Body art like tattoos can be a great way to show your individuality, as well as your personality. New tattoos require special care to ensure they heal correctly, giving you the best possible end results. After you get your tattoo, it is recommended that you remove the bandage after two hours and do not replace it. However, sometimes work or other commitments can force you to bend that rule. It is important to take the proper precautions to keep any future bandaging from hurting your new tattoo.

Clean the tattoo gently with warm soapy water. Make sure the soap you use is mild such as an antibacterial soap. Do not scrub the tattoo. Gently dab the area dry with a paper towel.

Apply a thin layer of A+D ointment.

Cut a piece of saran wrap that is about two inches bigger than your tattoo on all sides.

Place the saran wrap over the tattoo.

Tape all of the sides tightly.

If you plan on engaging in any physical activity that will cause you to sweat or your skin to get moist, remove the bandage at the first sign of moisture, repeat the washing, drying and ointment process, and cover the tattoo again.