Getting a tattoo is almost a rite of passage, especially for black men. Whether it’s for attention, self-expression, or artistic freedom, tattoos have been a staple in the black community. With the average tattoo costs rising to nearly $250 and the lifelong permanence of this investment, it makes sense to take extra steps to keep your tattoo looking fresh and bold for years to come – even after it has fully healed. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.

1. Follow Aftercare Instructions

Your tattoo artist should provide you with instructions for caring for your tattoo, if not, here’s a great list. Aftercare starts as soon as your tattoo is done. The artist should apply a thin layer of ointment over the tattoo, and then cover the area with a bandage or plastic wrap. This covering prevents bacteria from getting into your skin. It also protects the tattoo from rubbing on your clothes and getting irritated.

2. Keep Your Skin Clean

The best way to make sure your tattoo heals properly is to keep your skin as clean as possible. We highly recommend using our All-Natural Body Wash for men, it won’t irritate the skin and is designed to gently cleanse and moisturize at the same time. Never wash a new tattoo with a washcloth, lather up soap in your hands and thoroughly rub it over the tattooed area. The only time your tattoo should be touched is when you’re washing it or applying ointment. 

3. Exfoliate Your Skin

It’s no secret, black men should always exfoliate, but this becomes even more important for black men with tattoos. Dead skin cells can accumulate on the outermost layer of the skin, making your tattoo appear to be dry, dull, and worn-out. Weekly exfoliation to a tattooed area will make your tattoo appear brighter and newer. Don’t worry, exfoliation only affects the outermost layer of the skin, while your tattoo is in the dermis, the deeper tissue underneath the outer layer. 

4. Moisturize Daily

To keep your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant, it’s important to keep your skin fully hydrated and moisturized. Your tattoo will look dull and faded if your skin is dry or dehydrated. Keep your color popping and your lines crispy with the best body balm for black men. It’s made with shea butter, coconut oil, and red palm oil to provide superior moisture and even UV ray protection. UV rays from the sun can damage your skin cells and bleach your tattoo, so using a product that naturally fights UV rays is absolutely critical. 

Tattoos on darker skin are quite different than others because of the way black skin absorbs color and the inherent traits of melanin. By following the tips above, black men can keep their tattoos looking fresh for years to come.

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More Tips On Taking Care of Your Skin

Improving your skin isn’t an overnight task, it requires discipline. Luckily, we’ve created a line of men's body care products designed to TRANSFORM black men’s skin over time. Like all great things, the best way to maintain healthy skin is to learn the basics for black men’s skincare and get comfortable with exfoliating regularly and by using a proven skincare routine that works.  If you need additional guidance, check out A Black Man's Guide to Getting Rid of Ashy Skin Once and For All.