When it comes to tattoo aftercare, using the right lotion is crucial. A good lotion helps protect your skin, prevents dryness and flakiness, and even reduces itching – which is especially important since a healing tattoo is essentially an open wound. With so many options available, choosing the perfect lotion can be overwhelming. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of top-notch lotions and analyzed their benefits. From budget-friendly to premium options, we’ll cover it all.
In addition to providing moisture and relief from discomfort, a good tattoo lotion should also be free of ingredients that can irritate your skin. By considering the types of lotions available, the key ingredients to look out for, and our top 10 picks, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect lotion for your new ink.
Some of our favorite options include Aquaphor Healing Ointment for its overall effectiveness, Hustle Butter Deluxe for its premium quality, Eucerin Advanced Repair for its budget-friendly price tag, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option or something with added benefits like brightening, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look for in a Tattoo Lotion
When evaluating tattoo lotions, it’s essential to weigh multiple factors. First and foremost, consider the composition of the product, taking note of the ingredients used. Additionally, think about the texture of the lotion itself – is it light and non-greasy or thicker and more moisturizing? Furthermore, don’t forget to factor in your individual skin type, as certain lotions may be better suited to dry skin, while others are designed for oily complexions.
Types of Lotions
Lotions offer a range of benefits for tattoos, extending beyond the traditional creamy blend. Various formulas cater to different needs and preferences. Creams, typically thicker and more moisturizing, provide a gentle barrier that allows skin to breathe. Many creams contain natural ingredients like coconut and olive oil. However, some may leave behind a residue. For those seeking a non-greasy option, consider After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer.
In contrast, balms are designed to sit atop the skin, offering protection without absorption. They often feature beeswax, which soothes and repairs skin, but lack deep moisturizing properties. Their primary purpose is to shield the tattoo from external factors, rather than providing intense hydration. Ointments, thicker and more medicinal in nature, combine herbs and essential oils to accelerate healing and prevent infection.
While effective, they require caution, as excessive application can impede breathing and prolong healing. Salves, a subset of ointments, possess similar healing properties but exhibit softer consistency, allowing for deeper deposition of their formulas without obstructing skin respiration. Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve is an exemplary salve on our list that leverages these benefits.
Top 10 Best Lotions for Tattoos 2024
Best Overall Tattoo Lotion: Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Aquaphor is a top pick among tattoo artists and their clients due to its fragrance-free formula that can be applied to any area of the face or body. Its unique properties make it an excellent choice for providing extra protection during the healing process, while still allowing oxygen to reach the skin. As an ointment, it forms a semi-occlusive barrier, offering a level of moisture retention without blocking essential airflow.
This lotion is particularly ideal for sensitive areas or delicate tattoos, as its fragrance and coloring-free design ensures a gentle, non-reactive experience. However, it’s crucial to note that Aquaphor may not be the best long-term solution, as its thick consistency can become too heavy for prolonged use. In such cases, a lightweight lotion like Aveeno Sheer Hydration might be a more suitable option.
Overall, Aquaphor excels in providing short-term protection and moisture during the initial healing phases, making it an excellent choice for tattoo enthusiasts seeking a reliable and gentle solution.
Best Premium Tattoo Lotion: Hustle Butter Deluxe
Hustle Butter Deluxe stands out as a top-notch aftercare lotion for all stages of the tattoo healing process. This vegan and 100% natural cream boasts a potent combination of shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E. While it does have a subtle scent derived from its natural ingredients, this premium lotion is ideal for those seeking a gentle, non-irritating product for their healing skin. The texture is silky smooth, leaving the skin feeling remarkably soft and supple.
In fact, tattoo artists can even use it to pre-treat skin before the inking process, reducing discomfort and making the experience more comfortable. Once the tattoo has fully healed, Hustle Butter Deluxe remains a trusted ally in maintaining healthy, soft skin. Although it may take a few minutes for the lotion to fully absorb into the skin, this minor drawback is easily outweighed by its numerous benefits.
For those seeking an equally moisturizing alternative that absorbs faster, consider After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer. Among its pros are its vegan and natural credentials, silky texture, softening properties, and subtle scent. The only con is the slightly longer absorption time.
Best Budget Tattoo Lotion: Eucerin Advanced Repair
Eucerin Advanced Repair is a top choice among tattoo enthusiasts due to its exceptional ability to reduce itchiness and provide long-lasting hydration. The lotion’s large 16.9-ounce bottle offers great value for the price, making it an affordable option for those looking to alleviate dry skin and itching during the healing process. With up to 48 hours of relief from dryness and itchiness, Eucerin is a reliable solution for maintaining healthy-looking skin.
The inclusion of ceramide-3, a natural component found in the skin’s barrier, further enhances its benefits by providing an added boost to skin protection and hydration. While it may not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin due to its presence of preservatives, Eucerin remains an excellent option for many users. However, some individuals may find the lotion’s sticky texture a drawback, prompting them to explore alternative products like Sanibalm Plus for easier application.
Best Tattoo Balm: Viking Revolution Tattoo Balm
Viking Revolution’s Tattoo Balm stands out due to its chemical-free formula, which combines the soothing properties of chamomile extract with the nourishing power of grapeseed oil, shea butter, and beeswax. This unique blend provides light moisturization and protection for tattoos, making it a great option for those on-the-go. The balm’s texture is slightly firmer than usual, but it effortlessly melts into the skin as applied.
Although Viking Revolution claims their product to be vegan, the presence of beeswax means it’s actually not suitable for those with dietary restrictions. For a certified vegan alternative, consider Hustle Butter Deluxe instead. As some users have experienced adverse reactions due to the high concentration of extracts, we recommend performing a patch test on small, normal skin areas before applying the balm to your tattoo.
In our assessment, this product’s pros outweigh its cons, with benefits including chamomile extract for calming skin, easy-to-carry tin, and chemical-free formula. However, users should be aware of potential rashes and non-vegan ingredients.
Best Organic Tattoo Lotion: Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve
Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve stands out for its impressive array of plant-based ingredients that facilitate wound healing, mirroring the all-natural and vegan Hustle Butter. The editor’s rating highlights this salve as an excellent choice for those seeking organic options. Key details include: Lotion Type: Salve; Active Ingredients: Grapeseed Oil, Comfrey, Beeswax, Vitamin E.
Notably, while it contains beeswax, making it non-vegan, all ingredients are carefully selected to prevent infection and promote healing. The addition of comfrey is particularly noteworthy in reducing inflammation and accelerating the healing process. This natural powerhouse is a top pick for anyone looking to hasten tattoo recovery and showcase their artwork sooner rather than later. However, the abundance of herbs and essential oils yields a potent, herbal aroma that may overwhelm some users.
For those who prefer fragrance-free products, Aquaphor Healing Ointment presents an attractive alternative. On the plus side, this salve boasts: Essential oils to prevent infection; Organic ingredients; Added comfrey for wound healing. On the downside: Strong herbal scent.
Best Absorbing Tattoo Lotion: After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer
The After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer stands out for its impressive combination of benefits. The lotion’s non-greasy formula, infused with orange oil to reduce inflammation, allows for quick absorption and hydration of the skin. This rapid absorption eliminates the need to wait around for a balm or other product to take effect. Additionally, the moisturizer is certified PETA cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize animal welfare.
The blend of grapeseed oil, shea butter, and orange oil provides soothing relief to wounded skin, even after laser tattoo removal. While some may find the lotion’s thicker texture a drawback, it still offers effective moisturization. For those seeking an alternative with a thinner consistency, Eucerin Advanced Repair is a viable option.
Best Tattoo Salve: Tattoo Goo Original
Tattoo Goo’s reputation as a go-to aftercare product is well-deserved, thanks to its unique blend of olive oil, beeswax, and wheat germ oil. The latter ingredient, in particular, plays a crucial role in promoting skin health by locking in moisture and boosting blood circulation. This dual approach not only accelerates the healing process but also helps reduce swelling and alleviate any discomfort associated with new tattoos.
The addition of olive oil and lavender oil further enhances the product’s soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. And because a little goes a long way, the compact tin is more than sufficient to see you through the entire healing process without worrying about waste or running out.
However, it’s worth noting that Tattoo Goo’s formula does contain colorings and has a noticeably greasier consistency compared to some of its competitors.
This may be a drawback for those who plan to cover their tattooed areas with clothing frequently, as the lotion can stain fabrics. If you’re looking for a less oily option with similar benefits, Viking Revolution’s balm is definitely worth considering.
Best Lightweight Tattoo Lotion: Aveeno Sheer Hydration
For over six decades, Aveeno has consistently produced a high-quality, lightweight lotion that caters to both new tattoos and sensitive skin. This product’s exceptional soothing properties make it an excellent choice for individuals with delicate epidermal layers. The inclusion of oat extracts serves as a triple threat – preventing itchiness, acting as inflammatory agents, and protecting the skin from damage while also functioning as antioxidants, allowing the skin to repair itself.
The sheer, non-greasy texture of this lotion makes it easy to apply and won’t overpower your tattoo. While Aveeno Sheer Hydration is suitable for long-term tattoo care due to its lightweight consistency, it’s essential to note that it contains strong preservatives like phenoxyethanol, which can cause skin irritation. As such, it’s not recommended for use around sensitive areas or the face. If you’re looking for a completely preservative-free option, Ink Scribd is an excellent alternative.
The pros of this product include its suitability for long-term use, lightweight formula, soothing properties, and gentle nature on sensitive skin. However, its cons include its ineffectiveness around the face and the presence of strong preservatives.
Best Roll-On Tattoo Lotion: Sanibalm Plus Roll-On Balm
Sanibalm is a standout product that has won our hearts due to its impressive combination of versatility and hydration. This lotion is packaged in an easy-to-use roll-on stick, making it effortless to apply directly onto your skin. The blend of coconut oil, sea buckthorn, and silver nanoparticles creates a potent formula that not only moisturizes but also promotes healing and repair of chronically dry skin.
Silver nanoparticles are particularly effective at increasing the delivery of beneficial ingredients into the skin, while sea buckthorn is renowned for its ability to treat damaged skin. This product is perfect for anyone looking to maximize the benefits from their lotion. One of the standout features of Sanibalm is its mess-free application process – simply roll up a small amount and gently rub it onto your skin. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are always on-the-go.
However, it’s essential to note that Sanibalm may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin due to the combination of nanoparticles and herbal ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or irritation. As a precaution, we recommend performing a patch test elsewhere on your body before applying the lotion to your tattoo.
Best Brightening Tattoo Lotion: Ink Scribd Aftercare Ointment
Ink Scribd stands out as a top choice for those seeking to enhance the vibrancy of their tattoo’s color. Its unique blend of coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter creates an ointment-like texture that effectively protects and nourishes the skin while bringing out the best in your ink. This lotion is versatile enough to be used on both new and old tattoos, with impressive results after just a few weeks of consistent use.
What’s more, Ink Scribd offers a 365-day money-back guarantee, providing ample time to experience the benefits before committing to the product. While some users may find the added essential oils, including citrus extracts, potentially drying to their skin, this lotion remains an excellent option for those looking to revitalize their tattoo’s colors.
If you’re concerned about dryness and itching, however, you may want to consider a more hydrating alternative, such as After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer. Ultimately, Ink Scribd’s pros – including its color-enhancing properties, suitability for old tattoos, and robust guarantee – make it an attractive choice for many tattoo enthusiasts.
Your Guide to Tattoo Care
While the inking process may be the most exciting part of getting a new tattoo, it’s the aftercare that requires your attention to ensure proper healing. In fact, improper care can lead to complications and negatively impact the appearance of your fresh ink. To help you navigate this often daunting process, we’ve distilled our guide to tattoo care into key takeaways.
From applying topical ointments to avoiding certain activities, it’s essential to follow a consistent routine to promote healthy healing. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy your new tattoo without worrying about the potential pitfalls that can arise during the recovery period.
Tattoo Aftercare Guidelines
When it comes to caring for tattoos, there are certain guidelines that can help you navigate the process with confidence. While our basic tips should serve as a solid foundation, always remember to consult with your tattoo artist and follow any specific care instructions they provide. Initially, leave the bandage applied by your artist intact for 3-24 hours, depending on their guidance. During this time, it’s essential to keep your tattoo covered, even if you need to change the bandage.
For the first 24 hours, maintain a protective barrier over your new ink to safeguard against any potential complications. As the healing process begins, you’ll want to wash your tattoo at least twice daily. Use a mild soap and your hands (avoid scrubbing or exfoliating) to gently clean the area, followed by patting it dry with a clean towel or paper towels. This washing routine should continue for at least a month as your tattoo fully heals.
One crucial aspect of proper care is avoiding direct contact with your tattoo. Resist the urge to touch it, even if you’re experiencing itching or peeling sensations. Scratching or peeling can cause damage to the skin, and the only instances where you should be touching your new ink are during washing and lotion application. After 2-3 days (again, depending on your artist’s guidance), you’ll be able to start applying a fragrance-free lotion to your tattoo after washing.
This will help keep your skin hydrated and protected, reducing the risk of dryness or irritation. For more information on selecting the right lotion for your tattoo, we’ve got a comprehensive guide available.
Tattoo Healing Speed
The healing process of a tattoo can take anywhere from two to six months, depending on various factors such as placement, size, and care routine. The initial stage, which typically lasts around seven days, involves redness, fluid leakage, or ink discharge – all normal phenomena that subside within the first week. As your skin begins to itch and flake during weeks one and two, applying a lotion consistently becomes crucial in minimizing discomfort.
This is also when you start seeing some peeling, which is a natural part of the healing process.
The second stage, spanning from the end of the second week to around three weeks post-tattooing, is characterized by ongoing peeling and skin shedding. It’s essential not to hasten this process by trying to speed up the peeling or pulling off dead skin, as this can lead to infections or dirt entering the wound. Instead, maintain a consistent aftercare routine to promote healthy healing.
After about a month, your tattoo should appear fully healed, with minimal signs of peeling, flaking, or dry skin, and the surrounding area looking normal. While it may take several more months for your tattoo to fully heal beneath the surface, once you’ve reached this stage, the risk of infections and complications decreases significantly.
To encourage quick healing, focus on diligent aftercare: wash and moisturize your tattoo daily, avoid submerging it in water, and keep it out of direct sunlight. The more oxygen your tattoo receives, the faster it will heal, so try not to cover it up excessively or rebandage it until 24 hours have passed.
How Long Should Lotion Be Used?
While it’s crucial to maintain consistent moisture for your new tattoo, it’s equally important not to overdo it. During the initial two-week period, you should aim to apply lotion every 2-3 times a day, or about 8-12 applications in total. After this introductory phase, you can gradually reduce frequency to once or twice daily.
Some individuals choose to continue moisturizing their tattoos for extended periods, even months or years after the initial healing process, to preserve the vibrant appearance of the ink.
Natural Alternatives to Lotion
When it comes to caring for your new tattoo, many people opt for store-bought lotions and creams. However, there are some excellent alternatives that can provide similar benefits without the harsh chemicals. One of the most effective is coconut oil, which offers a unique combination of moisturizing properties and antimicrobial qualities. This means it not only keeps your skin hydrated but also helps to prevent infection and promote healing.
In addition to its natural antibacterial properties, coconut oil has been shown to aid in wound recovery, making it an ideal choice for new tattoos. Other natural oils like vitamin E and grapeseed can also be used as alternatives, providing a gentle moisturizing effect that allows the skin to ‘breathe’ while still keeping it hydrated. As with any new skincare product, however, it’s essential to consult with your tattoo artist or doctor before introducing a new lotion or oil into your routine.
How to Sleep With a New Tattoo
For the initial 24 hours following your tattoo procedure, it’s crucial to leave the bandaging intact and avoid touching it altogether. This safeguards your new tattoo from coming into contact with bedding or potentially staining areas on your mattress. As you enter the next couple of nights, gently reapply a bandage while ensuring it doesn’t constrict blood flow to the affected area.
Choose sleeping positions that don’t place direct pressure on the tattooed skin, such as shifting to your non-tattooed side if you have a hip tattoo on the right. Moreover, prioritize rotating your bed sheets frequently throughout the healing process to minimize the risk of dust, dirt, or residue accumulation, which can compromise the integrity and potentially infect your tattoo.
Showering With Your Tattoo
After the initial 24-hour healing period has passed, you’re cleared to shower your new tattoo – but with some crucial precautions. Begin by using a gentle, fragrance-free soap (Dove or Dial sensitive-skin options are recommended) and avoid direct shower streams. Instead, cup your hands with water and splash it onto your tattoo, taking care not to agitate the ink. The temperature of the shower should also be kept in check; extreme heat can cause skin dryness and subsequent itchiness.
Following the shower, pat your tattoo dry using a clean towel or paper towels. Be meticulous when drying – avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this may lead to infection or damage to the tattoo’s appearance. Once dry, apply your preferred lotion to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Dealing With Tattoo Pain
For most individuals, their tattoo will experience some level of soreness for around 3 to 7 days after the initial procedure. The duration and intensity of this discomfort largely depend on the aftercare routine followed and the location of the tattoo. To mitigate any pain or itching sensations, it’s crucial to minimize friction around the affected area. This can be achieved by wearing loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t rub or constantly come into contact with the skin.
When possible, consider going without clothing altogether for a short period to allow the skin to breathe and heal properly. Additionally, take extra precautions while walking or engaging in physical activities to avoid accidental bumps or scrapes, which can cause lasting damage if not managed carefully during the first few weeks of healing.
For added relief, opt for lotions containing anti-inflammatory ingredients like those found in Aveeno Sheer Hydration or Ora’s Herbal Tattoo Salve when moisturizing your tattoo.
What to Do When Your Tattoo Isn’t Healing
If your tattoo is exhibiting signs of distress, it’s crucial that you consult with both your tattoo artist and doctor as soon as possible. While rare due to improved hygiene practices, infections can still occur and lead to undesirable complications. If left unchecked, they can even have serious consequences. Potential indicators of infection include unusual redness or itchiness, swelling, discoloration, or discharge around the affected area.
A fever or chills accompanying these symptoms demands immediate medical attention. Preventing such issues is largely dependent on proper washing and aftercare techniques, including the use of sterile lotions like those listed among our recommendations.
Tattoo FAQs
As your tattoo heals, you may have some pressing questions that require swift answers. Fortunately, we’re here to provide clarity on the most common concerns. One of the most asked questions is whether a tattoo will lose color during the healing process. The short answer is yes – as your tattoo starts to peel in the first week or so after getting inked, you may notice some blurriness or fading. However, this should dissipate once the dead skin layer falls off.
Your tattoo might not retain its initial vibrancy once completely healed, but using a tattoo brightening lotion like Ink Scribd can help restore its former glory. It’s worth noting that certain colors – such as yellow, hot pink, white, and light green – tend to fade faster over time, while red and black are more resilient. Another common misconception is the use of Vaseline on new tattoos. Unfortunately, this petroleum jelly is not recommended for several reasons.
Firstly, it can trap moisture against your skin, preventing essential airflow that’s crucial for proper healing. Secondly, Vaseline seals in dirt and germs, potentially leading to infections that may hinder the healing process and even cause scarring. As you wait patiently for your tattoo to heal, you might notice some raised or bumpy areas on the surface of your skin. This is a natural response as your skin tries to repair the trauma inflicted by the tattooing process.
In most cases, this bumpiness should subside as your aftercare routine and the tattoo continue to heal. However, if you experience any signs of infection – such as redness, swelling, or pus – it’s essential to seek advice from your tattoo artist or a medical professional immediately to prevent any potential damage. Finally, one of the most frustrating aspects of the healing process is the peeling stage, which typically lasts anywhere from one to two weeks.
As your skin sheds its top layer, you’ll start to see the vibrant colors of your design emerge. This marks the final stages of the tattoo healing process.
The Best Lotion for You
When it comes to choosing the ideal lotion for your skin, consider what you’re looking for in a product. Do you need something that not only moisturizes but also calms any irritation or itching? With so many lotions on the market today, each with its own unique formula, it’s essential to think about which ingredients and benefits are most important to you. This approach will help you find the perfect lotion for your needs, ultimately leading to a wonderfully healed tattoo.
