Things you should know

Can I shower with a new tattoo?

Many people think they need to wait several days before showering after getting a tattoo. Fortunately, that's not the case. Yes, you can shower with a new tattoo — but it does require a little care. Here are the most important tips from the artists at Masterpiece Tattoo in Sagene, Oslo.

7 tips for showering safely with a new tattoo

1. Keep it short

Avoid long showers. Too much water can soften scabs and damage the healing process. A quick, efficient shower is always better than a long, steamy one.

2. Use lukewarm water

Choose lukewarm rather than hot water. Hot water increases blood flow to the skin and can cause bleeding around the tattooed area. Lukewarm is always the safest choice.

3. Be gentle with soap

Use a mild, fragrance-free soap. Wash gently with your fingers — never with a sponge or scrub. Your skin is vulnerable during the healing phase and needs gentle treatment.

4. Dry carefully

Let the tattoo air dry after showering. If you need to dry it quickly, pat it gently with lint-free paper — never with a towel, as the fibres can catch on the fresh skin.

5. Avoid direct water pressure

Don't let the shower stream hit the tattoo directly. It can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process. Keep the tattoo at the edge of the water stream.

6. Don't soak the tattoo

Stay away from baths, hot tubs and swimming pools throughout the entire healing period. Prolonged soaking increases the risk of infection and can pull out ink.

7. Don't scratch or pick

Even though it's tempting when the skin starts to flake, let it heal naturally. Scratching or picking can lead to scarring or colour loss — and nobody wants that.

Summary

You can safely shower after getting a tattoo, but remember: short showers, lukewarm water, mild soap, gentle drying and absolutely no soaking. Follow these tips and your tattoo will stay healthy and heal as well as possible.