Choosing the Right Lotion
When selecting a lotion to apply on a tattoo, choosing one that does not contain perfumes or artificial colors and is suitable for your skin type is essential. Natural lotions are generally a better option for tattoo care.
Keeping Tattoos Moisturized
Many Tattoos need to be kept moisturized for several weeks while they heal. In such cases, lotions are more suitable than salves or balms for maintaining moisture.
Recommended Lotion Products
Eucerin Lotion for Dry Skin: This lotion is recommended for moisturizing tattoos. Be cautious while selecting creams, as some formulations can harm the tattoo’s delicate surface. Avoid heavy body moisturizers that contain petroleum-based products and opt for something lighter, such as the Alba Botanica light body moisturizer with jojoba, avocado, and sweet almond oils for hydration and exfoliation. Apply the lotion four times daily when the tattoo is still weeping or oozing, and reduce the frequency to two or three times per day when the skin starts scabbing or flaking.
H2Ocean Aquatat: This tattoo protection ointment is free from fragrances, dyes, mineral oil, and parabens. Physicians and tattoo artists highly recommend it. After the tattoo has healed, wash it regularly with mild soap and warm water three to four times daily and reapply the ointment if necessary.
Billy Jealousy’s Tattoo Lotion: This all-in-one moisturizer, containing shea butter, green tea leaf oil, and jojoba oil, is fragrance and paraben-free. It nourishes and hydrates tattoos, while colloidal oatmeal soothes the skin and prevents dryness or flakiness. Tattoo artists appreciate its occlusive properties, which create a protective barrier on the skin.
Tattoo Goo: This lightweight lotion is designed for use anytime during healing. Unlike other products, it does not contain petroleum or lanolin, which can suffocate the skin and slow recovery. It also includes color enhancers to maintain the brightness of the tattoo. Apply the ointment three or four times daily until complete healing occurs, and continue using the lotion afterward.
Moisturizing Your Whole Body
Proper care of a new tattoo involves maintaining a clean body and moisturizing regularly to aid healing and prevent issues like scabbing or itching. Using a mild fragrance and hypoallergenic lotion can minimize irritation. Using creams specifically designed to reach hard-to-reach spots like the back is also recommended.
