Someone told me that right after you get a tattoo that you need to take a shower, but when you do it stings like crazy...is that true?

Depends on the person. This is just like asking "will it hurt when i get a tattoo." Everyone feels pain differently, and for different reasons.

The First 48 Hours

The first 48 hours are the most crucial in the healing of a tattoo. Here is what you should do:

Keep it bandaged. Once completed, the tattooist will place a bandage over the tattoo to protect it from dirt and other foreign objects. It also keeps your clothes or anything else from rubbing against your sensitive tattoo. You will want to keep the bandage on for at least two hours. Many tattooists suggest that you keep the bandage on overnight so the tattoo won’t stick to your sheets or pajamas. Some of the ink will seep out of your skin during the first 12 hours and stain whatever you are wearing or sleeping on.

If you shower before going to bed, wash the tattoo and then carefully tape a piece of plastic wrap over the tattoo. Plastic wrap makes a great protective cover for tattoos. Tattoos on some parts of the body, such as a chest, can be hard to keep a bandage on, as it will fall off with your body movements. You can either re-tape the bandage on or just take it off and go to the next step.

Keep it clean. After the bandage has come off, you will need to clean your tattoo. There will be some tattoo color slime that has oozed out of your skin along with a little blood. This is normal. Wash the tattoo gently with soap and water. Most of the time it is just easier to take a shower. Many tattoos are on body parts that make washing in a sink very awkward.

I've never gotten a tattoo, I plan to one day though. But my sister got her's when she was 14, she never said anything about having a shower after you get a tattoo. I guess it depends on where you get your tattoo done. But it may sting or may not. I think it would sting more when you get your tat done. I don't know.