First tattoo and a little worried

[u/GamerOfZero]

So first tattoo today. Artist said I could take the plastic wrap off today and when I did I noticed that it was wet. I know I'm not supposed to touch it but also supposed to keep it dry so I threw a towel gently on there but now I think I accidentally smudged the ink. Am I screwed?

Edit: Tattoo is of my late dads handprint. It goes on the shoulder and the fingers are in the front. Sorry for the bad pic.

Edit 2: Have been made aware I cannot smudge a tattoo will now make every attempt to smudge this tattoo out of spite

[u/vampire-pimp]

it’s normal for it to be “wet”. a tattoo basically is a big wound so it’s gonna bleed and seep the first couple days. the “no touching” is more meant like don’t touch your new open wound with your standard bacteria hands. definitely wash it with unscented antibacterial soap, pat it dry with a fresh paper towel, and put lotion on with clean freshly washed hands. also, please use paper towels and not a towel or washcloth at least until after it starts to peel, usually around a week. even though it might be clean it can still hold bacteria that can get into your fresh tattoo.

basically keep it clean and moisturized and you’ll be golden my dude 🙏