Sleeping after getting a tattoo can be challenging. Between the discomfort, worry about damaging your new piece of art, and the inconvenience of having to adjust your normal sleeping position, the first nights can be difficult. However, with the right strategies, you can sleep comfortably while protecting your tattoo during the healing process. Knowing how to sleep properly after getting a tattoo is essential to ensure it heals well and maintains its perfect appearance.
This article will guide you through best practices for sleeping with a new tattoo, including recommended positions, how to protect the area at night, and what to do if you wake up with the tattoo stuck to the sheets. We'll also cover specific tips depending on tattoo placement and how to handle discomfort that can make it difficult to sleep. This information will help you have more peaceful nights while your tattoo heals correctly.
The first nights: additional protection
During the first nights after getting your tattoo, especially the first night, it's important to take additional precautions. The tattoo is still in the early stages of healing and is more vulnerable to damage. The skin is inflamed, may be secreting plasma and ink, and is more prone to sticking to sheets or bedding.
A common strategy is to use old bedding or clean towels that you don't mind getting stained during the first nights. Plasma and ink can stain sheets, and it's better to use something you can easily wash or discard if necessary. You can also place a clean towel over the sheets in the area where the tattoo will be to protect both the tattoo and the sheets.
Some people find it helpful to gently wrap the area with plastic wrap or film during the first nights, especially if the tattoo is on an area that may come into direct contact with sheets. However, it's important not to wrap too tightly and make sure the area can breathe. If you use plastic wrap, change it every night and don't use it for more than 2-3 nights, as keeping the area completely sealed can prevent proper healing.
Recommended sleeping positions
The position you sleep in can make a big difference in how your tattoo heals. The best position is one that avoids direct pressure on the tattooed area. If your tattoo is on your back, sleep face down or on your side, avoiding lying directly on the tattoo. If it's on your chest or stomach, sleep on your back or side, avoiding pressure on the area.
For tattoos on arms, try to sleep with your arm in a position that doesn't exert pressure on the tattoo. If the tattoo is on the upper arm, you can sleep on your side with your arm extended or use an additional pillow to support your arm in a comfortable position. For tattoos on the forearm, avoid sleeping with your arm bent in a way that presses the tattoo against your body or the bed.
If your tattoo is on your legs, try to sleep in a position that keeps your leg elevated or in a position that doesn't exert pressure on the area. Using an additional pillow under your leg can help keep it in a comfortable position and reduce pressure on the tattoo. For tattoos on feet or ankles, it can be especially challenging, but trying to keep your foot elevated or in a position that doesn't rub against sheets can help.
- Back tattoos: Sleep face down or on side, avoid direct pressure
- Chest/stomach tattoos: Sleep on back or side
- Arm tattoos: Keep arm in comfortable position without pressure
- Leg tattoos: Elevate leg or use additional pillow
- Foot/ankle tattoos: Keep elevated and avoid rubbing against sheets
- Using pillows: Support tattooed areas to avoid pressure
How to prevent tattoo from sticking to sheets
One of the most common concerns when sleeping with a new tattoo is that it sticks to sheets during the night. If the tattoo sticks to sheets and you move while sleeping, you can pull off scabs or cause damage to the healing area. There are several strategies to prevent this.
One of the most effective ways is to apply a very thin layer of cream before sleeping. The cream creates a light barrier that can help prevent the tattoo from sticking to sheets. However, it's crucial to use only a minimal amount: too much cream can create a humid environment favorable for bacteria and can make the tattoo stick more. The cream should absorb almost completely before you lie down.
Using bedding made of soft materials like cotton or satin sheets can help reduce friction and make it less likely for the tattoo to stick. Sheets made of synthetic or rough materials may adhere more easily to moist or cream-covered skin. If the tattoo sticks to sheets, don't pull it off abruptly. Instead, moisten the area with warm water to soften the adhesion before gently separating the tattoo from the sheets.
Managing discomfort at night
Discomfort at night can make it difficult to sleep after getting a tattoo. The burning sensation, itching, or sensitivity may be more noticeable when you're trying to relax and sleep. There are several strategies to manage this discomfort and get a better night's sleep.
If pain or discomfort is significant, you can take a mild pain reliever before sleeping, but always consult first with your artist or doctor about what's safe to take. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain, but it's important to follow your artist's recommendations about which medications are appropriate for your specific situation.
For itching, which can be especially annoying at night, make sure the area is clean and that you've applied a very thin layer of cream before sleeping. If itching is very intense, you can apply a cold compress (wrapped in a clean towel) over the area for a few minutes before sleeping. The cold can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching temporarily. However, never apply ice directly to the tattoo, as it can damage sensitive skin.
Specific protection by placement
Different tattoo placements require different strategies for sleeping comfortably. Tattoos on areas that are normally in contact with the bed require additional protection. For tattoos on the back, consider wearing a soft, loose cotton t-shirt to create a barrier between the tattoo and sheets. Make sure the t-shirt is loose enough not to exert pressure on the tattoo.
For tattoos on arms or legs, you can wear loose clothing that covers the area, but make sure it's not too tight. Tight clothing can exert pressure on the tattoo and can cause friction that can irritate sensitive skin. If you prefer not to wear additional clothing, make sure sheets are soft and the area is protected with a very thin layer of cream.
Tattoos on areas like ribs or sides of the torso can be especially challenging because these areas are in constant contact with sheets when you sleep on your side. For these tattoos, it can be helpful to sleep on your back during the first nights, or use an additional pillow to keep your body in a position that reduces contact with the tattooed area. By following essential tattoo care, including nighttime protection, you can ensure your tattoo heals perfectly.
When you can return to normal sleep
The good news is that you won't have to adjust your sleeping habits forever. Generally, after the first week, you can start sleeping more normally, although you should still be careful not to exert excessive pressure on the area. After 2-3 weeks, when scabs have disappeared and skin has begun to regenerate, you can return to your normal sleep routine.
However, it's important to continue being careful during the first weeks. Even after scabs have disappeared, skin is still healing in deeper layers, and excessive pressure or constant friction can affect how the tattoo heals. If you notice the area is still sensitive or there's discomfort when sleeping in certain positions, continue being careful until sensitivity disappears.
For large tattoos or tattoos on areas that require more time to heal completely, it may be necessary to be more careful for a longer period. Listen to your body and adjust your sleep routine based on how the area feels. If you have doubts about when you can return to normal sleep, consult with your artist, who can give you specific recommendations based on your tattoo and your individual healing process.
Additional tips for better nights
In addition to specific strategies for protecting your tattoo, there are some general tips that can help you have better nights of sleep during the healing process. Keeping your room at a comfortable temperature can help reduce sweating, which can irritate the tattoo and make it stick to sheets. In Cali, where the weather can be warm, using a fan or air conditioning can help, but avoid exposing the tattoo directly to very cold drafts.
Make sure the area is clean before sleeping. Gently wash the tattoo with warm water and neutral soap, pat it dry gently, and apply a very thin layer of cream before going to bed. This helps keep the area clean during the night and can reduce the risk of infections or healing problems.
If you wake up during the night and notice the tattoo has stuck to sheets or your clothing, don't panic. Moisten the area with warm water to soften the adhesion and gently separate the tattoo from what it's stuck to. Don't pull abruptly, as this can damage the healing skin. Once you've gently separated it, you can apply a very thin layer of cream if necessary.
Sleeping after getting a tattoo may require some adjustments and additional precautions, but with the right strategies you can sleep comfortably while protecting your new piece of art. The key is avoiding direct pressure on the area, preventing it from sticking to sheets, and managing discomfort effectively. Over time, you'll be able to return to your normal sleep routine, but during the first weeks, these additional cares are essential to ensure your tattoo heals perfectly and maintains its impeccable appearance for years.
