There are multiple ways of expressing one’s self. Whether that be through a personalized apparel style, a unique or timeless haircut, or if you are going for something a little more permanent, body ink. Tattoos are a great way of expressing who you are to the world, regardless if they understand your ink or not. But what if this is your first one?
If this is your first tattoo, then welcome to the club! Getting inked is an incredibly personal journey, and even if you’re still in the initial “research phase,” whether that be looking for the right tattoo design, or reading up on maintenance, I suggest you do your due diligence by making sure you ask all necessary questions of your tattoo artist. But of course, here at The Manual, we have you covered on tips you need to follow for your first tattoo, including optimal aftercare.
Tattoos are one of the ultimate and most personal forms of self-expression that allow you to use your body as a literal blank canvas to create art. Tattoos can symbolize triumph, pay homage to a lost loved one, or simply exist just because you love their look. Whatever the reason, there is one thing they should have one thing in common, according to experienced tattoo artists: Diligent after-care. One of the most crucial steps after getting your tattoo is understanding what products you need to ensure a healthy and speedy healing. You want to keep your new ink as moisturized as possible to avoid itchiness and dryness. The last thing you want to do is delay the healing of your beautiful ink by scratching it and causing possible damage. Here are some of our picks for Tattoo Artist approved, tattoo lotions, salves, and creams in 2023.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
It should come as no surprise that this O.G. comes first on our list of best products for tattoo aftercare! For anyone who has gotten inked, you will know that Aquaphor is a tried and true necessity for a speedy healing process. Because of Aquaphor’s ultra-hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, it allows freshly inked skin to not only be moisturized but protected. The main ingredient, petroleum jelly, contains mineral oil which is great for creating a protective barrier on the skin and keeps moisture locked in.
After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, After Inked Aftercare is great for healing new tattoos, as well as keeping older tattoos looking their best. Did we mention this is 100% vegan? That’s right, this moisturizer has a patented vegan formula that is rich in grapeseed oil. Grapeseed oil is a lightweight and fast-absorbing oil that’s rich in vitamin e which helps heal the skin.
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Lotion
Tattoo Goo was created with sensitive skin in mind. Safe for everyday use on both your face and body and enriched with Panthenol which great for restoring the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm
This tattoo balm from Viking Revolution offers a non-greasy and chemical-free formula. This works on both new and old tattoos to soothe, moisturize, and revive.
Heal Co. Whipped Tallow Cream
Can you say that the products and ingredients that you put on your skin are edible? Well, with this healing salve, you definitely could. Heal Co. created an excellent all-natural, all-purpose healing miracle so well that people with severe skin issues like eczema and psoriasis have had wonderful improvements in their overall skin conditions. Lest we not forget, the skin is our largest organ, so this may be the best bet for those with super sensitive skin.
Hustle Butter Deluxe
With 4.8 out of 5 stars and nearly 13,000 ratings on Amazon, you can put all your confidence in this easy to use and tattoo artist-approved after-care balm. This balm is certified cruelty-free, 100% vegan, and includes all-natural butters including shea, mango, and aloe butters.
Malibu Tan Hemp Tattoo Enhancing Body Moisturizer
This full-body moisturizer not only nourishes the skin but also improves the appearance of tattoos. This formula contains coconut oil, aloe vera, and hemp seed oil that helps protect skin against dryness and itchiness.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration Moisturizer
This Ultra Repair Cream is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides that provide immediate and visible relief for even the driest of skins. This skin protectant is clinically proven to increase hydration by 169% upon application.
Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion
This lightweight, fast-absorbing and non-greasy body lotion fights dry skin at its source. This is a great choice for taking care of your new tattoo because of its glycerin content. Glycerin is a moisturizing humectant that pulls and absorbs moisture from the air, which basically means your skin will retain more water, keeping the scabs and flakes at bay!
Ora's Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve
If you’re looking for a more natural tattoo aftercare solution, you might want to give this gem a try. This salve is slow-infused with a blend of herbs that help reduce itching, soothe inflammation, and minimizes the risk of infection.
Remember, everyone wants their ink to look well long after the tattoos have settled. The first step in doing so is proper, immediate aftercare. These tattoo lotions, creams, and salves are the best options for optimal tattoo hydration.
