Wash the tattoo gently with antibacterial soap and water, then pat it dry. Apply an antibiotic or Vaseline ointment twice a day, but do not cover with another bandage. Wash your tattoo area with soap and water twice a day and wipe dry before reapplying the antibacterial/Vaseline ointment. The skin around a tattoo is often red and swollen, which is normal after any kind of skin injury. Use cold packs or apply ice to the injured area for 20 minutes several times a day. If you have any questions about taking care of a wrist tattoo, feel free to ask them in the comment section below. I would love to hear from you!