sudsing liquid works for those with skin that’s dry, sensitive, or even eczema-prone.

The plant-based formula soothes and relieves itchiness as it cleans. If you liked our story Here’s Exactly How to Wash a New Tattoo, check out The Best Soaps for Tattoos, According to the Experts.

Can you use antibacterial hand soap on a tattoo?

Congratulations on your new tattoo! Here is a comprehensive aftercare instruction guide for the care and maintenance of your new tattoo. Remember, the most important thing is to listen to your artist! We can only guarantee and take responsibility for the health of your tattoo if you do exactly what we tell you to.

This does not mean look on the internet for “best way to take care of tattoo”. Please, if you have any questions or concerns after reading this care guide, contact our shop by phone or email. Do not, under any circumstances, do what your friend, your friend’s friend, or Google tells you to do.

Always consult your tattoo artist before trying something different than what we have specifically told you to do.

Your bandage should stay on for a minimum of 8 hours, and a maximum of 12 hours unless your artist tells you otherwise.
When you remove your bandage, wash your hands first, then thoroughly wash your tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial hand soap such as Dial or Cetaphil. Do not use any sponges or loofahs to wash your tattoo. Your bare hands or a soft wash cloth made for infants in preferable. Please refrain from using any soaps that contain aloe, oatmeal, exfoliants, tea tree oil, or fragrance.
All petroleum jelly needs to be removed in this process, so apply a heavy layer of soap, firmly (not roughly) wash your tattoo, then rinse off all of the soap. You may need to wash your tattoo 2 or 3 times to get all of the petroleum jelly off.
When you have finished washing your tattoo, pat it dry with a CLEAN towel. If your tattoo appears to be sticky after drying it off, gently wash it again to ensure that all of the Vaseline has been removed.
You should wash your tattoo two to three times a day gently with antibacterial soap, and pat dry with a clean towel until it is completely healed. NEVER remove your scabs in the shower, as this can prematurely pull ink out of your tattoo and damage the skin which will prolong the healing process and compromise the richness of your tattoo.
Fragrance-free lotion may be applied 1 or 2 days after you receive your tattoo unless your artist specifies otherwise. Lotion should be applied after each cleaning in very THIN amounts. DO NOT USE: Sunscreen, tanning lotions, fragranced oils, aloe vera, A&D or cortisone cream until your tattoo is fully healed. Lotions containing these things should be avoided. Good, simple lotions to use include: Cetaphil, Eucerin, Aquaphor, Aveeno, and 100% cocoa butter.

Should you experience swelling in the area of your tattoo, we recommend icing the area until swelling dissipates.

Julia