If you have ever gotten a tattoo, you will know that you require a specific aftercare routine. Getting the right aftercare is very important for the proper healing of the tattoos.
If you do not care for your fresh tattoo, the color may fade easily, and your skin may even get infected. There are several different types of tattoo aftercare products.
They can include soap, lotion, creams, ointments, bandages, wraps, etc. You may use one or multiple products, but it always depends upon what your tattoo artist recommends.
What Should You Use for Tattoo Aftercare?
As we mentioned earlier, tattoo aftercare comes in many different forms. Some of them are :
- Tattoo Aftercare Soap
- Tattoo Aftercare Cream
- Tattoo Aftercare Lotion
- Tattoo Aftercare Ointment
- Tattoo Aftercare Bandage
- Tattoo Enhancing Oil
- Tattoo Protection Sunscreen
Tattoo Aftercare Soap
A tattoo aftercare soap is a crucial step in your aftercare routine. Tattoo aftercare soap is usually an antibacterial soap, which helps clean your skin thoroughly and also helps disinfect it.
Always wash your tattoo with a tattoo wash or soap to prevent any dust or other contaminants from infecting your tattoo. After getting a fresh tattoo, the tattoo artist will usually wipe your tattoo with green soap or antibacterial soap.
This soap must be used every day to clean your healing tattoo until it is completely healed. This way you can ensure that your tattoo stays healthy and vibrant for long.
Top 3 Tattoo Aftercare Soaps
1. H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap
H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap is a foaming formula, that is great for cleaning tattoos.
The foaming formula allows you to wash the tattooed area gently, as there is no need to rub the area for creating a lather.
This green soap is antibacterial and kills almost all germs, leaving your skin sanitized and protected.
2. Cosco Pure Liquid Green Soap
Green Soap is used for cleaning all types of wounds. Whether it is from an operation, or it is a tattoo or even piercings.
This green soap is great for cleaning tattoos. To use this soap, simply take a few drops of the soap and rub it between your hands to create a lather, then rub the lather gently over your tattoo to clean it.
This soap may leave your skin feeling a bit dry, so it is recommended to follow up with a good moisturizer.
3. Ink Oil Tattoo Aftercare Products Ink Soap
Ink Oil Tattoo Aftercare Soap is not only used after the tattoo is done, it is also applied to the skin throughout the process of tattooing.
A small amount of soap should be added to distilled water to create a mild formula, which can be used by an artist throughout the tattooing process.
You can do the exact same for aftercare as well. The mild Castille soap leaves your skin feeling moisturized while also keeping your skin clean.
Tattoo Aftercare Cream or Butter
Tattoo Aftercare Creams and butter are very similar products. They generally have a thick formula, however, unlike a salve, they are quite moisturizing as well.
They are great for keeping your tattoo away from infections and for promoting faster healing. It also helps keep the tattooed area moisturized, which makes sure that the tattoo stays vibrant for longer.
Tattoo aftercare creams are usually thick, so they are best used right after getting a fresh tattoo. You can keep using them even after your tattoo has healed. They can be used along with a wrap as well.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Cream or Butter
1. Melao Tattoo Aftercare Butter Cream
Melao Tattoo Aftercare Butter Cream works as a lubricant while tattooing, and it also helps heal your tattoos faster.
It has a completely vegan formula that is enriched with Shea, Mango, Aloe butter, Coconut, Sunflower, Rice Bran oils, as well as several herbal extracts.
This cream can be applied to a healing tattoo, as well as already healed tattoos for moisturization. Last but not least, it prolongs the vibrancy of your tattoos and keeps them looking bright for years.
2. H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Cream
H2Ocean Tattoo Aftercare Cream is a simple cream formula that is specially made for tattoos.
Wash your tattoo gently with a mild soap, then apply a small amount of this cream and spread evenly.
This cream helps moisturize the tattoo, and it also helps the tattoo heal faster.
It is enriched with Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, and Aloe Vera Gel. This moisturizing formula keeps your tattoo from chaffing and helps preserve the colors.
3. Hustle Butter Deluxe
Hustle Butter Deluxe is an emollient cream that can be used for all steps of tattooing.
It can be used before, during, or after the tattooing process.
It lubricates the skin and makes tattooing a much less painful experience.
It contains some hydrating ingredients such as Shea, mango, aloe butter, etc. It helps heal your skin fast and efficiently. You can keep using this cream even after your tattoo is healed as a daily moisturizer for your tattoos.
Tattoo Aftercare Lotion
Tattoo Aftercare Lotions are a bit thinner in consistency than tattoo aftercare creams. These can be used for more regular use once your tattoo has started healing.
You can also use it on healed tattoos to keep them in good condition. Tattoo lotions are great for keeping the skin moisturized, which prevents chafing and promotes the life of your tattoos.
Tattoo Aftercare Lotions are perfect for larger tattooed areas as they are much easier to spread. Simply apply on clean skin to get the best results.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Lotions
1. INKredible Tattoo Aftercare Healing Ointment Lotion
INKredible Tattoo Aftercare Healing Ointment Lotion keeps your tattoos hydrated and moisturized.
This lotion is enriched with almond oil and lanolin, which helps prevent dry skin and itchiness.
It also helps extend the life of your tattoos by preserving the colors in the skin.
Use this lotion 3-4 times on your tattoo, after washing it thoroughly, throughout the day. It is free from petroleum jelly, so there is no build-up and it can also be removed easily.
2. Tattoo Goo – The Lotion
Tattoo Goo’s Lotion is a simple yet effective lotion that is great for tattoo aftercare.
It is enriched with Olive oil, and Vitamin Panthenol, which helps in skin healing.
Wash your healing tattoos with a mild soap, and apply a generous amount of lotion to your skin. It is especially great for larger areas as it has a liquid formula that is easy to spread.
3. After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer and Aftercare Lotion
After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer is used as an aftercare lotion. It keeps your tattoos moisturized, thus preventing redness or irritations.
It contains grapeseed oil, which promotes faster healing.
This formula is great for both new tattoos as well as old tattoos.
It has a non-allergic formula and it is dermatologically tested for safety. A little bit of this product can be spread over a large area of the skin, so one bottle will last you a long time.
Tattoo Aftercare Ointment
Tattoo Aftercare Balm or Salve is usually oily in texture and it creates a barrier on the skin. Tattoo Aftercare Ointment is usually applied right after a tattoo is done. It is also advisable to apply this ointment to help heal the skin faster.
There are several types of ointment available in the market but the most commonly used ointment contains Vitamin A and Vitamin E.
Both of which are great for healing the skin and for helping the tattoo stay vibrant. It may also contain other ingredients which promote skin healing.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Ointment
1. Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Balm
Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Balm is used commonly on fresh tattoos for creating an antiseptic barrier.
It is commonly used along with a bandage, to help seal in the tattoo from any environmental contaminants.
This balm, however, also helps prolong the life of your tattoos, when used regularly. It contains Vitamin E and rosemary extract which helps your skin heal faster. Do not apply too much of the product, simply apply enough to cover the whole area in a shiny coating.
2. Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm can be used before, during, and after tattooing.
This balm contains no harsh chemicals, and it has a 100% vegan formula.
It is a non-greasy balm, which glides onto the skin effortlessly providing a smooth lubricated base to work on.
When used as an aftercare product, it can increase the life of your tattoo and keep the colors looking vibrant.
3. Tazay Tattoo Aftercare VITAMIN A&D Ointment
Tazay Tattoo Aftercare VITAMIN A&D Ointment contains the essential ingredients which boost skin healing and prevent scarring.
It also prevents itchiness and irritation. These ointments come in individual packets so that you don’t have to carry around a big jar with you everywhere.
The individual packets also keep it sanitary. It helps heal your tattoos faster and effectively.
Tattoo Aftercare Bandage
When you get a tattoo, the skin is an open wound. So to protect the skin and the tattoo, the tattooed area is covered by a clear bandage for at least 1 day.
This is to prevent any bacteria or other infections from entering the body. While the tattoo is covered with a bandage, the skin will start to heal. The bandage is also waterproof, which helps keep the tattoo sanitary.
These wraps or bandages are breathable, so your tattoo will heal properly. After one day, when you take the bandage off, it is not essential to put another bandage on anymore.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Bandages
1. Gozahad Tattoo Aftercare Bandage
Gozahad Tattoo Aftercare Bandage adheres well to the skin, while also keeping the area waterproof.
The bandage is preserved between two protective layers, which helps keep it sanitary.
This bandage should be kept on the skin for at least 24 hours after you get a fresh tattoo.
It increases the saturation of the tattoo and keeps it away from infections or dirt. The bandage has gridlines, which allow you to cut it in different shapes as well, when necessary.
2. Saniderm Tattoo Aftercare Bandage
Saniderm Tattoo Aftercare Bandage helps lock the moisture of your body which in turn makes the tattoo heal more effectively.
This way your tattoo will not scab, and the colors will appear more vibrant. It also makes sure that your tattoo does not become dry.
This breathable bandage allows oxygen to pass through, yet it keeps the tattoo waterproof.
This medical-grade aftercare bandage is sure to help your tattoo heal faster.
3. KeyEntre Tattoo Aftercare Waterproof Bandage
This bandage helps lock in the colors of your tattoo, which extends the life of your tattoo significantly.
The medical-grade tattoo aftercare bandage needs to be applied on a fresh tattoo, to keep it away from water, dirt, and any other contaminants.
The breathable bandage allows enough oxygen for your skin to heal, but it keeps out moisture.
The gridlines on the back of the bandage allow you to cut it into any size you want.
Tattoo Enhancing Oil
Tattoo Oil is typically used for enhancing the appearance of your tattoos. You can use a dab of oil to make your tattoo look shinier and brighter.
However, just like any oil, it is also beneficial for your skin, as it keeps your skin moisturized.
So if you use a tattoo oil regularly, it will keep your skin moisturized and hence it will make your tattoo look more vibrant naturally. Tattoo Oil is recommended to be used once your tattoo has healed completely.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Enhancing Oils
1. Ink Oil Tattoo Aftercare- Inked Oil
Inked Oil is a highly moisturizing formula that is great for both healing tattoos as well as healed tattoos.
This oil will make your tattoos look shinier and brighter instantly.
It contains all-natural ingredients such as grapeseed oil, coconut oil, and several essential oils.
So, if you are looking for a product that makes your tattoos look good while also keeping them healthy, then this is the perfect product for you.
2. Tatjacket Vibrant Tattoo Shine Spray
Tatjacket Vibrant Tattoo Shine Spray is meant to make your tattoos look brighter instantly, without adding any greasiness or artificial shine.
This oil also moisturizes your tattooed skin, which helps keep the tattoos healthy.
This oil is so lightweight, that you would not even feel it on your skin.
3. Kiwi Glow Tattoo Aftercare
Kiwi Glow Tattoo Aftercare is an oil-based moisturizer specially made for your tattoos.
It contains cold-pressed sesame oil, which penetrates the skin and moisturizes from the inside.
It contains several antioxidants as well as Vitamins A, E, and B complex.
These ingredients help fight skin aging, keeping your tattoos bright and beautiful for a long time.
Tattoo Aftercare Sunscreen
Tattoos are susceptible to fading when they are exposed to sunlight. You should never apply sunscreen to a fresh or healing tattoo. Tattoo sunscreen should only be applied after the tattoo has healed completely.
Sunscreen will make sure that your tattoo does not fade or become uneven. Use a generous amount of sunscreen on your tattoo and re-apply every 3 to 4 hours throughout the day.
It is important to always protect your tattoos when you are going out in the sun.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Sunscreens
1. Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick
Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick provides protection against sun damage and keeps your tattoo looking vibrant for a long time.
The stick formula is easy to apply and spread. The pocket-friendly SPF stick can be carried around with you, so you can re-apply the sunscreen after every few hours for maximum protection.
2. CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen
As your tattoos start to age, they become more prone to fading.
This is where a sunscreen such as CannaSmack Ink Guard comes in.
This SPF 30 Sunscreen will protect your tattoos from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
It is infused with premium hemp seed oil, which contains Omega-3, Omega-6, Vitamin A, B, D, & E, providing your skin with the required nourishment and moisturization as well.
3. Tattoo Care Sunscreen
Tattoo Care Sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
The SPF 30 formula protects your tattoos from fading and keeps them looking vibrant for a long time.
It has a water-resistant formula, so you can use this sunscreen on your tattoos even when you are in the pool or on the beach.
It is packed with natural ingredients such as Bisabolol, Calendula, Cocoa butter, Jojoba, and Vitamin A and E, which help rejuvenate your skin as well.
Tattoo Aftercare Kits
If you are looking for an assortment of products that will help heal your tattoo properly, then you should go for a tattoo aftercare kit.
These kits usually contain an antiseptic soap and a salve or balm with healing properties.
You may receive a lotion or a cream instead of a salve as well. These two basic steps will help keep your tattoo clean and moisturized. It will help your tattoo heal fast and easily.
Top 3 Best Tattoo Aftercare Kits
1. Billy Jealousy Complete Tattoo Care Kit
Billy Jealousy Complete Tattoo Care Kit contains a tattoo aftercare salve, a tattoo wash, and a lotion.
You must wash your tattoo first with the tattoo wash, then apply a small amount of salve or lotion depending upon the state of your tattoos.
If they are fresh, then the salve is a better option, if the tattoo is already healed, then apply a generous amount of the lotion for best results.
This kit will help prolong the life of your tattoos and keep them looking vibrant for a long time.
2. INK the original Tattoo Lotion and Wash Set
INK the original Tattoo Aftercare kit includes a tattoo body wash and an aftercare lotion.
This kit is ideal for those who have tattoos all over their body.
The special formula of the tattoo wash keeps your tattoos vibrant and clean.
The lotion contains aloe vera, which helps keep the skin moisturized and also helps prolong the life of your tattoos. It is fragrance-free, so you don’t have to worry about irritation or allergies.
3. Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit contains all the essentials that are required for a healing tattoo.
This kit contains a tattoo wash, tattoo goo balm, aftercare lotion, and sunscreen.
If you have a fresh tattoo, then wash the area gently with the tattoo wash, and then apply a small amount of the tattoo balm.
If your tattoo is healed, then you should apply the lotion and cover it with sunscreen after you have cleaned your skin. This is one of the best tattoo aftercare kits, and it helps keep your tattoo vibrant and healthy for a long time.
Final Words:
Tattoo Aftercare is one of the most important parts of getting a tattoo. You may be excited about your new tattoo, but unless you care for it well, the tattoo would not look good for too long.
Proper tattoo aftercare involves proper cleaning of the tattoo and proper moisturization. Now that you know about the importance of aftercare, you may choose a combination of the products listed above or you can go for an aftercare kit from our list.
