Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you press links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Care for your ink to keep it moisturized and looking vibrant.
Byrdie / Jaclyn Mastropasqua
“After all, they have to wear it on their skin every day,” they say.
We even tried a few out ourselves to assess the effectiveness and overall feel.
Finally, we consulted two tattoo artists for their insights on our top choices.
PHOTO: Amazon
In other words, it’s great for soothing and safeguarding your healed ink.
This lotion is also fragrance-free, so it’s unlikely to cause irritation if you’re sensitive to it.
Plus, it comes in a handy pump bottle with a super affordable price tag.
PHOTO: Amazon
The aroma comes from essential oils rather than a synthetic fragrance, though either can be potentially irritating.
However, the fragrance may trigger a skin reaction if you have particularly sensitive skin.
“It is all-natural and great for the skin,” she says.
Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
That said, it’s not as affordable as some equally effective drugstore options.
So whether you have a small fine line art tattoo or heavy blackwork, you’re covered.
That said, it is a screw top container, which may feel less hygienic than a pump top.
PHOTO: Amazon
Those looking for a vegan, cruelty-free, plant-sourced formula will appreciate this product.
Though it’s not fragrance-free, it’s formulated to be hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types.
However, if you have a skin condition like dermatitis, argan oil may make it worse.
PHOTO: Ulta
If your skin is freshly tattooed, this gel-like lotion will help soothe irritation while supporting the healing process.
But it’s not great for anyone with an inflammatory skin condition.
We love that H2Ocean Aquatat is a fragrance-free, petroleum-based moisturizer that promises to create a protective barrier.
Courtesy of Amazon.
This fragrance-free, highly occlusive moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, freshly tattooed skin.
By lubricating the skin so well, Tattoo Goo can help make your tattoos look brighter and more vivid.
This rich balm promotes skin healing while making your tattoos look sharper.
PHOTO: Amazon
We love it for people who aren’t a fan of petroleum-based products.
Consider reaching for purecoconut oil.
This single-ingredient, all-natural product is perfect for those who want simple, natural skincare that’s actually effective.
PHOTO: Amazon
However, steer clear if you don’t love an oilier feel.
It’s a small container, but a little goes a long way.
Pop it in your bag to apply it on the gojust ensure you clean any healing tattoos first.
PHOTO: Amazon
It even works as a quick fix for flyaways and unruly eyebrows.
The simple, three-ingredient formula contains two forms ofcastor oilandglycerin.
This oil-free, water-resistant, fast-absorbing lotion offers broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection.
PHOTO: Amazon
It’s a hybrid sunscreen, meaning it contains bothmineral and chemical protection.
But since it’s a water-based lotion, it isn’t recommended for tattoo aftercare.
You should apply lotion to your tattoo a couple of times every day during the healing period.
PHOTO: Amazon
Though it varies from person to person, healing usually takes two to four weeks.
2013;12(2):163-164. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40521-020-00275-7
Abid Keen, M.; Hassan, I.Vitamin E in dermatology.Indian Dermatology Online Journal.
Published 2014 December 23.
PHOTO: Amazon
Kim JH, et al.Beneficial Effects of Marine Algae-Derived Carbohydrates for Skin Health.Marine Drugs.
May 27, 2017;4 : 245-259. doi: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.05.006.
2017;15(3-4):75-87. doi:10.3121/cmr.2017.1363
Cleveland Clinic.What to expect when you get a tattoo.
PHOTO: Doctor Rogers
Rostron A, Cox-Davenport RA, Shepherd R.Aftercare should not be an afterthought.Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association.
2015;7(4):199-202. doi:10.1097/jdn.0000000000000138
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Sephora
