Should I Wrap My New Tattoo At Night? Pros & Cons | Expert Advice

Wrapping your tattoo during the aftercare period is crucial for protecting the tattooed skin and design. It protects the tattoo from bleeding, rubbing, and other substances that can trap bacteria and lead to infection. Tattoo artists typically apply a bandage after the tattooing process. This bandage should stay on for two to three hours after leaving the studio. 

Once you remove it, gently wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap. Let it dry completely before applying a thin layer of a recommended tattoo lotion like Aquaphor.

Should I Wrap My New Tattoo at Night?

A new tattoo resembles an open wound, susceptible to various harmful elements like bacteria and dirt. Trapping these elements against the tattoo can slow down the healing process and raise the risk of infection. Therefore, many tattoo artists recommend wrapping the tattoo at night during the initial healing stage, especially for large or colorful designs.

Wrapping protects new tattoo from infection and prevents bedding and clothing from irritating the tattooed area. Additionally, it reduces the risk of ink staining bed sheets. However, wrapping the tattooed skin at night can also hinder air circulation, which is vital for oxygen to reach the tattoo and promote faster healing. Wrapping for too long can trap moisture, creating a damp environment that fosters bacterial growth. Tightly covering the fresh tattoo can also irritate the skin.

Wrapping Recommendations:

Ultimately, the best practice is to follow your tattoo artist’s specific instructions regarding nighttime wrapping. Here’s an alternative to plastic wrap: consider using a “second skin” product like Saniderm for wrapping, which is a highly recommended aftercare solution.

How Long Should I Wrap My Tattoo?

Wrapping is essential for tattoo after-care, but knowing the appropriate duration is crucial to avoid complications.

• After Leaving the Tattoo Shop: Keep the initial bandage on for at least 2-4 hours. After this period, remove it and cleanse the tattoo with a gentle soap.
• Nighttime Wrapping: Many artists suggest wrapping the tattoo during the first night to prevent infection and irritation. However, continuous wrapping can promote bacterial growth and slow healing by blocking airflow. Therefore, wrapping is generally only recommended for the first night.

Medically Approved Aftercare Bandages:

Medically approved aftercare bandages like Saniderm or Tegaderm can be left on for 3-4 days. These bandages are designed to allow for extended wear without causing the issues associated with plastic wrap. They offer protection from infection, reduce scabbing and scarring, and permit oxygen to reach the tattoo area for faster healing. Additionally, they make tattoo waterproof. However, avoid exceeding the recommended wear time to prevent skin irritation.

Tips for Wrapping Your Tattoo at Night:

• Cleanse and Moisturize: Before wrapping your tattoo for the night, cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry with a clean towel and apply a thin layer of recommended tattoo lotion. This routine promotes healing and prevents scabbing.
• Breathable Wrap: Opt for a breathable wrap specifically designed for tattoos, such as a second skin product. Plastic wrap or airtight materials can slow healing.
• Loose Wrap: Avoid wrapping the tattooed area too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and irritation.
• Change the Wrap (if using plastic): Sweat and bodily fluids can accumulate under the wrap during sleep. If using plastic wrap, change it regularly to maintain cleanliness and a healthy environment for your tattoo.

Additional Nighttime Tips for New Tattoos:

• Prioritize Sleep: Getting enough sleep (around 8 hours a night) is crucial for overall health and promotes faster cell regeneration and tissue healing, which benefits your tattoo. Check out this guide, how to sleep properly with new tattoo.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated to support your body’s healing process and fight off potential infections.
• Avoid Sleeping on the Tattoo: Direct pressure on the fresh tattoo can irritate it and disrupt healing. Try sleeping in a position that avoids putting pressure on the tattooed area.
• Use Clean Bed Sheets: Ensure you use clean bed sheets to minimize contact with bacteria. However, avoid using your best sheets, as tattoo ink can stain fabrics and be difficult to remove. Change your sheets regularly (every 1-2 weeks) during the healing process.

Conclusion

Wrapping a new tattoo promotes faster healing and protects it from infection. However, nighttime wrapping with plastic wrap should only be done for the first night. If using a second skin product, it can stay on for 3-4 days. Regularly cleanse your tattoo with a good antibacterial soap during this period. Avoid constantly covering your fresh tattoo, as this can trap bacteria and slow healing.

FAQs

Is it okay to wrap a tattoo at night?

Wrapping your tattoo during the first night is perfectly acceptable. In fact, it’s recommended to prevent infection and other complications while you sleep. However, there’s a difference in wrapping duration depending on the material:

• Plastic Wrap: If you’re using traditional plastic wrap, only wrap the tattoo for the first night.
• Medically Approved Aftercare: For medically approved aftercare products like second skin, you can keep the wrap on for 3 to 4 days.

These aftercare bandages are designed for extended wear and allow the tattoo to breathe, unlike plastic wrap.