Is Aquaphor or lotion better for tattoos?

Lotions are more spreadable and breathable than ointments. Aquaphor has the added benefit of anti-inflammatory effects, which can make the tattoo healing process speedier and more comfortable. After a given number of days of using ointment (your tattoo artist will specify how many), you'll switch to lotion.


Is Aquaphor better than lotion for tattoos?

He and Bhanusali both recommend Aquaphor for this. “Aquaphor has the added benefit of anti-inflammatory effects, which can make the tattoo healing process more speedy and less itchy,” Kuo says. “It absorbs the skin's natural moisture, which keeps the tattoo fresh and promotes healing.”

Can I use Aquaphor and lotion on my tattoo?

There are tons of fancy tattoo care products on the market, but most tattoo artists will recommend three things: Aquaphor healing ointment, unscented Lubriderm lotion, and Dial antibacterial liquid soap.


What is the best lotion for a tattoo?

Here are expert-recommended tattoo aftercare lotions, sunscreens and other products to consider, along with the best ways to use them.
  • Aquaphor. Healing Ointment. ...
  • A&D. First Aid Ointment. ...
  • First Aid Beauty. Ultra Repair BarriAIR Cream. ...
  • Eau Thermale Avène. ...
  • Lubriderm. ...
  • Neutrogena. ...
  • EltaMD. ...
  • Aveeno Kids.


What lotion doesnt fade tattoo?

Sign up for Esquire Select.
  • Aquaphor. Healing Ointment. ...
  • Mad Rabbit. Soothing Gel. ...
  • Project Woo. After/Care Treatment Kit. ...
  • Hustle Butter Deluxe. Tattoo Aftercare Tattoo Balm. ...
  • Tattoo Goo. Renew Enhancing Lotion with SPF 30. ...
  • INK. Tattoo Brightener Balm. ...
  • Lubriderm. Daily Moisture Hydrating Lotion. ...
  • After Inked.


Aquaphor Alternative For Tattoos



What lotion not to use on a new tattoo?

For the first day or two, use an ointment like A+D Original Ointment or Aquaphor Healing Ointment or the product recommended by your tattoo artist to help the tattoo heal. It's best to avoid products that are 100 percent petroleum-based, like Vaseline.

When should I switch from Aquaphor to lotion tattoo?

Use the Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days then switch to a regular FRAGRANCE-FREE lotion such as Lubriderm, or any other fragrance-free brand. 5. Fresh tattoos sometimes “weep” during the first couple of days, meaning that plasma and ink form a thin moist coating on the skin.

When should you not use Aquaphor on a tattoo?

After 3 or 4 days of using the Aquaphor ointment, you may notice small specks of color come off as you rub the ointment in. This is healing skin, and an indicator that you should stop using the Aquaphor as often.


When can I start using lotion on my tattoo?

Week one. Some tattoo artists recommend waiting between 24-48 hours before applying moisturizer, though others recommend doing so as soon as the first wash. A person with a fresh tattoo should follow their tattoo artist's instructions on when to start using moisturizer.

Why is Aquaphor better than lotion?

Ointments like Aquaphor do a more heavy-duty job of moisturizing the skin than do lotions. That's because ointments have an oil base, while lotions have a water base. Lotions are more spreadable and breathable than ointments.

What is the best tattoo aftercare?

Apply a layer of antibacterial/Vaseline ointment twice a day, but don't put on another bandage. Gently wash your tattoo area twice a day with soap and water and gently pat dry before reapplying the antibacterial/Vaseline ointment. Keep applying a moisturizer or ointment after you clean it to keep it moist.


How often should you lotion a new tattoo?

The rule of thumb is to moisturize your new tattoo at least 2-3 times per day for the first two weeks (or until the healing process is complete). Many tattoo enthusiasts continue to moisturize their tattoos every day! As for what type of moisturizer to use, lotion is generally the best.

Will lotion fade a new tattoo?

Use Water-Based Lotions

The AAD states that petroleum-based products, like petroleum jelly itself, can actually cause your tattoo ink to fade. Look for a water-based moisturizer or cream instead to hydrate your tattooed skin when it's in need of moisture.

Does Aquaphor remove ink from tattoos?

Using Aquaphor for tattoo aftercare, poses a risk of damaging your tattoo by causing premature fading. It has also been found that petrolatum and mineral oil can pull fresh tattoo ink from the skin. Again, another reason to avoid products that contain petrolatum and or mineral oil ingredients.


Can I just put lotion on my new tattoo?

You should NOT apply lotion/ointment on a brand new tattoo, meaning in the first 24 to 48 hours. The tattoo requires some time to stop bleeding and push out excess ink; until it's done with that, it doesn't need additional moisture coming from lotion/ointment.

What lotion fades tattoos?

What Are the Best Tattoo Removal Creams?
  • Tattoo Destroyer. If you want a simple one-step cream, pick up some of this Tattoo Destroyer. ...
  • Wrecking Balm Tattoo Fade System. This tattoo fading system, the Wrecking Balm, incorporates microdermabrasion to help speed things up. ...
  • Tat B Gone. ...
  • Inked Up Tattoo Removal Cream.


Why is my tattoo fading after 3 days?

Don't worry, this is completely natural. It happens because the old skin, damaged during the tattooing process, forms a thin layer over your tattoo and masks its true appearance. In time this old skin will naturally exfoliate itself, revealing your tattoo underneath in all its vibrant glory.


Should I lotion my tattoos everyday?

Yes! Moisturizing your tattoo regularly is extremely important. You should moisturize your clean tattoo 3 – 6 times per day, for roughly two weeks (though proper skincare is always important, and most tattoo enthusiasts moisturize their tattoos daily for life!).

How long do black tattoos last?

Black and gray tattoos are low maintenance in this regard as they don't fade easily and do not require you to get periodic touch-ups. A good estimate for a professionally done black and gray tattoo is 15 years without any signs of fading.

Will my tattoo dry out overnight?

On your first night, there's a chance your tattoo will still bleed. The blood can dry overnight and stick to your clothes or bedding. If this happens, gently take the fabric off.


Should I moisturize my tattoo while its peeling?

During the first two-ish days, you're gonna want to avoid lotions, but once you start to feel some tightening, drying, and peeling a couple of days after application, that's when you'll want to start using light layers of lotion after washing it.

Should I let my tattoo dry out?

If scabs develop, they can remove the color beneath them if prematurely removed. It's important that they're allowed to dry out completely, and not get waterlogged at any time. The scab will eventually fall off on its own, and the tattoo should be fine if no deep cracks have formed.

What speeds up tattoo healing?

There are some things you can do to speed up the healing process.
  • Cover tattoo with clothing. Sunlight can cause your tattoo to fade, and fresh tattoos are especially sensitive to the sun. ...
  • Don't re-bandage after you take off the initial dressing. ...
  • Clean daily. ...
  • Apply ointment. ...
  • Don't scratch or pick. ...
  • Avoid scented products.


How should a tattoo look after 3 days?

Days 2 to 3

Over the next couple of days, you may notice that your tattoo looks dull and cloudy. No need to panic or start thinking about a touch-up. This happens as your skin heals and new skin starts to form. Excess ink and plasma may still ooze from your skin during this time.

How should my tattoo feel after 3 days?

During these first few days, it is normal for your tattoo to feel sore and tender. You may also see redness, swelling, and some mild bleeding. DAYS 3-14 (or until healed): After the first 2-3 days, your tattoo should begin to feel dry and tight.