The balm's soothing properties also play a significant role in the healing process.
Aquaphor is fine for the first few days. But apply it MINIMALLY. If the tattoo is shiny at all you are using too much. Then switch to normal white lotion after a few days. If you use Saniderm you should just skip the aquaphor all together.
Petroleum-based products like Aquaphor and A and D are actually slowing down the healing process of your tattoo. They clog your pores. They trap moisture and bacteria on your skin.
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, you'll switch to lotion.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Aquaphor is a widely recommended tattoo aftercare treatment. It contains petrolatum, which creates a protective layer on the skin, keeping moisture in and promoting healing (2).
It is important not to use any scented creams or lotions. Harsh chemicals can irritate the wound and damage the tattooed skin.
A top pick of Jackson, Aquaphor's light ointment is ideal for reducing any itchiness, avoiding any scabbing, and keeping the tattoo moisturized. “I only recommend a light ointment, such as Aquaphor, after a couple of weeks of healing if the tattoo is scabbed up or shiny,” Jackson says.
I find that Aquaphor is too thick for this stage of aftercare and may clog the pores of your skin, increasing the risk of irritation and slowing the healing process. If you like Aquaphor for aftercare, please only use a very thin layer and switch to a regular lotion after a few days.
Days 2 to 3:
During these days, your tattoo may look dull and cloudy as your skin heals and new skin starts to form. Excess ink and plasma may still ooze from your skin.
By keeping the wound moist and protected from external irritants, Aquaphor provides an optimal environment for tissue regeneration and re-epithelialization. This enables the skin to heal properly with minimal scarring. Regular application helps minimize permanent marks or discoloration.
Following the removal of the bandage, the goal is to keep the tattoo clean and moist. Two to three times a day, wash the tattoo and apply a thin layer of fragrance free lotion, like Aveeno or Lubriderm. Aquaphor is also a good option if you'd prefer a petroleum based solution.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The top layer of dead skin has been colored or dyed during the tattooing process. That outer layer will fall off revealing the fresh skin underneath. My tattoo looks like it's fading.
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.
The verdict is clear. Given the fortifying ingredients and safer formulation, Inked Ritual overtakes Aquaphor in maintaining, protecting, and enhancing the life of your tattoos. Your tattoo deserves the care, nourishment, and long life that Inked Ritual guarantees.
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.
As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard. An easy way to include tipping in your budget is to add it in when getting the estimated costs for having your work done. So, if your tattoo is expected to cost $200, with a 20-percent tip, that's $240.