"Anytime the skin is compromised there is potential for infection and inflammation," she says. "The process of tattooing is a compromise to the skin."
A more likely side effect of an ear tattoo is keloid scarring, especially for folks with dark skin. She also says anything with cartilage is prone to infection.
What's the aftercare for ear tattoos?
After the session, don't be alarmed if your ear feels warm or looks red, as that's totally normal, Denyse says. Like all new tattoos, you have to keep the area well-moisturised and protected from the sun.
Carrie says you don't need anything super fancy for aftercare, just a "simple non-scented and dye-free lotion."
New York City-based artist Ocean Gao typically covers their clients' tattoos with a medical-grade healing bandage, like Second Skin. They suggest A&D Ointment — typically used for nappy rashes — for aftercare but say that many of their clients opt for a tub of Aquaphor, which also works.
There are certain ingredients and products to steer clear of after your appointment. "I tell all my clients to avoid letting shampooing or soap run directly on their ear tattoo for the first one to two days after receiving their tattoo. The same goes for spraying or applying hair products as well in that time frame," Denyse explains. "After the ear tattoo is healed, you can continue using all soaps and hair products as usual."
Toronto-based tattoo artist Rachel Weldon agrees with putting hair products down, but goes a step further and suggests her clients limit moisturising the area during the healing, but only for ear tattoos.
"I have found most people's bodies produce enough natural oil, particularly from their hairline, that it's not necessary," she explains. This may differ from the advice of other artists, so ultimately it's important to ask yours what they recommend.
Tattoos do fade over time, regardless of location, so taking care of them, especially in the healing phase, is key. To better preserve your ink, sunscreen is a must, according to London-based artist Gi, known as Slowpokes. Dr. Gohara says it should be SPF 30 or higher.
Now that you're equipped with the preparation and aftercare tips, all that's left is figuring out what you want tattooed. Get all the inspiration you need for your next ink appointment with one of these super cute tattoo designs for ears.
Dotted Stars on the Outer Cartilage
Gi etched this floral dot-work tattoo. She hand pokes (which is a form of tattooing that doesn't use a machine) all of her clients' tattoos. Teeny-tiny dots decorate the cartilage and lobe randomly. She added star-shaped flowers, composed of mini specks to the scapha, the mostly flat portion of the upper ear.
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