As a dermatologist with extensive experience in tattoo care and skin health, I'm often asked about the best practices for cleaning and maintaining a new tattoo. It's crucial to understand that a tattoo is essentially a wound, and as such, it requires careful attention to prevent infection and promote proper healing. Let's delve into the specifics of using antibacterial soap for tattoo care.

**First and foremost, it's important to clarify the difference between antibacterial soap and regular soap.** Antibacterial soap contains added ingredients that are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. While this might sound beneficial for a tattoo, it's not always the best choice.

Here's why:


1. Overuse of Antibacterial Agents: The skin is home to a delicate balance of both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Overusing antibacterial soaps can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to skin irritation and even promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria.


2. Skin Irritation: Tattooed skin is particularly sensitive. The ink has just been introduced into the dermis, and the skin is in a state of healing. Antibacterial soaps can be harsh and may cause unnecessary irritation, which can delay the healing process.


3. Ointment Application: The advice you mentioned about using too much ointment is quite pertinent. It's true that an excessive amount of ointment can lead to problems such as scabbing. However, a thin layer of a fragrance-free, antibiotic ointment or a specialized tattoo aftercare product is often recommended to keep the tattoo moisturized and protected.

**So, what's the recommended approach?**


1. Initial Cleaning: In the first few days after getting a tattoo, it's generally advised to clean the area gently with mild, unscented soap and warm water. This helps to remove any residual ink, blood, or plasma without causing irritation.


2. Pat Dry: After cleaning, it's important to pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel or let it air dry. Rubbing can cause irritation and delay healing.


3. Moisturizing: Applying a thin layer of a fragrance-free, antibiotic ointment or a specialized tattoo aftercare product is recommended. This helps to keep the skin moisturized and promotes healing.


4. Avoiding Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can damage the healing skin and fade the tattoo ink. It's best to keep the tattoo covered or apply a high-SPF sunscreen when going out.


5. Professional Advice: Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. They have the expertise and understand the specific needs of your tattoo.

**In conclusion, while antibacterial soap might seem like a good idea for tattoo care, it's generally not recommended due to the potential for skin irritation and disruption of the skin's natural bacterial balance. Instead, opt for a mild, unscented soap and follow a gentle aftercare routine to ensure your tattoo heals properly and looks its best for years to come.**

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I personally recommend you wash the tattoo with an anti-bacterial hand soap, such as Dial antibacterial hand soap, to reduce your risk of infection. ... Using too much ointment can oversaturate the tattoo and cause excess scabbing, or cause scabs to come off prematurely. It is NOT --the more, the better.--May 1, 2013read more >>