Your tattoo will typically take approximately a month to fully heal. The tips below will help to make sure that the tattooed area heals properly without damaging the tattoo.

- For the first 24 hours keep your tattoo covered with a wound dressing.

- Do not touch the tattoo during the healing process and if any scabs form, do not pick at them.

- Wash the tattoo 4-5 times daily with an antibacterial soap and dry it by patting it with a soft towel rather than rubbing the area.

- Use antibiotic ointment after washing to keep the area free of infection and moist. My favourite is Bepanthen its not usual ointment but it helps heal skin lot faster then other products.

- Use an ice pack if there is any redness or swelling.

- Avoid soaking the tattooed area in water until it has healed.

- Keep the tattoo out of the direct sunlight until it has healed.

Long term maintenance is also important to making sure your tattoo lasts. It's okay to expose your tattoo to direct sunlight after it has fully healed but you should always use a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 on your tattooed skin.

The sunscreen will not only protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun but will also help to keep your tattoo from fading. Your tattoo is a lifetime investment and proper care while it is healing and in the long run will help you to enjoy your tattoo for many many years!