Tattoo After Care

[just_George]

I had my first tattoo today and I've looked on the internet about after care and just got confused.
Some say wash the tattoo with mild soap 3-4 times a day. Others apply bepantham 3 times a day. some say leave open to the air others to wear a breathable dressing while at work to stop clothes rubbing. HELP!!! what is the best practical normal 'have to go work' way to care for a fresh tattoo

[ummmm]

And your tattooist didn't explain all this to you?

[just_George]

To treat it like an open wound and apply bepanthen. I forgot to ask how often and made mistake of looking on internet which has just confused me what's best to do. My uniform is nylon trousers and it's on my thigh

[ummmm]

I'd keep a breathable bandage/plaster on it. It will be prone to infection.

You might be best to pop into the chemist for advice.

[nailit]

Ive got several tattoos. Never bothered with any of this aftercare stuff, as you say its all so confusing. (and never had any problems either) It'll just scab and flake like any 'wound' would regardless of how you 'treat' it.

[WELSHYORKIE]

I used Bepanthen on mine and had no problems whatsoever. Might be expensive, but well worth it.

[just_George]

thanks all. If my clothes stick to it at work what is the best way to deal with it?

[ummmm]

That's probably why it's a good idea to use a breathable plaster.

[ABSpareEditor]

I have three tattoos and my tattooist told me to wash them with antibacterial soap three times a day and then apply Bepanthen. I never covered any of them with a dressing and they were fine. I don't think my clothes sticking to them was ever a problem. Oh, and don't scratch it!