15 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products, According To Reviews (2024)
From prepping your skin to taking care of the finished tattoo, they do it all!
Tommy is a New York-based makeup artist with over a decade of experience. He originally hails from Los Angeles and Tokyo and is largely inspired by color, organic life, and spirituality. Tommy has been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue Runway, Vogue Italia, Vanguard, Playbill, and Worldwide, among others.
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Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
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If you love body art and tattoos, you should also know that it doesn’t end at getting a tattoo. You also need to care for it properly using the best tattoo aftercare products. These products help keep your tattoo smooth, soft, and infection-free. Also, these aftercare products help in the quick healing of the tattooed area. But, finding the right product could be difficult as there is a flood of tried-and-tested options on the market. So, keep reading this article to explore our compilation of the best tattoo aftercare products. Scroll down!
In This Article
15 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products
1. Best Overall:Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Care Balm
Many tattoo artists worldwide prefer the Hustle Butter Delux Tattoo Care Balm, thanks to its multiple benefits. The balm preps your skin for the tattoo process by making your skin soft and supple. It also provides post-tattoo moisturizing and healing benefits to your skin. “I personally use this product for all my tattoo care,” recommends Professional Makeup Artist, Tommy Tafoya, “It helps moisturize and heal the skin, and it feels light and nourishing without the stickiness.” The expert-recommended balm is enriched with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, mango, aloe butter, and coconut oil. These ingredients help reduce redness, swelling, and bleeding and promote fast healing. The balm has a nice fragrance and is perfect for a daily skincare routine to heal dry, cracked skin and make it soft and smooth. If you want to know more about the exceptional results of this product, take a look at this video showcasing a reviewer’s experience with it.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Mango, Aloe butter, and Coconut oil
Pros
- Easy to use
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 20,602 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Pro Tip2. Best For Skin Inflammation:Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve
The Ora’s Aamzing Herbal Tattoo Salve promotes fast healing and minimizes itchiness. It is formulated with herbal extracts like grapeseed, calendula, comfrey, rosemary, thyme, coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin E. These ingredients promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and the risk of infection in the tattooed area. The salve has a mild herbal fragrance and keeps the skin supple and smooth. It does not clog pores or leach off the colors from your tattoo. The product’s healing property makes it useful in treating everyday scrapes, burns, and bruises. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience with this tattoo salve for more information about the product.
Note: Do a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, Calendula, and Comfrey
Pros
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Lanolin-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Mineral oil-free
- Gluten-free
- Dyes-free
- Petroleum-free
Cons
- May cause allergic reaction
"This tattoo aftercare balm soothes my sensitive skin. It minimizes itching and promotes healing without being overpowering in scent or texture. It is easy to apply and has become a go-to for everyday dry skin issues."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 6,918 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
3. Best Non-Greasy:Viking Revolution Tattoo Balm
Soothe your tattooed area and keep your skin moisturized with the Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm. It contains organic and natural ingredients to keep the skin moisturized and ensure proper healing. The expertly crafted balm does not contain petroleum and has a non-greasy finish with a gentle fragrance. You can also apply the balm on old tattoos to keep them moisturized. The balm is suitable for prepping the skin before getting a tattoo to make the application process smoother. If you are still unsure about purchasing, you can check out this video detailing a tester’s experience with this product.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter and Coconut oil
Pros
- Vegan
- Chemical-free
- Petroleum-free
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
| Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Care Balm | Ora's Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve | Viking Revolution Tattoo Balm | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 inches | - | 1.14 x 2.87 x 2.87 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 Ounces | - | 2.89 Ounces |
| Color | - | Tattoo 4 oz | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 20,602 | 6,918 | 11,146 |
| Price | $37.7 | $36.99 | $9.88 |
4. Best Antibacterial:Hustle Bubbles Tattoo Soap
The Hustle Bubbles Tattoo Soap is fantastic for post-tattoo and piercing care. It keeps new tattoos and piercings clean during the recovery to minimize discomfort and avoid infection. Several reviewers love this vegan-friendly soap because it is made from all-natural ingredients. It is a hydrating and antibacterial soap free from parabens or other harmful ingredients that could irritate your skin. This antimicrobial soap safely removes impurities and dead skin cells from your tattoo which frequently makes the ink appear dull.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Vegan
- Hydrating
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May cause a skin reaction
5. Best For All Skin Types:H2Ocean Ocean-Care Skin Moisturizing Cream
Nourish, revitalize and hydrate your tattooed skin with H2Ocean Ocea-care skin moisturizing cream. It has a water-based and petroleum-free formula that creates a protective skin barrier and prevents bacterial infection in the tattooed area. The cream is enriched with 82 essential trace elements and minerals that keep your tattoo healthy and well moisturized. According to reviews, it reduces the chances of infection and helps in preserving your new tattoo. The cream is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Sea salt, Aloe vera gel, and Rosehip seed oil
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Petroleum-free
- Does not stick to the skin
Cons
- Contains parabens
- Contains alcohol
6. Best Natura:Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel
The Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Gel works quickly to reduce irritability and the itching of a new or old tattoo. It is a super-soothing, cooling, and healing gel with anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and anti-aging components. The lightweight oils in the formula repair damaged skin and restore the natural moisture barrier. It is also infused with natural antioxidants that counteract environmental influences that can aggravate your ink further. Reviewers agree that this non-comedogenic tattoo aftercare gel helps keep the skin calm and less irritated and itchy.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Bisabolol, and Allantoin
Pros
- Clean ingredients
- Soothing
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Water-resitant
Cons
- May cause an allergic reaction
"This tattoo aftercare product maintains the vibrancy of my ink. It soothes my skin and is ideal for the drier areas. I like how it reduces the itchiness commonly associated with fresh tattoos. I apply it carefully to avoid clothing sticking and potential ink loss."
Pro Tip7. Best Affordable:ScalpaProdigy Permanent Makeup Hemp Aftercare Balm
This aftercare balm by ScalpaProdigy contains soothing and natural ingredients that encourage safe and healthy recovery after tattoo procedures. It contains nourishing active ingredients like hemp seed oil and aloe vera extract that provide intense moisturization and relief from redness and inflammation. These ingredients reduce discomfort, ensures fast recovery, and preserves the color intensity of older tattoos.
Key Ingredients: Hemp seed oil, Beeswax, Aloe vera, and Arnica montana
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Safe for all skin types
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
"This balm soothes my skin. I like its moisture-rich formula that revitalizes even the older tattoos without a greasy feel. It is great for my sensitive skin and also doubles as a nourishing hand moisturizer."
8. Best For Skin Healing:Redemption Tattoo Lubricant & Aftercare
The Redemption Tattoo Lubricant &Aftercare is made of organic and natural ingredients. It can be used during tattooing to soothe the skin, and after tattooing to promote healing. The product contains nourishing ingredients like beeswax and cocoa butter. It keeps the skin lubricated to prevent the tattoo from cracking and boosts its vibrancy.
Key Ingredients: Cocoa butter and Beeswax
Pros
- Chemical-free
- Smells great
- 100% natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Fast absorbing
- USDA-certified
- Petroleum-free
Cons
- None
"This tattoo aftercare product spreads nicely and helps in quick healing. It is great for new tattoos and does not turn out to be sticky after some time. Not just tattoos, it also works to soothe the dry patches of my skin."
9. Best Vegan:After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer And Aftercare Lotion
The Tattoo Moisturizer And Aftercare Lotion duo from After Inked has a patented vegan formula that delivers ample moisturization to your skin and preserves the tattoo vibrancy. The formula is enriched with grape seed oil that penetrates the layers of your skin to moisturize it and provide relief from itching and scabbing. The healing lotion also works as a great tattoo removal aftercare product. It relieves dryness, does not cause allergic reactions, and can be used on other sensitive areas like lips, eyelids, and eyebrows. The daily moisture lotion is not tested on animals and is vegan, ensuring a guilt-free experience.
Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, Glycerin, and Beeswax
Pros
- Dermatologist tested
- Petroleum-free
- Allergen-free
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically tested
- Vegan
Cons
- None
"This lotion is ideal for tattoo aftercare. I must say that soothes my skin and gives my skin adequate support during the healing time. It absorbs well and does not cause any dryness."
10. Best Moisturizing:Sanibalm Nourishing Tattoo Aftercare Balm
The Sanibalm Nourishing Tattoo Aftercare Balm nourishes and heals the tattoo efficiently. It is an organic balm containing 100% natural and skin-loving active ingredients like sea buckthorn and coconut oil to minimize skin irritation and prevent infection and scabbing. Shea butter in the formula helps to keep the tattooed skin moisturized and hydrated all day. It promotes faster skin regeneration and protects and maintains the color and vibrancy of the tattoo. Unlike petroleum jelly ointments and other tattoo balms, this skin protectant and healing balm is petroleum-free which allows the tattoo the oxygen it requires to heal quickly.
Key Ingredients: Colloidal silver and Sea buckthorn seed oil
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to use
- Paraben-free
- Petroleum-free
- GMO-free
- Waterproof
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- None
"This product soothes irritation and its balm-like consistency settles well on my skin. I like how it reduces itching and supports my skin during the different stages of healing. It does not stain my clothes but I apply it carefully for the best results."
11. Best Ph Balanced:Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit
With this three-piece Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit, you can preserve the vibrant color and glow of your tattoo and take care of it. It includes a soap that provides broad-spectrum antibacterial and antimicrobial protection. The soap has a mild, pH-balanced formula, and the balm acts as a barrier to promote healing. The lotion in the recovery kit contains healix gold and panthenol to help avoid scabbing and hasten the healing process. This water-resistant kit contains all-natural ingredients that help your tattoo recover more quickly and restore moisture.
Key Ingredients: Healix gold and Panthenol
Pros
- Petroleum-free
- Contains natural ingredients
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Lanolin-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This tattoo kit is great for use after you make new tattoos. The soap is gentle and moisturizing and does not itch my skin. I like how the balm soothes my skin and makes it calmer. I use all the products in the kit sparingly as a little bit goes a long way."
12. Best Multipurpose:Ink Permanent Cleanskin Cleansing Tattoo Wipes
The Cleanskin Cleansing Tattoo Wipes make a great, all-in-one product for comprehensive tattoo care. They help remove excess ink and clean up impurities and fluids to ensure only the pigment stays for a smooth and even recovery. Perfect for tattoo and PMU artists, the wipes are made of 100% natural ingredients and clean the area in a single wipe effectively, making them safe and gentle for all skin types. Reviewers have testified that these pre-soaked, gentle cleansing wipes are ready to use straight out of the pack, which saves time and ensures a hygienic work environment.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Pre soaked
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Lint-free
Cons
- None
"These new tattoo wipes are gentle yet effective for skin prep and care during tattooing. I like how they soothe my skin to make sure that it stays calm while the tattoo is made. I love how it makes my skin feel smoother and softer."
13. Best For Tatttoo Protection:Sorry Mom Tattoo Aftercare Bandage
Take care of your tattooed area with the Sorry Mom Tattoo Aftercare Bandage. It enables faster healing while keeping the fresh ink dry and protected. The convenient grid design makes it easy to cut and size and apply to any body part. This clear tattoo bandage wrap offers optimum coverage and allows you to maintain an active lifestyle. The adhesive tattoo care film is also moisture-resistant and stretchable and helps the recovery process, keeping your tattoo clean and safe.
Key Ingredients: Olive oil, Jojoba oil, Calendula, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Transparent
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Hypoallergenic
- Stretchable
Cons
- May cause rashes and breakouts
"I applied this tattoo film quite easily, even on the trickier spots like the back of my neck. It stayed in place and kept my skin from drying out. I was shocked to witness that it also reduced itching significantly. I really recommend this for faster healing."
14. Best Long Lasting:Stories & Ink Tattoo Care Aftercare Cream
Get healthier-looking and nourished skin with the Stories and Ink Tattoo Care Aftercare Cream. It contains panthenol that reduces inflammation and redness to soothe and hydrate damaged skin. The fragrance-free formula also contains vitamin E, bisabolol, and other botanical blends to speed up healing and keep the skin moisturized. According to reviews, it has a non-greasy texture and allows your skin to breathe during recovery.
Key Ingredients: Panthenol, Vitamin E, and Bisabolol
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
- Vegan-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- None
"This tattoo aftercare lotion is ideal for my fresh ink. I like how it moisturizes my skin without feeling greasy. It is great for sensitive skin and does not leave any sticky residue behind. It blends well and reduces itchiness."
15. Best For Pain Relief:H2Ocean Nothing Tattoo Glide And Soothing Balm
The H2Ocean Nothing Tattoo Glide And Soothing Balm is all-natural and rich in nutrients. It contains 4% pain-relieving lidocaine that helps numb the skin, with effects lasting up to an hour. You can use it before, during, and after the tattoo session for continuous pain relief and intense healing. The organic formula also contains volcanic clay, beeswax, silver oxide, zinc oxide, and red sea salt that help heal the tattooed skin. This numbing balm also contains chamomile oil and golden jojoba seed oil that help soothe and protect the skin and improve skin elasticity. It is free of animal testing, ensuring a guilt-free experience.
Key Ingredients: Volcanic clay, Beeswax, Silver oxide, Zinc oxide, and Red sea salt
Pros
- Waterproof
- Pain relieving
- Petroleum-free
- Fragrance-free
- Color-free
- Cruelty-free
- Safe for all skin types
Cons
- None
"This product really helped me during my first tattoo. I applied it every day to lessen the discomfort and it worked well. It absorbed well without leaving any greasiness behind."
From body lotions to soaps, there are a lot of tattoo aftercare products available on the market. Keep reading to know more about these products.
Types Of Tattoo Aftercare Products
- Lotions, Creams, And Ointments: Moisturizing the tattooed area is key to healing. Use fragrance-free lotions, creams, and ointments with ingredients like aloe vera and plant oils to keep the tattooed area soft and nourished.
- Soap: After getting a tattoo, it is crucial to keep the area bacteria-free. For that, use a fragrance-free, gentle soap (bar or liquid) containing antibacterial ingredients.
- Sunscreen: Exposure to UV rays can fade the tattoo. Hence, applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial to maintain the desired color intensity.
- Bandage: Bandages are widely used by tattoo artists to protect the tattooed area and keep it moisturized. Bandages help keep dust particles and water away from your tattoo to avoid infection.
There is a high chance of your tattoo getting infected if it is not taken care of properly. Below are a few tips that you should keep in mind to keep your tattooed area safe.
Safety Tips To Keep In Mind After Getting A Tattoo
- Do not rub or scratch your tattoo until the area is fully healed.
- Avoid sun exposure. Use sunscreen to cover the tattooed area or wear protective clothing to avoid exposure.
- Avoid contact with water before your tattoo has fully healed to achieve exceptional results.
- Consult a doctor immediately if you experience swelling, redness, and constant itching in the tattooed area.
- Invest in dermatologist-tested or cosmetologist-approved lotions and apply them gently to your tattooed areas to avoid irritation.
Infographic: Key Ingredients In Tattoo Aftercare Products
Every tattoo needs proper aftercare to ensure it heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy. Good tattoo aftercare products are infused with ingredients that ensure a speedy and comfortable healing process. Check out the infographic below for the key ingredients commonly found in tattoo aftercare products that promote healing, nourishment, and protection for your newly tattooed skin.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Getting a tattoo is always fun! You might want to get a meaningful tattoo for yourself, but knowing how to take care of your tattoo is a bigger deal. Some products for tattoo aftercare can help quickly heal the inked area. For effective and soothing tattoo aftercare, the Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Care Balm is a good option. The H2Ocean Ocean-Care Skin Moisturizing Cream is specially formulated to provide hydration and promote faster recovery, while the Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel offers a cooling sensation and helps reduce discomfort. These products can keep the area moisturized and well-nourished while speeding up the healing process. These ingredients help reduce swelling, redness, and allergies. Remember to test the product on a small patch of your skin to check for allergic reactions before applying it to your tattooed areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Vaseline on my tattoo?
No, using Vaseline can trap moisture and restrict the breathability of your skin, thus preventing proper healing.
How do I moisturize a new tattoo?
You can use a tattoo aftercare lotion, creams, and ointments to moisturize your tattoo. Choose a lotion that has healing ingredients and is free from artificial fragrance. Use the lotion 3-6 times a day.
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Avoid dangling modifiers.
What is the best thing to put on a new tattoo?
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer on your new tattoo to heal your skin while maintaining the shine and color of the tattoo.
What cream is the best for tattoo aftercare?
The Stories & Ink Tattoo Care Aftercare Cream is the best for tattoo aftercare. This hypoallergenic cream contains panthenol that moisturizes the skin and soothes inflammation. The non-greasy formula lets your skin breathe freely.
Can you over-moisturize a tattoo?
No. Do not over-moisturize your tattoo to prevent clogging the pores. Applying excessive amounts of moisturizer also increases the chances of infections.
Is coconut oil good for new tattoos?
Yes. Coconut oil boosts moisture into your skin and quickly heals skin cuts. In addition, it retains the vibrancy of your tattoo.
When should I moisturize my new tattoo?
Wait for 24 to 48 hours after getting a tattoo, then moisturize it. Skip using a cream immediately to let the skin heal on its own.
How many times a day should I wash my tattoo?
Wash the tattoo area two or three times daily to get rid of the accumulated bacteria or dirt from the skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author, is a certified skincare coach who advocates using tattoo aftercare products to help with the healing of tattooed skin. To help our readers find the best quality products that deliver on their claims, she has researched the numerous options available on the market. Her understanding of key ingredients and how they affect the skin have helped her narrow down the options. She has also gone through user reviews to understand better how the products can affect various skin types. The recommended products are formulated with quality and safe ingredients to keep your tattoo smooth, soft, infection-free, and help quickly heal the tattooed area.
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