Oh, the allure of perfectly sculpted eyebrows and lusciously tinted lips! In Vietnam, especially in vibrant Hanoi, getting a semi-permanent makeup treatment like lip and eyebrow tattooing has become as commonplace as sipping on a refreshing cà phê sữa đá. But as with any beauty treatment, aftercare is crucial, especially when it comes to food. You see, Vietnamese tradition places great importance on the connection between food and healing. It’s believed that certain foods can impact your body’s ability to recover and even affect the vibrancy of the tattoo ink.
Navigating the Culinary Minefield: Foods to Avoid Post-Tattoo
So, you’ve just emerged from the salon, your face radiating newfound confidence. What are the culinary culprits you need to steer clear of? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
1. Sticky Rice (Xôi): A Vietnamese Staple, But Not Your Friend Right Now
Sticky rice, or “xôi” as we call it in Vietnamese, is a beloved breakfast staple. It’s comforting, delicious, and oh-so-versatile. But alas, its sticky nature makes it a no-go for those who’ve recently had lip or eyebrow tattooing. You see, sticky rice can irritate the sensitive skin around your newly inked areas, hindering the healing process.
2. Seafood: Dive into Flavor Later
Woman enjoying Bun Rieu in Hanoi
From the briny delights of “bún riêu cua” (crab noodle soup) to the savory crunch of “chả cá Lã Vọng” (turmeric fish), Hanoi’s seafood scene is a culinary adventure. However, seafood is considered “âm” in Vietnamese tradition, meaning it has cooling properties that can interfere with wound healing. It’s best to avoid seafood for at least a week or two post-tattoo to ensure optimal healing and prevent any unwanted reactions.
3. Spicy Foods: Keep the Heat at Bay
Ah, chili! The fiery soul of Vietnamese cuisine. While a touch of spice can be delightful, it’s best to avoid overly spicy dishes after your tattoo session. Spicy foods can irritate the sensitive skin around your lips and eyebrows, potentially causing discomfort and delaying the healing process.
4. Alcohol: Say Cheers with Something Else
While Hanoi’s nightlife is tempting, indulging in alcohol after getting your lips or eyebrows tattooed is a big no-no. Alcohol can thin your blood, increasing the risk of bleeding and slowing down the healing process.
Hanoi Night Market Street Food
A Word from a Hanoi Expert
“Many of my clients ask me about traditional Vietnamese remedies for post-tattoo care,” shares Dr. Linh Nguyen, a respected dermatologist in Hanoi’s bustling Ba Dinh District. “While some natural ingredients can be beneficial, it’s always best to consult with a medical professional for personalized advice.”
The Dos and Don’ts of Post-Tattoo Care
So, you’ve diligently avoided the culinary no-nos, but what else can you do to ensure your lip and eyebrow tattoos heal beautifully?
Do’s:
- Keep the area clean and moisturized.
- Use a gentle cleanser and apply a thin layer of ointment recommended by your tattoo artist.
- Protect your skin from the sun with a hat or sunscreen.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Be patient! Complete healing takes time.
Don’ts:
- Touch or scratch the tattooed area.
- Apply makeup to the healing skin.
- Swim in chlorinated pools or soak in hot tubs.
- Expose the area to excessive sweating.
Women getting ready in Hanoi
Your Hanoi Adventure Awaits!
Getting your lips or eyebrows tattooed in Hanoi can be a wonderful way to enhance your natural beauty. Just remember to follow these aftercare tips, explore the city’s culinary delights (while avoiding the temporary no-nos, of course!), and embrace the vibrant spirit of Hanoi!
And hey, if you need a reliable ride to explore the city’s hidden gems, TRAVELCAR has got you covered. From comfortable 16-seaters to spacious 45-seaters, we offer a range of vehicles to suit your travel needs. Contact us at 0372960696, email us at [email protected], or visit our office at 260 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội. We’re here to make your Hanoi experience unforgettable!
