Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your cosmetic tattoo heals correctly and retains its color and definition. At Sara Justice Cosmetic Tattoo in Atlanta, GA, we provide our clients with clear aftercare guidelines to achieve the best results. Whether you’ve had permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, or lip blush, following these steps and the specific guidelines we will provide at your appointment will help you protect your skin and maintain the beauty of your cosmetic tattoo.
What to Expect Right After Your Procedure
Immediately after your cosmetic tattoo, the treated area will appear darker and more defined than expected. This bold color can last up to a week as your skin undergoes the initial healing process. You may experience sensations similar to a sunburn, but there should be minimal discomfort, redness, and swelling.
Don’t worry—this is normal. The color will soften and lighten as your skin heals.
Going Through the Initial Healing Period
During the healing process, your tattoo may develop slight flaking or scabbing, although this should be minimal. The complete healing process takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
Here’s what to expect during this time:
- The tattoo may appear to lose color temporarily, but this is part of your skin’s regeneration process.
- Be patient! After several weeks, the true final color of your tattoo will emerge.
- Avoid picking at the skin and follow the aftercare instructions to support proper healing.
Once Healed: After 4-6 Weeks
Most clients require more than one treatment to achieve optimal results. After your skin has fully healed, you will need to return for a reassessment and touch-up appointment.
During this visit, we will:
- Check how well your skin has absorbed the pigment.
- Adjust the color or shape as needed to perfect your results.
- Provide additional treatments if necessary, particularly for clients with older tattoos or complex skin types.
Touch-ups are essential to ensure the longevity of your cosmetic tattoo and to make any refinements to the color or design.
Keeping the Tattoo’s Color From Fading
Cosmetic tattoos typically last between 1 to 3 years. However, various factors can affect how long the color stays vibrant, including:
- Sun exposure: UV rays can cause the pigment to fade.
- Skin type and lifestyle: Oily skin or frequent exposure to water and chemicals can speed up fading.
- Chemical treatments: Avoid microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and glycolic acid products near the tattooed area.
Many clients return for touch-ups every 12 to 18 months to maintain the color saturation and shape.
Top Tips to Protect the Color of Your Cosmetic Tattoo
To prolong the life of your tattoo, follow these tips:
- Wear sunscreen once the area is fully healed.
- Use large sunglasses and a hat to protect the area from sun exposure.
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the tattooed area after exposure to chlorine.
- Keep chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and exfoliating products away from the tattooed area.
These measures can help maintain the vibrancy and clarity of your cosmetic tattoo for years to come.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
At Sara Justice Cosmetic Tattoo in Atlanta, GA, we are committed to providing clients with expert care and guidance throughout their cosmetic tattoo journey. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about the aftercare process for your permanent makeup.