A scalp tattoo can provide long-lasting results by coloring the skin with pigments through tiny, layered dots. Various techniques are used to replicate the look of natural hair follicles. If you’ve had this treatment, follow care instructions to help maintain your tattoo’s appearance and integrity.

Avoid Excess Sun Exposure

A tattoo creates many microscopic perforations in the scalp’s outer layer. UV radiation from direct sun exposure can degrade the tattoo pigments.  Protect your SMP with a hat or apply sunscreen with zinc oxide before heading outdoors. This helps shield your scalp from the sun’s harmful rays that can damage a tattoo. Once healed, make sure to use sunscreen protection consistently to maintain your tattoo’s color longevity when out in the sun.

Stop Heavy Sweating and Straining

For the first week, avoid activities that induce heavy sweating, head pressure, or straining. Refrain from intense workouts or bending over for long periods. Choose light walks rather than jogging when healing from a scalp tattoo. These precautions may help reduce the risk of tattoo distortion before the skin is sealed. Stay indoors in air conditioning to minimize sweating. Once healed, you can resume your normal active lifestyle safely.

Keep your scalp dry to allow perforations to close up. Fast healing helps lock in the tattoo’s pigments. Avoid swimming in chlorinated or salt water, as these chemicals can damage an unhealed tattoo and irritate the fresh tattoo. Rinse your scalp with treated water from a filtered showerhead during the healing period. Test the water for any unusual odors that can indicate chemical contamination.

Avoid Chlorine

Chlorine from swimming pools and hot tubs can bleach tattoo pigments, sometimes leading to fading or color changes. Avoid chlorine swimming pools and hot tubs until your tattoo has healed. Your tattoo remains crisp when you minimize exposure to harsh chemicals. Once healed, apply natural protective oils to shield your tattoo before swimming.

Moisturize With Aftercare Products

Skincare products should help preserve your tattoo’s appearance as it settles into the skin. Look for specialty moisturizers specifically designed for fresh tattoos. They should be free from fragrances, alcohol, and allergens that could irritate a healing tattoo. After initial healing, apply a protective tattoo ointment before bed every night. This gives pigments an extra moisture barrier while you sleep. Hydrating your scalp reduces dryness that could obscure your tattoo lines.

Stop Picking Scabs

Avoid picking at the scabs that naturally form over a tattoo while it’s healing. These scabs create a protective barrier during healing. Pulling them off early disrupts the skin-repair process. Picking at them might introduce bacteria that may lead to infection. It also risks pulling out some of the pigments. Allow scabs to fall off naturally to help preserve your tattoo’s integrity.

Schedule Your Scalp Tattoo Session Today

When you are ready to transform your hair with a scalp tattoo, choose an experienced artist. Follow their tattoo aftercare recommendations, which include limiting water and sun exposure to preserve your tattoo’s appearance.  Be sure to moisturize your head safely and avoid chlorine and over sweating. Take the first step today and schedule a consultation.