Getting a tattoo is exhausting. The artist, first (do you know what it’s like to hold a tattoo machine for three hours?), but also the person getting tattooed.
In this practical guide, the Parisian studio La Bête Humaine looks at the question of sleep after getting a tattoo!
How to sleep well without damaging the work you just got inked? How to sleep without causing an infection? How to make the seven to nine hours you spend under the covers after your visit to the tattoo artist more enjoyable than a chore?
Let’s shed some light.
Prepare your bed
Before going to bed, prepare your bed to minimize the risk of contamination. Use clean sheets and prefer natural fabrics like cotton, which allow the skin to breathe.
You can also place a clean towel or an old sheet on your bed to protect your bedding from potential ink leaks or excess ointment.
Choose an appropriate sleeping position
Sleeping soundly, as the saying goes, isn’t for everyone… The sleeping position is obviously crucial to avoid rubbing or pressing on your tattoo. If possible, try to sleep on your back. If your tattoo is on your back, stomach, or side, adapt your sleeping position to avoid putting pressure on the tattooed area. Use pillows for support and comfort. And if you’ve inherited a bolster from a pregnancy or from your late great-aunt, take it out!
Note: depending on the location and type of tattoo, your tattoo artist’s advice may vary – both for the recommended sleeping position and the care to apply!
Keep the tattoo clean and hydrated
Before counting sheep, gently clean your tattoo. Run lukewarm water over your tattoo, then clean it delicately with an antiseptic solution you previously bought at the pharmacy (we recommend Septivon). Rinse with cold water.
To dry your tattoo, avoid using bath towels; as soft and fragrant as they may be, they are real nests for bacteria. Prefer paper towels, like the indispensable Sopalin. Dab gently to absorb all the water.
Use an appropriate dressing
Depending on the size and location of your tattoo, it may be wise to cover it at night to avoid friction and bacteria. Use a dressing specially designed for tattoos or a protective film: follow your tattoo artist’s recommendations.
And of course, change it every night to ensure optimal hygiene!
Protect your tattoo from pets
If you can’t take your eyes off your dachshund or can’t go more than fifteen minutes without scratching your cat’s neck, you might not like this… but pet hair, saliva, and claws can introduce bacteria and cause infections.
During the first few nights, sleep in a room where your cat or dog doesn’t have access. If that’s impossible, use an extra blanket to create a barrier between your tattoo and your pet’s hair.
While awake, be vigilant about your pets’ interactions with your tattoo. Licking or accidental rubbing can introduce bacteria or irritate the skin. If contact occurs, immediately clean the affected area with an antiseptic solution!
Avoid sudden movements
During the first few nights, try to limit your movements while sleeping – even if you dream that your freshly inked dragon tattoo is breathing fire on your concierge and you must save her from the flames to save humanity.
If you tend to move a lot, then also consider securing the tattooed area with pillows or cushions to avoid any accidental bumps or friction.
Watch for signs of infection
It’s essential to remain vigilant for signs of infection during the healing period. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, persistent pain, or unusual discharge, immediately contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional!
Be patient and cautious
The healing of a tattoo can take several weeks, especially if you opted for a large design. During this time, continue to follow your tattoo artist’s care recommendations and be patient. By following these tips, you’ll ensure proper healing of your tattoo while enjoying a restful sleep!
As J.R.R. Tolkien wrote in The Hobbit, « a little sleep does a lot of good »… including from the needles of a tattoo machine.
Getting a tattoo in Paris at La Bête Humaine: instructions
Have a project to entrust us with? Come see us (preferably awake)! La Bête Humaine is open every day (except Sunday) from 10 AM to 7 PM: