Do I put Aquaphor on my tattoo when it's peeling?

Author: Sydnie Gibson  |  Last update: Monday, July 14, 2025

If it's already peeling I'd just start with regular lotion. Aquaphor is good for the first couple of days because it does act as a bit of a protective barrier in addition to moisturizing. But once the tattoo starts to scab over it can be a bit too heavy and it gets really easy to over moisturize.

Do I use Aquaphor when my tattoo is peeling?

Yes, you should apply ointment to a peeling tattoo, but it's important to follow certain guidelines: Choose the Right Ointment: Use a fragrance-free, gentle ointment recommended for tattoo care, such as Aquaphor or a specific tattoo aftercare product.

What to put on a tattoo when it starts peeling?

  • Gentle Care : If your tattoo is peeling, gently pat it dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing it.
  • Moisturize : Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or a specialized tattoo aftercare ointment to keep the area hydrated.
  • Avoid Scratching
  • Keep It Clean

Is it good to put Aquaphor on peeling skin?

Experiencing excessive redness or dryness post peel? In addition to the Post Treatment Repair Cream, you can also include Aquaphor to help heal the irritated skin.

Can too much Aquaphor fade a tattoo?

Aquaphor is heavy and petroleum based, can clog your pores and make healing a tattoo worse or cause ink loss.

What To Do When YOUR Tattoo Starts Peeling | Heal Properly

At which stage of tattoo process should I stop using Aquaphor?

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. This can be DABBED with a clean paper towel.

How to tell if a new tattoo is too dry?

If you aren't sure whether or not the tattoo is dry, remove the bandage and gently pull at your skin. Your skin will still be sensitive, but you should feel a slight sensation of tightness. Some people describe it as parched skin that feels like it is on the verge of slightly cracking.

Should I moisturize while peeling?

Don't. Skip out on moisturizer. Moisturizing is not only important for peeling skin, it's However, those with peeling skin should watch out for the use of “humectants” incorporated in most moisturisers –especially during dryer weathers.

Should I moisturise tattoo peeling?

Don't pick or scratch

Yeah, it's itchy, but that can be part of the healing process. As mentioned earlier, remember to moisturize to minimize discomfort.

Will peeling ruin my tattoo?

Normal peeling usually starts within a week after getting your tattoo and might last about a week or so. The flakes should be thin, and you might see tiny bits of color in them. That's just the stained dead skin coming off in the majority of cases. It doesn't mean your tattoo is ruined.

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.

Can a tattoo heal without Aquaphor?

While Vaseline and Aquaphor are commonly used for tattoo aftercare, they may not be the best choice for the healing process of your tattoo. Their occlusive nature can lead to clogged pores and hinder oxygenation, which can slow down healing and potentially lead to complications.

Should I let my tattoo dry out?

You can pat the tattoo gently with a clean paper towel, but you must let the tattoo dry, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes after each cleaning. Any extra moisture trapped by immediately covering the tattoo is an invitation for bacteria to multiply.

How to tell if a tattoo is over moisturized?

Signs of an Over-Moisturized Tattoo
  1. The moisturizer you've applied isn't absorbed in the skin. ...
  2. Your skin looks or feels irritated. ...
  3. The tattoo isn't scabbing or the scabs don't fall off.

When should you not use Aquaphor?

Eucerin Aquaphor Repairing Ointment should only be used on re-epithelialized skin (i.e. once new tissue has formed) and not on open, wet or bleeding wounds. Ask your Dermatologist for advice on how long you should wait after treatment before using the product.

Can you put too much Aquaphor on a tattoo?

Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor. A thin layer is strongly suggested, too much aquaphor can pull out the ink and damage the quality of the tattoo, which results in a higher chance the tattoo will need a touch-up.

When to start using Aquaphor on a tattoo?

The first 3 - 4 days. We recommend Aquaphor as the healing ointment for your tattoo. Apply a small amount to the tattoo, and rub it in thoroughly, as if you were applying lotion. It should not shine or feel sticky!

How often should I wash my tattoo when it's peeling?

Pat dry with a clean, disposable paper towel. DO NOT RE-BANDAGE. Until the surface of the tattoo is healed (at a minimum of two to three weeks), wash the area gently 2-3 times per day.

What to apply after peeling solution?

On a clean & dry face, apply the peeling solution no more than twice a week in the evening and leave it on for no longer than 10 minutes. To wash off, use Creamy Cleanser with lukewarm water and apply Ceramide + HA Intense Moisturizer after 15 minutes. Post moisturization, apply sunscreen.

How to heal peeling skin overnight?

Use a Soothing Cream

If your skin is raw and peeling, especially while recovering from a sunburn, try using a gentle, fragrance-free cream containing aloe. Oat-based products can also help soothe peeling skin. Products that contain cortisone may help reduce inflammation.

Should I put lotion on my tattoo if it's peeling?

During the peeling stage, it's important to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized to avoid any complications such as infection or scarring.

How to make sure a tattoo heals properly?

Carefully wash your tattoo area three times a day with soap and water, and gently pat it dry. Keep applying a moisturizer or ointment after you clean your tattoo to keep it moist. After 5 days, you can switch from an antibiotic ointment to a gentle fragrance-free body lotion.

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