Welcome to our blog! Today, we’re diving into the world of tattoo aftercare. We’ll answer the question on everyone’s mind: “What kind of ointment do you put on tattoos?” Tune in for essential tips and guidance!
Choosing the Right Ointment for Your Tattoo Aftercare
Choosing a suitable ointment for your tattoo aftercare can make a substantial difference in the healing process and final appearance of your tattoo.
Hence, it is essential to understand the different types of tattoo aftercare ointments available and how they may affect your tattoo.
The Importance of Tattoo Aftercare
The immediate period after getting a tattoo is crucial for the tattoo’s longevity and appearance. A fresh tattoo is essentially a wound on your skin, and it requires proper care to heal correctly.
Without suitable aftercare, the tattoo could fade prematurely or develop infections, causing discomfort and potential damage to the artwork.

One of the most prominent aspects of tattoo aftercare is applying an aftercare ointment, which helps keep the tattoo moisturized and protects against bacteria and other contaminants.
Choosing a Suitable Ointment
There are several factors to consider when choosing an ointment for your tattoo aftercare.
- Antibacterial Property: New tattoos are very vulnerable to infections. So, it’s best to go for an ointment that has antibacterial properties. This type of ointment can provide a layer of protection and prevent harmful bacteria from entering your wound.
- Moisturizing Capability: Dryness can lead to scabbing, resulting in the loss of ink from your tattoo. The best tattoo aftercare ointments are usually those that provide adequate moisture to your skin.
- All-natural Ingredients: Ointments with natural ingredients are less likely to cause skin reactions, like redness, itchiness, or swelling. Some common natural components you might find include Vitamin E, aloe vera, and shea butter.
Types of Tattoo Aftercare Ointments

Here are some commonly used tattoo aftercare products:
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Aquaphor is a multipurpose ointment that provides antibacterial protection and moisturizes the skin. It is often recommended by tattoo artists for its effectiveness.
A+D Ointment: A+D is another widely used product, primarily for its high vitamin content beneficial for skin healing and rejuvenation.
Bepanthen: Bepanthen is a type of antiseptic cream commonly used in tattoo aftercare for its moisturizing and healing properties.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil offers natural antibacterial and moisturizing properties. Plus, it’s less likely to cause any adverse skin reactions.
In conclusion, choosing the right ointment for your tattoo aftercare is highly essential. Remember to consult with your tattoo artist or dermatologist to understand what would be most suitable for your specific needs and skin type.
FAQs
What are the top recommended ointments to apply on new tattoos?
Newly inked tattoos are essentially wounds that your body needs to heal, and choosing a top-quality ointment can significantly aid in that process. Here are some highly recommended ointments that you should consider:
1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment: This is one of the most widely suggested ointments by tattoo artists due to its deeply moisturizing properties and its gentle formulation that’s suitable for sensitive skin.
2. A+D Original Ointment: This ointment is quite versatile as it’s not only good for tattoos but also for cuts, burns, and dry skin. It helps soothe the skin and keeps your tattoo vibrant.
3. Tattoo Goo The Original Aftercare Salve: Specifically designed for tattoo aftercare, Tattoo Goo is packed with natural ingredients like olive oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, and lavender oil that help promote healing while maintaining the brightness of your tattoo.
4. After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer and Aftercare Lotion: This lotion is both vegan and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. It’s non-petroleum based, instead relying on grape seed oil for its moisturizing abilities.
5. Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment: Although it’s primarily used as a diaper rash cream, many tattoo artists recommend Bepanthen due to its superior healing properties.
Remember, don’t overuse any ointment. A thin layer is enough to keep the tattoo moisturized and to avoid scabbing.

Lastly, always make sure to consult with your tattoo artist or dermatologist before applying a new product to your fresh tattoo.
How does the type of ointment you use affect the healing process of tattoos?
The type of ointment you use can significantly affect the healing process of tattoos. When treating a new tattoo, it’s not just about keeping it clean, but also moisturized.
Hydration is necessary for promoting skin cell regeneration and preventing scabbing that could alter the tattoo’s design.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment is recommended by many tattoo professionals. It contains panthenol and glycerin that help keep the skin moisturized, enabling it to heal faster.
However, this should only be used for the first few days due to its intense hydration, which may lead to clogging of pores.
Another excellent choice is A&D Ointment. Its primary ingredients are petroleum and lanolin, which help create a protective barrier against bacteria.
It also soothes the skin and reduces inflammation. This ointment can also be used for longer without the risk of clogging pores.
For those who prefer plant-based products, choosing ointments with coconut oil or shea butter are great alternatives. These natural oils provide moisture and have natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. However, these might not be as effective in creating a protective layer against bacteria.
Avoid ointments that contain alcohol, fragrance, or artificial colors as they can cause irritation, delay the healing process, or even damage the art.
Lastly, always remember that everyone’s skin reacts differently. It’s best to listen to your body, watch how your skin responds, and adjust your aftercare accordingly.
The amount and frequency of application can also affect the healing process. Therefore, consulting with your tattoo artist or a dermatologist about aftercare products is still the best course of action.
Can different ointments change the final color or appearance of your tattoo?
Yes, different ointments can potentially alter the final color or appearance of your tattoo. During the healing process, your tattoo is especially vulnerable to influence from the products you apply on it. Using an inappropriate ointment can lead to discoloration and can even cause the ink to fade more rapidly.
Most importantly, tattoos should never be treated with products containing petroleum or alcohol. These ingredients can leach color from your tattoo and dry out the skin, leading to a dulled and prematurely aged appearance.
On the flip side, many specialist tattoo aftercare products are designed to enhance the color and longevity of your tattoo, such as those containing vitamin E and essential oils. These can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy, allowing your tattoo to heal properly and maintain its vibrant color.
See Lip Tattoos.
It’s also important to note that ointments with strong color tints can potentially stain the area of your new tattoo, altering the design’s intended color. So, it’s best to stick to clear or lightly tinted products.
In conclusion, choosing the right ointment is a crucial part of ensuring your tattoo heals properly and maintains its intended appearance. Always seek advice from your professional tattoo artist or dermatologist to ensure the best care for your new tattoo.
About Author

- https://t.me/s/tattoogunmachine
- Hello everyone! My name is Jade Blunt, and I'm a passionate tattoo enthusiast. Let me share a bit about my life and my journey in the world of ink and skin.
Ever since I was a child, I've been drawn to art and creativity in all its forms. However, it was when I turned 18 that I discovered my true passion: tattoos. I remember my first tattoo, a small design on my wrist that marked the beginning of an adventure that would change my life forever.
As my love for tattoos grew, so did my desire to learn more about this fascinating art. I started researching, talking to talented tattoo artists, and immersing myself in the history and culture of tattoos. Every tattoo tells a story, and I wanted to be a part of that narrative.
Over time, I decided to share my passion with the world through my blog, "Tattoo Gun Machine." In this space, I strive to provide valuable information about tattoos, from tips for tattooed skin care to stories of innovative tattoo artists and inspiring designs. My goal is to educate and inspire those who share my love for tattoos, as well as to demystify some of the stigmas surrounding this art form.
My blog has become a corner of the web where the tattoo-loving community can connect, share ideas, and explore new trends. I've also had the privilege of interviewing some of the most talented tattoo artists in the world, who share their unique experiences and knowledge within my pages.
But my journey in the world of tattoos doesn't stop here. I'm always on the lookout for new inspiration and challenges. I dream of one day opening my own tattoo studio, where I can bring my own designs to life and continue contributing to this form of artistic expression.
So, if you share my passion for tattoos or are simply interested in learning more about this exciting world, I invite you to join me on my journey at "Tattoo Gun Machine." Together, we can explore the art, culture, and beauty of tattoos as we continue to ink our stories onto the canvas of life. I'll see you on my blog!