How long after a tattoo can you use regular lotion?

Author: Miss Rubie Haley  |  Last update: Thursday, August 7, 2025

After the fourth day, switch over to using a plain white non-scented lotion 4 to 5 times a day or as needed when your tattoo becomes dry and flaky, which is normal at this stage.

When can you use regular lotion after a tattoo?

After using ointment for a new tattoo, you should wait until your tattoo has completely healed before switching to lotion. This typically takes about 2-3 weeks (1).

When should you switch from Aquaphor to lotion on a tattoo?

After using ointment for a new tattoo, you should wait until your tattoo has completely healed before switching to lotion. This typically takes about 2-3 weeks (1).

How long after a tattoo can I use regular body wash?

This could take less than a week or a few depending on how fast your body heals, in my experience it has been around 9 days before I have been able to use a light body wash by hand and about 12 days before using abrasives. Hope that helps even though its just my experience and opinion, I'm sure people will disagree!

When to stop using ointment on a tattoo?

Only apply ointment for as long as it takes for your tattoo to peel, usually 3-7 days. When the peeling begins, the tattooed skin will flake like a sunburn. At all costs avoid picking at the cracked and flaking skin. When the tattoo has fully entered the peeling phase you should NOT apply any more ointment.

How To Treat A NEW Tattoo: Step By Step AFTERCARE Guide To Get AMAZING HEALS

How long after a tattoo can you shower?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before jumping into the shower. This initial waiting period gives your skin time to begin healing. When you do shower, try to minimize direct contact with the tattooed area and limit its exposure to water.

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.

When to stop washing a tattoo twice a day?

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. After cleaning the tattoo during this two to three week period, gently apply a thin coat of a lotion-based care product. We recommend After Inked tattoo moisturizer and aftercare lotion.

Can I cover my tattoo while I sleep?

Unfortunately, there's no way to control what your body does while you sleep, but keeping your new tattoo covered during the night will help mitigate the risk of causing any injuries by scratching it.

What happens if you put too much Aquaphor on a tattoo?

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.

What is the best lotion for new tattoos?

The general rule of thumb when looking for a tattoo lotion? Choose a formula that's simple, unscented, and gentle. According to Goold, Aquaphor is a go-to in most tattoo shops, since it's super effective at soothing and moisturizing fresh ink. "It's great for both the initial healing period and afterward," she says.

Should I let my tattoo dry out and peel?

"If there is some scabbing or flaking, we advise clients not to pick and to allow the scab or dry skin to come off on its own," says Otsuji. "Picking at your tattoo during the peeling stage can result in it appearing patchy, distorted, and dull once healed."

When can I stop washing my tattoo with antibacterial soap?

It is considered fully healed when all scabs have fallen off, and the skin has regenerated and closed up. This process generally takes between 2 to 4 weeks. At this point, you can stop washing your tattoo with soap, as it will be protected by its own layers of skin.

What tattoo color lasts the longest?

Black ink tends to outlast any other color because it is super pigmented. Other darker colors like dark blue, dark green, gray, and dark purple will have a similar lifespan to black ink. Lighter inks like yellows, reds, oranges, whites, and any pastel tones tend to fade a bit more quickly than darker inks.

How can I keep my tattoo looking fresh?

Dry skin can make a tattoo look blurred or faded. Keeping your skin moisturized is your best bet for a fresh look. While you can buy lotions that are marketed as tattoo lotions, you don't need to spend the extra money. Avoid lotions with additives and fragrances, which can dry out your skin.

How long after a tattoo can I use normal moisturiser?

On day 3 you may apply some light moisturiser lotion (Vaseline Dry Skin is what we recommend) once a day or every other day, as little as possible, if at all. Your tattoo will heal naturally on its own. NEVER apply Bepanthen, petroleum jelly, alcohol or other creams and lotions without asking your artist.

How long after a tattoo can you shower normally?

You can shower 3-4 hours after getting a tattoo, if you have a Saniderm bandage on, however, if you have a plastic wrap wait 24 hours to unwrap your tattoo and shower. In either case, shower in cold or lukewarm water and avoid prolonged soaking or submerging your tattoo in water for 3-4 weeks.

When to stop using Aquaphor on a 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. This can be DABBED with a clean paper towel.

What should you not do after getting a tattoo?

What to Avoid After Getting a Tattoo: 10 Tips
  • The Sun. As much as we all love its warmth and good vibes, the sun is no friend to our brand-new tattoo. ...
  • Unwrapping and Rewrapping. You will either wrap it, or you don't. ...
  • Over-Moisturizing. ...
  • Medicated Ointments. ...
  • Scented Soap. ...
  • Shaving. ...
  • Touching and Picking It. ...
  • Wearing Tight Clothing.

Is vaseline good for tattoos?

What NOT to do? DON'T re-bandage your tattoo, rub, scratch or pick at your new tattoo. DON'T apply alcohol, Neosporin, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly (they can trap dirt and germs and cause infection). DON'T apply a heavy coat of lotion (remember the skin must breathe in order to heal).

How many days should I keep my tattoo covered?

Leaving the bandage on for too long can result in infection, so always change your bandage within the stated timeframe. Most tattoos can be properly healed with 2 applications of the bandage, with each application being left on the skin for 1-2 days, for a 3 or 4 day total.

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