This is a difficult question to answer. There are many different things that can cause pain and infection after tattooing, so it is best not to do anything that could increase your risk of hurting yourself or getting an infection. Some examples would be washing the area too much, scratching at the scabbing, going into pools or hot tubs immediately following inking. Certain medications such as ibuprofen may also make healing more difficult if taken within 24 hours following inking