Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin™ Zinc Oxide ointment,
Aquaphor being the most common, these ointments create a protective barrier over the tattoo, sealing in moisture and preventing the entry of bacteria. They also help to soothe the skin and alleviate any itching or discomfort during the healing process.
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).
Currently Aquaphor is the only suggested ointment in my opinion. Unlike A&D or other OTC ointments, it has the least petroleum so it soaks in faster, clogs the pores the least, has no scents or alcohols added, and keeps your tattoo from drying out too fast.
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 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.
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.
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).
It is important not to use any scented creams or lotions. Harsh chemicals can irritate the wound and damage the tattooed skin.
Rinse the tattoo gently until the skin is clean. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel then allow to fully air dry for a minimum of 10 minutes. DO NOT SCRUB. Once the tattoo is dry, apply a very small amount of Aquaphor or Bacitracin.
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.
To clean your tattoo, start with an antibacterial soap if available, but a plain bath soap is also OK. Something more abrasive isn't necessary, and you should never use hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol on your tattoo. A thin layer of antibiotic ointment can help protect your tattoo as it starts healing.
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! If it does, you are using too much ointment!
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin™ Zinc Oxide ointment, Neosporin™ or Vitamin A&D ointment. After 5 days, substitute a gentle fragrance-free and color-free body lotion. Repeat the above washing/ointment procedure at least 3 times a day for 1–2 weeks.
Stage Two (Days 7-14) – Itching and flaking begins, and this continues until layers of dead skin and scabs have fallen off. 3. Stage Three (Days 15-30) – Tattoo looks fully healed but may look slightly cloudy for a few weeks. Deeper layers of skin are still repairing, so continue to look after your tattoo.
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.
Bepanthen® Tattoo Ointment has been dermatologically tested on tattooed skin in a clinical study. The clinical study investigated the efficacy and cosmetic performance of Bepanthen® Tattoo Ointment on the healing of freshly tattooed skin when applied 4-8 times daily over 14 days.
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and hydroquinone. TCA removes the top layer of skin and penetrates some of the underlying layers to effectively remove most of that tattoo ink. Hydroquinone is a skin bleacher and lightening cream that reduces the melatonin and fades the pigments in the epidermis.
Benefits of Dry Healing
Natural Healing Process Dry healing allows the body to use its natural healing mechanisms, which can result in a more vibrant and detailed tattoo. Simplified Routine Without the need for multiple applications of ointments or creams, the aftercare routine becomes simpler and less time-consuming.
Others will tell you that antibacterial ointment is a major "no-no." And the old-school artists advise against using any ointments or lotions at all, saying they may be vehicles for bacteria and can cause infection and scabbing.