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One of my favorite things about getting tattooed is that it never really feels the same way twice.

woman with hand tattoo

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Hand and finger tattoos are perfect examples.

Below, you’ll learn all abouthand and finger tattoo aftercarestraight from the pros.

Do finger tattoos and hand tattoos heal well?

Close up of woman with wrist and finger tattoo

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“The best bet for hand tattoos are the top of the fingers and top of hands.

Those two areas will heal well and will not fade quickly.

And that’s only half of what makes hand and finger tattoos different.

Aquaphor Original Ointment white jar with navy lid on white background

“All of this can affect how the tattoo ages and appears over the hands underlying anatomical structures.”

Can you wash your hands after getting a finger or hand tattoo?

Yes, it’s possible for you to and should wash your hands after getting a tattoo.

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Connecticut-based, board-certified dermatologistMona GohararecommendsDove Beauty & Care Protect Antibacterial Hand Wash, which fights bacteria and nourishes hands.

After that, moisturize with a simple formula likeAveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

OneAllureeditor favorite isMad Rabbit, which sells afragrance-free body lotionthat can help keep the area hydrated.

Image may contain: Bottle, Lotion, and Shaker

“I loveAvene Ciclafate+ Restorative Protective Cream.”

How do you preserve a finger tattoo or hand tattoo?

“This is usually difficult with hands because we use them so much.

The Eau Thermale Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream on a white background

A gentle approach is best.”

Moisturizers and barrier creams can help keep itching at bay.

The skin should be kept covered and moist while healing, Dr. Palm says.

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“Ink can immediately begin to fade with UV light exposure,” says Dr. Gohara.

Dr. Gohara recommends looking for a physical sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

SomeAllureeditor and dermatologist recommendations includeEltaMD Active,Dr.

Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ on white background

Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen, andNeutrogena Clear Body Lotion SPF 30.

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