bright colored clothing brands

THE TATTOO AFTERCARE: WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but the real work begins after you leave the artist’s chair. Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for ensuring your new ink heals beautifully and minimizes the risk of infection or complications. This involves a delicate balance of keeping the area clean while allowing it to breathe and heal naturally. 

This guide will provide you with essential tips and information on how to care for your fresh tattoo, from the immediate post-tattoo steps to long-term considerations. By following these guidelines, you can help your tattoo heal optimally and enjoy its vibrant colors and intricate designs for years to come.

TATTOO AFTERCARE: FIRST 30 DAYS AND BEYOND

Healing time varies depending on your tattoo’s size and intricacy. Larger tattoos tend to stay red and swollen for longer as they cause more trauma to the skin.

Day 1

When you leave the tattoo studio, your tattoo will be covered with a dressing. Your artist will tell you when to remove it. Plastic wrap and gauze are typically removed after a few hours, while medical-grade adhesive (known as “second skin”) can stay on for several days. Brands like Dermalize, Flexifix, Saniderm, SecondSkin, Tatu-Derm, and Tegaderm are commonly used.


Fluid, including blood, plasma, and excess ink, may ooze from your tattoo. It will also be red, sore, and warm to the touch. When it’s time to remove the dressing, wash your hands thoroughly before gently peeling it off. Cleanse the area with warm water and fragrance-free soap, rinse well, and then lightly pat dry. Afterward, wait a few minutes before applying the ointment or lotion your artist recommends.

Days 2–3:
Your tattoo will likely have a duller, cloudier appearance as your skin starts healing. Scabs may form.


Continue washing your tattoo once or twice a day, and don’t worry if some ink runs into the sink. This is just excess ink coming up through your skin. Let your skin dry completely before applying the recommended ointment or lotion.

Days 4–6:
By now, the second skin should be removed. Some artists suggest running the area under water while peeling off the adhesive. Make sure your hands are clean before starting.
Gently stretch the adhesive and peel it off slowly. Afterward, cleanse the area, let it dry, and apply the recommended ointment or lotion.


Redness should be fading, and light scabbing may appear. Avoid picking at the scabs, as this can cause scarring. Continue washing your tattoo once or twice daily and applying ointment as needed.

Days 6–14:
Scabs will begin to flake off naturally, but don’t pick at them. Pulling them off prematurely can remove ink and cause scarring. Itching is common during this time. To soothe it, use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer several times a day. If the tattoo remains red and swollen, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for advice on possible infection.

Days 15–30:
By now, most scabs should be gone, and any remaining flakes will fall off. The tattooed area may still look dry and dull, but it should start to feel smoother. Continue moisturizing until the skin appears hydrated again. By the second or third week, the outer skin layers will have healed, but deeper layers may take 3–4 months to fully heal.

Expect your tattoo to look bright and vivid again by the end of the third month.

Tips for Long-Term Tattoo Care:
Once your tattoo has healed, it’s important to maintain its appearance.

  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to support overall health and keep your skin elastic.
  • Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo from UV damage and keep the colors vibrant.
  • Avoid Rapid Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight gain or loss can stretch and distort your tattoo.

SELECTING THE BEST SKIN CARE PRODUCTS FOR TATTOO AFTERCARE

USE SOAP

Always opt for a mild, fragrance-free soap or a specially formulated tattoo cleanser to clean the tattooed area.

Many tattoo artists recommend:

  • Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Soap
  • Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
  • Dial Gold Antibacterial Soap (although not fragrance-free, some artists recommend it)

USE OINTMENT


For the first day or two, some artists suggest using A+D Original Ointment. Afterward, you can switch to Aquaphor Healing Ointment or Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Organic Magic Balm.

USE LOTION

After the first week, you can switch to a lotion to keep the skin hydrated. Just ensure it is free of fragrances, ethyl alcohol, and additives like colored dyes that can dry out your skin.

Some recommended lotions are:

  • Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
  • Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

AVOID 100% PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

It’s best to avoid using products that are 100% petroleum-based, such as original Vaseline, during the initial healing process.

Petroleum products are thick and can trap moisture, preventing proper airflow to the tattoo. This can hinder healing and may even cause the ink to fade. Always choose products that allow your skin to breathe while supporting the healing process.

COMPLICATIONS DURING THE TATTOO HEALING PROCESS

While some discomfort and changes in your tattoo are normal, certain complications can arise. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional.

INFECTION

Improper care of your tattoo can lead to an infection. Signs of infection include:

  • Redness, warmth, and pain around the tattooed area
  • Leaking pus or other unusual fluids

In rare cases, contamination of tattoo equipment or ink can lead to serious bloodborne infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus, or HIV. Non-tuberculous mycobacterial skin infections have also been reported.

ALLERGIC REACTION

If you’re allergic to the ink, you may experience a red, itchy reaction at the tattoo site. Red dyes are most likely to cause allergies, although blue and black dyes can also trigger skin reactions like photosensitivity. Always consult your artist or a healthcare professional if you suspect an allergic reaction.

SCARRING

Improper healing, such as picking at scabs or damage from the needle, can lead to scarring. Scar tissue can be permanent, so it’s important to avoid picking or scratching the tattoo while it heals.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When should you start aftercare for a new tattoo?
Aftercare begins immediately after your tattoo is completed. Your artist will typically apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap. Follow their aftercare instructions on when to cleanse and what products to use.

2. How long should you keep your tattoo covered after your appointment?
Keep the dressing on for the duration recommended by your artist, typically anywhere from a few hours to a few days. The dressing prevents bacteria from entering, absorbs excess ink and fluid, and shields the tattoo from friction or irritation.

3. What is proper aftercare for a new tattoo?

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before removing the covering.
  • Gently cleanse the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap.
  • Pat the skin dry with a soft cloth.
  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizer.
  • Let your skin breathe by keeping the dressing off after initial care.
  • Follow this routine for the first few weeks and avoid sun exposure until fully healed.

4. What should you avoid after getting a new tattoo?

  • Avoid scratching or picking at your tattoo. Gently patting the area can relieve itching.
  • Avoid tight clothing that may rub or irritate the tattoo.
  • Stay away from bathtubs, hot tubs, pools, or submerging your tattoo in water.
  • Don’t apply sunblock until the tattoo has fully healed, and avoid direct sun exposure during healing.

5. Can you use Aquaphor on a new tattoo?
Yes, it’s generally safe to use a thin layer of Aquaphor Healing Ointment on a healing tattoo. Unlike pure petroleum jelly (like Vaseline), Aquaphor is more breathable and allows air to circulate, aiding the healing process without suffocating the skin.

CONCLUSION

A tattoo is not only a form of personal expression and art, but also a medical procedure. The artist uses a needle to deposit ink beneath your skin, which creates a wound. Anytime the skin is broken, there’s a risk of scarring and infection. Proper aftercare is essential to minimize these risks and promote healthy healing of your tattoo.

16 INSPIRING IDEAS FOR A BOHO COLOR PALETTE

Here are 16 inspiring color palettes that capture the essence of boho style. Whether you’re designing a room, creating a fashion statement, or planning a boho-themed event, these palettes will provide you with endless possibilities. From earthy tones to vibrant hues, these combinations will inspire you to embrace the free-spirited and eclectic nature of boho style. Keep reading to find out everything you need to have a perfect Boho color palette in your design!

70’S BOHO COLOR PALETTE

The fashion industry has been revisiting the bohemian style of the 1970s for years, and popular clothing brands have been inspired by this era to create new collections. Interior design has also embraced this trend. The relaxed boho style is now a common feature in modern design, and interior designers see even greater potential for creativity within it.

Boho isn’t limited to the 1970s; it combines various eras and styles, resulting in eclectic and harmonious compositions filled with vibrant colors and patterns, as well as elements of vintage and folk art. The expression of boho in interiors is incredibly diverse, yet, like any style, it has its distinctive characteristics.

Specifically, the 1970s boho color palette is recognized for its unique and seemingly incompatible colors. The most prevalent shades include violet, blue, red, and green.

BOHO CHIC COLOR PALETTE

Boho style is defined not only by its decorations but also by its accessories. Aristotle once said that nature abhors a vacuum, and this philosophy applies to the boho aesthetic as well.

Be Unique! Consider adding small, simple, yet eye-catching Boho pins to your decor. These pins can enhance anything you wish to style and are a great way to express your individual boho vibe.

Similarly, the boho style in interior design does not allow for empty spaces. A boho interior is filled with various objects. While the arrangement might appear chaotic, true boho chic is not about messiness. There is a fine line between clutter and boho elegance. A well-curated boho space fosters creativity and relaxation, whereas a disorganized room can lead to psychological discomfort.

Bohemian Comfort is largely created through textiles. You’ll find an assortment of pillows, scarves, and patchwork bedspreads scattered throughout, along with rugs and mats covering the floor. Tables are adorned with tablecloths and napkins, while curtains frame windows and doorways.

Boho Chic represents a more sophisticated and curated take on the bohemian style. Unlike traditional boho, it does not feature worn vintage chairs or antique decor. Instead, it emphasizes high-quality furnishings, precious metals, luxurious fabrics, and elegant accessories.

The Boho Chic color palette is vibrant but features softer shades and smoother transitions than its classic counterpart. Each item is carefully chosen to complement one another. Therefore, the Boho Chic palette often includes similar tones like beige, sandy hues, and browns. To make accessories stand out, bright colors such as green and orange can be used as striking contrasts.

BOHO VINTAGE COLOR PALETTE

Boho is an interior style that tells stories through its unique pieces. Items like sewing machines, suitcases, and chests inherited from your grandmothers can add character and history to the space.

Time-worn furniture, such as the piano your great-grandmother played, your uncle’s vintage radio, and porcelain figurines from the past, all contribute to the soul of a boho interior, making it truly original and special.

However, not everyone has the opportunity to curate a collection of objects with a history. In this case, intentionally aged textures and vintage-style furniture can provide the same effect. Thankfully, finding such pieces in the mass market is relatively easy these days.

To complement vintage elements, handmade decor can enhance the boho aesthetic. Items like dreamcatchers, crocheted napkins, macramé pieces, patchwork pillows, quilts, and rag dolls can all find their place in a bohemian interior.

You don’t need to be a master craftsman to incorporate handmade products into your boho space; even your children’s drawings and crafts can perfectly complement the decor.The Boho Vintage style color palette typically includes shades of gray, beige, light blue, and amber orange.

BOHO RETRO COLOR PALETTE

Seashells collected from the beach, crystal threads, and retro posters can beautifully enhance a boho retro interior. Ceramic and wooden figurines, street art-inspired paintings, and ornate oriental lanterns add character and charm. Small trinkets, such as decorative caskets, further enrich the space, making it feel complete and curated.

Hanging bunches of bulbs and dried flowers from the ceiling can infuse any room with a whimsical touch. The essence of retro boho lies in the fearless experimentation with vibrant colors, unique patterns, and an array of materials, shapes, and textures.

A boho retro room should reflect the owner’s inner world, showcasing their individuality and refined taste. This is why the Boho Retro color palette is wonderfully eclectic, featuring shades of blue, gray, amber, orange, and gold, creating a unique atmosphere that tells a personal story.

BOHO BEDROOM COLOR PALETTE

A boho bedroom is designed to be exceptionally comfortable and serves as a space for creativity. While a bed is optional—many people make do with just a mattress—if you do opt for a bed, choose spacious bedding sets and a large, colorful blanket to enhance the bohemian vibe.

The flowing lines of bedspreads and curtains that reach the floor help create an atmosphere of ease and relaxation, making every day feel like a mini-vacation. When decorating your boho bedroom, prioritize natural materials and incorporate original decor elements like decorative pillows, souvenirs, and woven rugs.

The more ornaments and unique items you can collect, the better the boho aesthetic will be expressed in your space. Interestingly, a Boho Bedroom doesn’t rely heavily on bright colors. Instead, the palette is typically serene and light, featuring shades such as beige, sandy tones, camel, light gray, and cream. These softer hues contribute to a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.

BOHO FARMHOUSE COLOR PALETTE

Not every household may appreciate the boho style for the exterior or interior of a home, so it’s essential to discuss this with family members before committing to a bohemian aesthetic, especially in a small farmhouse.

If a fully bohemian-style home isn’t feasible, consider focusing on individual spaces like the living room, dining room, or bedroom. To ensure cohesion in the overall design, you can incorporate common style elements—such as a unified color palette, similar decor, bright accents, and indoor plants.

The farmhouse often serves as a cozy retreat, reminiscent of summer visits to your grandmother’s house or a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s important that this space feels relaxing and enjoyable.

By integrating the boho style, your farmhouse can transcend simple and boring designs, becoming both glamorous and inviting. The Boho Farmhouse color palette typically features a blend of beige, camel, dark brown, peach, violet, and sea blue, creating a warm and soothing environment.

BOHO KITCHEN COLOR PALETTE

Have you always dreamed of a colorful set of kitchen utensils or pink curtains? A kitchen in the boho style is the perfect place to embrace a vibrant mix of colors. Feel free to create a striking color accent on the countertops or kitchen cabinets.

In a boho kitchen, a bit of chaos is welcomed. Display jars, preserves, and a variety of multi-colored kitchen utensils openly, alongside bundles of dried herbs. Adding plants in pots and fresh herbs in flowerpots will enhance the decor and bring life to the space.

The most common colors found in a Boho Kitchen include celery green, dark brown, rust orange, charcoal gray, sandy tones, and beige. These hues work together to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that celebrates creativity and individuality.

BOHO HOME COLOR PALETTE

Before diving into the boho style for your home interior, it’s a good idea to prepare the space. Consider plastering the walls with a textured finish, painting them in a color that complements the overall theme, or applying wallpaper with a bold print.

You can also create a focal point by accentuating one wall with a pattern using a stencil or even by wallpapering the ceiling for a unique touch. If your walls are made of brick, embrace them instead of covering them up, and don’t shy away from showcasing visible elements like pipes, beams, and radiators.

For the flooring, opt for natural materials such as wood, parquet, or tiles, preferably with a rough or aged finish to enhance the bohemian vibe.

When it comes to home decor in the boho style, incorporating stained glass windows and mosaics can add an artistic flair. The most popular colors for a Boho Home typically include light blue, cobalt, gray, bone, chartreuse, and copper, which together create a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.

BOHO DESIGN BY COLOR

Once you’ve decided to embrace the boho style for your flat, farmhouse, or kitchen, it’s important to approach color selection thoughtfully. Rather than mixing random shades with different undertones, you can achieve a harmonious monochrome design, even within the boho aesthetic.

BOHO EMERALD COLOR PALETTE

If you’re lucky enough to have a little house by the ocean or in a seaside area, consider decorating with a boho emerald color palette. This combination evokes the beauty of nature and includes the following shades:

  • Light blue
  • Olive
  • Hunter
  • Emerald
  • Blue-green
  • Teal

BOHO NEUTRALS COLOR PALETTE

For those who prefer a warmer and calming environment without overwhelming bright colors, the Boho Neutrals palette is an excellent choice. This collection maintains the boho spirit with:

  • Brown
  • Camel
  • Beige
  • Bone
  • Bronze
  • Dark brown

Despite its muted tones, the decor and accessories can add depth and interest to your space.

BOHO RAINBOW COLOR PALETTE

If you’re drawn to a vibrant and eclectic mix of colors, the Boho Rainbow palette will resonate with you. Inspired by nature and classic bohemian influences, it features a bold array of colors, including:

  • Red
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Pink
  • Green
  • Cobalt

This palette celebrates the vibrancy of life and creativity.

BOHO TERRACOTTA COLOR PALETTE

For those eager to express their passionate personality through interior design, the Boho Terracotta palette is perfect. It captures the essence of high fashion and warm sunsets with colors like:

  • Amber orange
  • Rust
  • Copper
  • Peachy
  • Mauve
  • Orange

This palette is ideal for individuals who want their space to reflect their expressive nature.

BOHO YELLOW COLOR PALETTE

The Boho Yellow palette evokes a cheerful and inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for a child’s bedroom. The sun-kissed shades include:

  • Mustard
  • Copper
  • Yellow
  • Mustard
  • Banana
  • Light brown

These colors create a warm, happy environment.

BRIGHT BOHO COLOR PALETTE

If you’re looking for a mix that allows for creative freedom, the Bright Boho palette is your answer. This vibrant combination includes:

  • Fuchsia
  • Yellow
  • Orange
  • Plum
  • Cobalt
  • Green

It’s perfect for those who want their home to feel like a whimsical, positive haven.

DESERT BOHO COLOR PALETTE

For a more subdued yet warm monochrome option, consider the Desert Boho palette. This mix features calming colors like:

  • Dark brown
  • Camel
  • Charcoal
  • Beige
  • Bone
  • Bronze

This palette creates a serene, inviting space.

EARTHY BOHO COLOR PALETTE

Inspired by the gifts of nature, the Earthy Boho palette incorporates serene shades that reflect the beauty of the outdoors. It includes:

  • Beige
  • Bone
  • Cream
  • Dark brown
  • Dark gray
  • Camel

These calm hues offer a grounding presence in your home.

With these diverse color palettes, you can express your unique personality while embracing the bohemian style in your space.

CONCLUSION

By exploring these 16 inspiring boho color palettes, you’ve unlocked a world of creative possibilities. Remember, the beauty of boho style lies in its eclectic nature. Feel free to mix and match these palettes, experiment with different shades, and add your own personal touch.