side tattoo designs for men

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 AMAZING PORTUGUESE TATTOO DESIGNS

A quote in Portuguese can carry a deeply personal symbolic meaning for you, one that remains private while sparking curiosity in others. People won’t be able to resist asking about the meaning behind your Portuguese tattoo, and this is where the allure of foreign languages comes in. It’s an opportunity to share the significance of your heritage or your connection to Portuguese culture, along with the story of your journey to get the ink. These tattoos are all quite beautiful—some honor family members, while others feature inspiring words that serve as a source of motivation or faith.

Amazing Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm

This stunning Portuguese tattoo design features incredible ink work that enhances the overall beauty of the piece. The unique ink effect adds an eye-catching touch, while the style used is distinctly characteristic of traditional Portuguese tattoo art. Overall, it’s a truly remarkable design.

Saudade Portuguese Tattoo Design On Wrist

Small designs have a chic and elegant appeal when inked on the skin, making them a fantastic choice for a Portuguese tattoo. These designs can be both charming and unique. You can opt to add color to your tattoo, depending on the design, as some may look great with color while others are best kept simple. Be sure to consider your personal preferences when choosing the style and colors.

Nice PortugueseTattoo Design On Arm


The vibrant Portuguese tattoo design is both colorful and inspiring. You can personalize it by incorporating symbols that hold significance to you, such as religious, traditional, political, educational, or cultural elements. These symbols can add deeper meaning to your tattoo, reflecting the reason behind choosing a Portuguese design for your skin. Each symbol carries its own unique significance, enhancing the overall impact of the tattoo.

Religious Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


You can customize your Portuguese tattoo design to reflect different tones. For instance, you could opt for a playful, bold design with thick lines, vibrant colors, and a humorous vibe. Alternatively, you could give your tattoo a more realistic look, using fine lines and shading effects to create an amazing, lifelike appearance. The choice of style will allow you to express your personality and the meaning behind the tattoo in a unique way.

Portuguese Fish Tattoo Design On Arm


Some Portuguese tattoo designs are deeply rooted in tradition, featuring elements that are characteristic of the country’s heritage. One of the best things about getting a Portuguese tattoo is that you can choose from a variety of artistic styles, whether traditional or modern. You can apply these unique artistic applications to your tattoo, ensuring it reflects the rich cultural history of Portugal while also making it your own.

Colorful Portuguese Tattoo Design On Upper Arm


The theme you wish to represent through your Portuguese tattoo design will depend on the elements you incorporate, which can make the tattoo truly captivating. While it’s commonly designed on the arm, this tattoo can also be placed on the legs or chest. When choosing the location, you may need to adapt the design to fit the area, ensuring it complements the shape and flow of your body. This flexibility allows you to personalize the tattoo and make it uniquely yours.

Better Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


The placement option of your Portuguese Tattoo Design would solely depend on the kind and the size of the design that you have chosen. If your design is long, you can make it on the arm, legs, thighs, and ribs. If your tattoo is huge, you can make it on your chest, belly, and even on your back. If your design is pretty small, the ear, neck, finger, and ankle would be a great placement option.

Sevalente Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm

A small and simple Portuguese tattoo design featuring a Portuguese word would look incredibly chic on your arm. The beauty of this tattoo lies in its ability to express your love for the country in a subtle yet creative and aesthetic way. It’s a personal and meaningful tribute to Portuguese culture, beautifully showcased on your skin.

Artistic Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


You can choose to include a single object or multiple elements in your Portuguese tattoo design, each representing the national pride of the country. These objects can reflect various aspects of Portuguese culture, creating a design that is not only meaningful but visually stunning. Adding vibrant colors and contrasting elements can further enhance the tattoo, making it stand out and showcasing the beauty and diversity of Portugal in your design.

Beautiful Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


Adding color to your Portuguese tattoo design is entirely up to you and should align with your overall tattoo aesthetic. If you choose a black ink design, it will seamlessly match with any other tattoos you may have. However, if you opt for a colorful Portuguese tattoo, you’ll want to consider how the colors will complement your other tattoos, ensuring they flow well together for a cohesive look.

Nice Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


Certain Portuguese tattoo designs are highly popular and representative of the country’s artistic heritage, often leading many people to choose them. While there may be numerous variations of these designs, some individuals end up replicating each other’s tattoos due to the limited scope for new tweaks. However, the key to making your Portuguese tattoo unique lies in your personal creativity and improvisation, allowing you to customize the design in a way that feels original and meaningful to you.

Loving Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm

Certain Portuguese tattoo designs are highly popular and representative of the country’s artistic heritage, often leading many people to choose them. While there may be numerous variations of these designs, some individuals end up replicating each other’s tattoos due to the limited scope for new tweaks. However, the key to making your Portuguese tattoo unique lies in your personal creativity and improvisation, allowing you to customize the design in a way that feels original and meaningful to you.

Wonderful Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm

The Portuguese are known for their creativity, especially when it comes to their unique tattoo designs. You can also blend elements from Portugal with those of your own country’s art style, creating a fusion that represents both cultures. For example, you could incorporate symbols or motifs from your native country into the Portuguese tattoo design, or vice versa, merging the two styles into a one-of-a-kind, meaningful piece that reflects your personal heritage and artistic influences.

Creative PortugueseTattoo Design On Upper Back

Adding a background to your Portuguese tattoo design is a fantastic idea. Backgrounds not only enhance the overall design but also add depth and dimension, making the tattoo feel more complete and visually striking. A thoughtfully chosen background can complement and resonate with the main elements of the Portuguese tattoo, elevating its meaning and aesthetic appeal. It creates a more intricate and detailed design that feels cohesive and dynamic.

Nice Portuguese Tattoo Design On Arm


One of the best aspects of getting a Portuguese tattoo design is its ability to tell a story through depictions of actions or people. This type of tattoo can effectively convey a narrative, making it deeply personal and meaningful. A larger Portuguese tattoo design is ideal for this, allowing you to cover more space and showcase intricate details that enhance the creativity and impact of the story you’re telling. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to create a visually captivating and meaningful piece.

Pretty Portuguese Tattoo Design On Shoulder

This Portuguese tattoo design would look stunning on the shoulders or near the collarbone, especially if you’re aiming for a medium to large design. If it’s on a visible part of the body, such as the shoulders, you can enhance the tattoo by adding color, or you can keep it simple with all-black ink. Black ink can be used to outline the design or to create a shaded effect, giving it a more artistic and dynamic appearance. This tattoo is perfect for the arm, shoulders, or even the legs, and would look amazing in medium size. It complements fair to wheatish skin tones beautifully, making it a striking choice for those with these skin tones.

CONCLUSION

These 16 captivating Portuguese tattoo designs demonstrate the profound connection between art and identity. Each design tells a story, whether it’s a tribute to maritime exploration, a celebration of religious faith, or a nod to the country’s rich artistic heritage. These tattoos serve as a powerful reminder of Portugal’s enduring legacy and the enduring allure of its culture.