What Can You Put On A Tattoo is a question many people ask when considering getting inked or caring for existing body art. At tattooat.com, we provide expert insights into tattoo aftercare, suitable products, and how to ensure your tattoo remains vibrant and healthy. Understanding the right products and aftercare routines can significantly impact the healing process and longevity of your tattoo.
1. Understanding Tattoo Aftercare Essentials
Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for preventing infection and ensuring the vibrancy of your ink. Cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting your tattoo are fundamental steps in this process.
1.1. Cleansing Your New Tattoo
Keeping your new tattoo clean is the first line of defense against infection. Use a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap to gently wash the tattooed area.
- Antibacterial Soap: Choose a fragrance-free antibacterial soap to minimize irritation.
- Gentle Washing: Use your fingertips to gently cleanse the area, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all traces of soap.
1.2. Moisturizing for Optimal Healing
Moisturizing your tattoo helps to keep the skin hydrated, which is essential for proper healing and preventing scabbing.
- Water-Based Lotions: Opt for water-based, fragrance-free lotions to avoid irritation.
- Thin Layer Application: Apply a thin layer of lotion to allow the skin to breathe.
- Frequency: Moisturize 2-3 times a day, or whenever the skin feels dry.
1.3. Sun Protection: Shielding Your Ink
Sun exposure can cause your tattoo to fade over time. Protecting your tattoo from the sun is vital for maintaining its vibrancy.
- Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Application: Apply sunscreen liberally to the tattooed area 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapplication: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if swimming or sweating.
2. Recommended Products for Tattoo Aftercare
Choosing the right products can make a significant difference in how your tattoo heals. Here’s a guide to the best options available.
2.1. Antibacterial Soaps
Antibacterial soaps are essential for keeping your new tattoo clean and preventing infection. Look for fragrance-free options to minimize irritation.
- Purpose: Cleansing and preventing infection.
- Ingredients to Look For: Fragrance-free, mild surfactants.
- Brands: Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
2.2. Tattoo Aftercare Lotions
After the initial healing phase, switching to a lotion helps keep the skin moisturized and prevents dryness.
- Purpose: Moisturizing and promoting healing.
- Ingredients to Look For: Water-based, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic.
- Brands: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion.
2.3. Sunscreens
Protecting your tattoo from the sun is crucial for preventing fading and damage. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens with high SPF.
- Purpose: Protecting against UV rays and preventing fading.
- Ingredients to Look For: Broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide.
- Brands: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen.
2.4. Tattoo Balms
These balms are specifically formulated to soothe and protect new tattoos, often containing natural ingredients.
- Purpose: Soothing, moisturizing, and protecting.
- Ingredients to Look For: Natural oils (coconut, shea butter), vitamins (E, D), beeswax.
- Brands: Tattoo Goo, Hustle Butter Deluxe.
3. Ingredients to Avoid During Tattoo Aftercare
Certain ingredients can hinder the healing process or cause irritation. It’s important to know what to avoid when choosing aftercare products.
3.1. Alcohol
Alcohol-based products can dry out the skin and interfere with the healing process.
- Why Avoid: Dries out the skin, slows healing.
- Alternatives: Water-based moisturizers.
3.2. Petroleum-Based Products
While petroleum jelly was once a common recommendation, it can trap moisture and bacteria, potentially leading to infection.
- Why Avoid: Can trap bacteria and moisture.
- Alternatives: Water-based lotions, tattoo balms.
3.3. Fragrances and Dyes
Fragrances and dyes can cause allergic reactions and irritation, especially on sensitive, newly tattooed skin.
- Why Avoid: Can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
- Alternatives: Fragrance-free, dye-free products.
3.4. Harsh Chemicals
Avoid products with harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates, which can irritate the skin and delay healing.
- Why Avoid: Can irritate the skin and delay healing.
- Alternatives: Natural and organic products.
4. What Can You Put on an Old Tattoo to Keep It Looking New?
Maintaining the vibrancy of an old tattoo requires a consistent skincare routine focused on hydration, sun protection, and gentle exfoliation.
4.1. Regular Moisturizing
Keeping the skin hydrated is key to preventing the tattoo from looking dull.
- Frequency: Daily, or whenever the skin feels dry.
- Products: Water-based lotions, shea butter.
4.2. Sun Protection
Sun exposure is a major cause of tattoo fading. Consistent sunscreen use is essential.
- SPF: 30 or higher.
- Frequency: Every day, reapplying every two hours when exposed to the sun.
4.3. Gentle Exfoliation
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, revealing the vibrant ink underneath.
- Frequency: 1-2 times a week.
- Products: Gentle exfoliating scrubs, soft washcloths.
4.4. Hydration
Drinking plenty of water keeps the skin hydrated from the inside out, which can help maintain the tattoo’s appearance.
- Daily Intake: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
5. Tattoo Healing Stages and Aftercare
Understanding the different stages of tattoo healing can help you tailor your aftercare routine for optimal results.
5.1. Week 1: Initial Healing
The first week is crucial for preventing infection and starting the healing process.
- Appearance: Redness, swelling, oozing.
- Aftercare: Gentle cleansing with antibacterial soap, thin layer of tattoo balm.
5.2. Week 2: Itching and Peeling
Itching and peeling are normal during this stage as the skin begins to regenerate.
- Appearance: Itching, peeling, flaking.
- Aftercare: Continue cleansing and moisturizing, avoid scratching.
5.3. Week 3-4: Continued Care
By this stage, the tattoo should look mostly healed, but continued care is important.
- Appearance: Tattoo appears healed, but skin may still be sensitive.
- Aftercare: Continue moisturizing and protecting from the sun.
5.4. Long-Term Maintenance
Even after the tattoo is fully healed, ongoing care is essential for maintaining its appearance.
- Appearance: Fully healed tattoo.
- Aftercare: Regular moisturizing, sun protection, and gentle exfoliation.
6. Natural Remedies for Tattoo Aftercare
For those who prefer natural products, several remedies can aid in tattoo healing and maintenance.
6.1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties.
- Benefits: Moisturizes, reduces inflammation, antibacterial.
- Application: Apply a thin layer to the tattoo.
6.2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is soothing and can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Benefits: Soothes, reduces inflammation, promotes healing.
- Application: Apply pure aloe vera gel to the tattoo.
6.3. Shea Butter
Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, making it an excellent moisturizer.
- Benefits: Moisturizes, nourishes, promotes healing.
- Application: Apply a thin layer to the tattoo.
6.4. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is similar to the skin’s natural oils and can help keep the tattoo moisturized.
- Benefits: Moisturizes, balances oil production, promotes healing.
- Application: Apply a thin layer to the tattoo.
7. Addressing Common Tattoo Problems
Even with proper care, issues can arise. Here’s how to address some common tattoo problems.
7.1. Infections
Infections require prompt treatment to prevent complications.
- Symptoms: Redness, swelling, pain, pus.
- Treatment: Consult a healthcare professional for antibiotics.
7.2. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can occur due to the ink or aftercare products.
- Symptoms: Itching, rash, hives.
- Treatment: Antihistamines, topical corticosteroids.
7.3. Fading
Fading is a natural process, but proper care can minimize it.
- Causes: Sun exposure, poor aftercare.
- Prevention: Sunscreen, regular moisturizing.
7.4. Keloids
Keloids are raised scars that can form around the tattoo.
- Treatment: Corticosteroid injections, laser therapy.
8. What Can You Put on a Tattoo Before Bed?
Applying a balm or lotion before bed can help keep the tattoo moisturized overnight, promoting healing and preventing dryness.
8.1. Tattoo Balm
A tattoo balm provides a protective barrier and keeps the skin moisturized.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of balm before bed.
8.2. Water-Based Lotion
A water-based lotion hydrates the skin without trapping moisture.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of lotion before bed.
8.3. Avoid Heavy Ointments
Heavy ointments like petroleum jelly can trap moisture and bacteria, so it’s best to avoid them before bed.
- Reason: Can lead to infection.
9. What Can You Put on a Tattoo to Stop Itching?
Itching is a common symptom during the healing process. Here’s how to relieve it without damaging your tattoo.
9.1. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress can help soothe the skin and reduce itching.
- Application: Apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes.
9.2. Moisturizing Lotion
Keeping the skin moisturized can help reduce itching.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of lotion.
9.3. Calamine Lotion
Calamine lotion can help relieve itching and irritation.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of calamine lotion.
9.4. Avoid Scratching
Scratching can damage the tattoo and increase the risk of infection.
- Alternative: Gently pat the area instead of scratching.
10. Debunking Tattoo Aftercare Myths
Many myths surround tattoo aftercare. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions.
10.1. Myth: Tattoos Need to “Breathe”
While it’s important to avoid trapping moisture, tattoos don’t need to “breathe” in the traditional sense.
- Reality: Proper moisturizing is key to healing.
10.2. Myth: You Should Pick at Scabs
Picking at scabs can damage the tattoo and increase the risk of scarring.
- Reality: Let scabs fall off naturally.
10.3. Myth: All Tattoo Artists Give the Same Aftercare Advice
Aftercare advice can vary. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your tattoo artist.
- Reality: Follow your artist’s instructions.
10.4. Myth: You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Old Tattoos
Sunscreen is essential for maintaining the vibrancy of both new and old tattoos.
- Reality: Sunscreen is always necessary.
At tattooat.com, we understand the importance of proper tattoo aftercare and maintenance. Whether you’re getting a new tattoo or caring for existing ink, our comprehensive guides and expert advice will help you keep your tattoos looking their best. From selecting the right products to understanding the healing process, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to explore stunning tattoo designs, find talented artists, and dive deeper into the world of tattoo knowledge? Visit tattooat.com today and discover everything you need to make your tattoo journey a success. Explore our extensive gallery of designs, connect with top-rated artists, and read in-depth articles on tattoo aftercare.
Address: 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States.
Phone: +1 (503) 725-3000.
Website: tattooat.com.
FAQ: What Can You Put on a Tattoo?
What is the best thing to put on a new tattoo?
The best things to put on a new tattoo are a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap for cleaning, a water-based, fragrance-free lotion for moisturizing, and a tattoo balm for protection. These products help prevent infection, keep the skin hydrated, and promote healing.
Can I use Vaseline on my tattoo?
It’s generally not recommended to use Vaseline on a new tattoo because it is a petroleum-based product that can trap moisture and bacteria, potentially leading to infection. Water-based lotions or tattoo balms are better alternatives.
How often should I moisturize my tattoo?
You should moisturize your tattoo 2-3 times a day, or whenever the skin feels dry. Keeping the skin hydrated is essential for proper healing and preventing scabbing.
Can I use sunscreen on a new tattoo?
It’s best to avoid sunscreen on a brand new tattoo until it has started to heal, typically after the first week. Once the initial healing phase is over, you can use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the tattoo from the sun.
What ingredients should I avoid in tattoo aftercare products?
You should avoid products with alcohol, petroleum-based ingredients, fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates. These ingredients can irritate the skin and delay healing.
Is it normal for my tattoo to itch?
Yes, itching is a normal symptom during the healing process. However, it’s important to avoid scratching the tattoo to prevent damage and infection. Use a cold compress or apply a moisturizing lotion to relieve the itching.
Can I use natural remedies for tattoo aftercare?
Yes, several natural remedies can be beneficial for tattoo aftercare, including coconut oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and jojoba oil. These natural ingredients have moisturizing, soothing, and antibacterial properties.
What should I do if I think my tattoo is infected?
If you think your tattoo is infected, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Symptoms of an infection include redness, swelling, pain, and pus. Early treatment can prevent complications.
How can I keep my old tattoo looking vibrant?
To keep your old tattoo looking vibrant, moisturize regularly, protect it from the sun with sunscreen, gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Can I use scented lotion on my tattoo after it’s healed?
While it’s generally best to use fragrance-free lotions during the initial healing phase, you can use scented lotions on your tattoo after it’s fully healed if you don’t experience any irritation. However, it’s still recommended to choose products that are gentle and hypoallergenic.
