Bacteria on the skin can ultimately lead to a tattoo that doesn't heal correctly, resulting in a damaged tattoo. For instance, Vaseline on a tattoo can draw the ink from the lower layers of the skin before it has set. This can lead the tattoo to look faded, patchy, or distorted.
After 3-4 days, you do not want to be using ANY petroleum based substances like Vaseline or ANY ointment type products. It can clog the skins pores and cause ink to fall out of your tattoo from getting waterlogged.
Yes, Aquaphor is generally safe for tattoo aftercare and is commonly recommended for healing. It is also a cheap source for tattoo aftercare. However, for some people, it might not be suitable. Aquaphor products contain a high amount of petroleum which can clog pores and potentially cause ink loss.
Laser tattoo removal is likely the most commonly heard of tattoo removal method. Laser tattoo removal works by firing concentrated light at ink in a tattoo, which then breaks the tattoo into smaller pieces so your body can process the tattoo out over time.
Other Tattoo Removal / Fading Options:
Hydrogen Peroxide and Exfoliation - Exfoliation paired with hydrogen peroxide can do wonders to gradually fade tattoo ink naturally.
There hasn't been an official study on how much ink (if any) Aquaphor can remove or fade from a tattoo. In the interest of fairness, plenty of tattoo artists claim that they've never experienced ink loss in their clients that use Aquaphor.
Lasers remove tattoos by breaking up the pigment colors with a high-intensity light beam. Black tattoo pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it the easiest color to treat. Other colors can only be treated by selected lasers based upon the pigment color.
Conclusion: 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.
However, professional laser removal is the most effective and fastest solution. Factors such as sun exposure, skin elasticity, and the body's natural immune response contribute to this process. UV rays, in particular, can degrade the ink pigments, causing them to fade more quickly.
Lemon, lavender, frankincense, helichrysum, and tea tree essential oils are the best options for fading tattoos. To use essential oils for fading tattoos, dilute the oil, use a carrier oil, and apply the mixture to the tattoo regularly.
Exposure to the Sun
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun will penetrate the skin and essentially break down the pigments in the tattoo. Once those pigments are damaged, the tattoo will ultimately appear much lighter and less vibrant than it once did.
Basic Lubrication: Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is commonly used as a lubricant during tattoo sessions. It provides a basic level of lubrication, allowing the tattoo needle to glide smoothly over the skin and reducing friction.
Yes, it's tempting to use Vaseline, but it can cause irregular scabbing because it is too occlusive of a barrier. This can cause ink pulling, leaving a patchy tattoo in its wake. There are better ways to care for your tattoo area without petrolatum and other undesirable substances.
Laser tattoo removal is the most effective technique for removing tattoo ink compared to other methods, because it can safely remove all tattoo types and color pigments with little to no scarring.
Saline tattoo removal is a procedure that uses a saline solution to draw tattoo ink or pigment out of the skin. It can be used to lighten or fully remove tattoos, although it is not the most efficient method of removal.
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.
As the excessive moisture is the reason why the tattoo is not healing properly, stop moisturizing immediately. Remove the excess cream and dry the tattoo naturally - After showering, use a soft towel to gently pat dry the tattoo and remove the excess cream. Afterwards, leave it for 15 to 30 minutes to dry naturally.
The Final Takeaway. Because of its moisturizing properties and vitamins that are good for your skin, coconut oil is ultimately more than safe to apply to your tattoo. It's a natural, inexpensive way to heal your tattoo and keep it looking healthy and vibrant for years to come.
You have a temporary tattoo that will last up to two weeks! Apply Vaseline regularly to help it last even longer.
People often try to remove their old tattoos with products like lemon juice, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide. These household products are not very effective and can cause scarring because tattoo ink is in the dermis, below the top layer of our skin.