There just seemed to be rather a lot of different possibilites. I always thought that a scab always formed after a tattoo (but I've never had one so I'm not talking from first hand experience.) The article seemed to be saying what to do to avoid a scab, but it said that the skin will form a protective cover anyway, and said what to do if a scab formed, etc. Does that make any sense?
I thought it was a very good and very easy to follow article. You maybe want to mention that another reason for an artist not digging vaseline out of the jar with their hands hands is vaseline is not latex safe.
Great!
As far as gloves go latex is not the only way to go, nitrile seems to be particularly popular these days (especially in black, although I've always prefered the purple myself!) and doesnt stimulate allergies in the same way as powdered latex. Gratuitously anal I know, but I work in a lab and wear protective gloves a lot!
Also, I've always worked very hard to keep my new tattoos moisturised and I still get more than just a protective film over it!
especially the healing part, inspired me to make time to get another couple of hours done on mine ( a long term tribal project that i add to as and when )
one thing you didn't mention, it can get quite addictive
re; pile cream.
the artist who tattoos me warned against it, in the majority of cases he thinks it works well, but some people may have an adverse reaction which can spoil the work..
anyone else heard of that? his reccomendation was to use ordinary antiseptic cream (like savlon for eg).
the opening of the article reminded me of the poem the guys have got in their shop, about the dangers of visiting 'backstreet scratchers', its really good, i'll grab a copy of it post it next time i'm in the chair.