Effect of Numbing Cream Wears Off
Tattoo studios often use numbing cream before sessions to reduce pain, but its effect disappears after a few hours. Getting adequate rest and staying hydrated before scheduling an appointment is essential to maximize comfort during the session.
Painkillers Can Complicate Healing
Painkillers like ibuprofen after getting a tattoo can complicate the healing process. These painkillers thin your blood and slow down its natural recovery process.
Bleeding and Interference with Healing
Tattoos bleed somewhat, but the body’s natural blood clotting mechanism manages the blood loss. However, taking painkillers before a tattoo session can thin the blood further and lead to heavier bleeding through the needle holes created during the process. This can make it difficult for the tattoo artist to complete the design and hinder optimal healing.
Delay in Healing and Risk of Infections
Taking painkillers before getting a tattoo may delay healing and increase the risk of infections. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medications of this sort to ensure safety.
Numbing Cream and Proper Usage
Numbing cream can help ease tattoo discomfort if used with professional guidance and permission. It’s essential to read and follow all instructions on the product packaging and avoid rubbing it into the skin to prevent irritation.
Identification of Infections and Allergic Reactions
It’s crucial to distinguish between infections and allergic reactions during the healing process of new tattoos. If you experience fever, rash, red bumps, or hard-raised areas on your skin, seeking medical advice is essential. Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can temporarily ease pain and decrease fever levels for minor symptoms.
Avoiding Ibuprofen and Alcohol
Taking ibuprofen before getting a tattoo can thin the blood, increase bleeding during the session, and make it harder for the artist to see clearly. To prevent these issues, avoiding anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen before booking a tattoo session is advised. Alcohol and painkillers should also be avoided, as they may increase bleeding and cause the tattoo to become blurry over time.
Pain Sensitivity and Body Areas
Tattoos on fatty body areas can be particularly painful due to reduced fat padding for needle insertion. In contrast, places like elbows, knees, and the back tend to be less painful because they are covered with muscle and have more subcutaneous fat deposits.
Avoid Touching Newly Inked Tattoos
Touching a newly-inked tattoo should be avoided to prevent the spread of bacteria and potential infections. If necessary, make sure to wash your hands before handling. Excessive skin-to-skin contact can lead to chafing and irritation, so staying hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day can help hasten the healing process.
