Once you leave the parlor, the aftercare process begins, and knowing when to put lotion on a tattoo is crucial for ensuring that it heals well.
This guide will help you navigate the ins and outs of applying lotion to your new tattoo, focusing on the optimal time to introduce lotion into your routine, crucial factors to consider, and recommendations to soothe and protect your art.
If you want a new tattoo from a shop that cares about your aftercare, schedule a consultation with us at Mantle Tattoo in Los Angeles.
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When to Apply Lotion on Your Fresh Tattoo
Ensuring your tattoo heals well and looks vibrant starts with knowing when to apply lotion. After getting your fresh ink, your tattoo artist might cover it with a bandage or a protective layer like Saniderm.
Once you remove this covering (which usually happens within one to three days post-session), it’s time to start moisturizing.
Begin by gently cleaning the area with a mild, fragrance-free soap, and then pat it dry. At this stage, your tattoo should feel slightly tight as if it may peel or flake.
This is the perfect time to introduce aftercare creams into your routine. A thin layer of Aquaphor or Lubriderm should be applied in a thin layer twice a day. This is especially important in the morning when your tattoo is likely at its driest.
Remember, every tattoo and skin type is unique. The key is to listen to your body—apply lotion when the skin feels dry and avoid over-applying. This balance aids in healing and helps showcase your tattoo at its best.
How Often to Put Lotion on
Timing your tattoo lotion application is important! Moisturizing your tattoo isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. A few things can influence when and how often you should apply lotion to your inked skin.
Tattoo Size: For larger tattoos, the skin may take longer to heal, which means it might require more frequent moisturizing.
Shading: Tattoos with shading might feel extra dry as more of your skin is healing.
Location: Tattoos in areas that are prone to more movement, like joints, can become dry quicker.
Skin Type: If you tend to have naturally dry skin, you might need to apply lotion more often than someone with oily skin.
Climate and environment: Dry, cold climates can strip your skin of moisture, necessitating more frequent applications, whereas humid environments might require less.
Keep these variables in mind as you develop your tattoo aftercare routine to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy.
How Long to Keep Saniderm on Your Tattoo
Saniderm is a popular choice for many due to its waterproof and breathable qualities that aid the healing process of a newly inked tattoo. It’s similar to cling wrap and is sometimes referred to as Tegaderm or Second Skin (other brands for the same product).
Typically, your tattoo artist will apply the first Saniderm bandage immediately after your session. It is generally recommended to keep this initial application on for at least the first 24 hours. During this period, the bandage will protect your tattoo from bacteria while absorbing excess ink and bodily fluids.
If you begin to see liquid seeping out of your tattoo, this is normal! If you feel it becomes too much, feel free to take off the Saniderm sooner than the recommended time. However, be sure not to leave it on for more than a few days as it can harbor bacteria.
Remember, it’s crucial to follow your tattoo artist’s specific instructions as individual experiences may vary.
What to Do After You Remove Second Skin?
Once you’ve removed the Saniderm, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap (some artists may recommend antibacterial soap), then dry it by patting with a clean towel.
After this, you’re ready to begin the next phase of aftercare: moisturizing. Your tattoo, now free from the bandage, is in a prime position to benefit from carefully chosen lotions to maintain hydration and promote healing.
Top Lotion Picks for Tattoo Aftercare
When choosing the right lotion for tattoo aftercare, you want products that nurture your skin without causing irritation. You can choose lotions that are specific to tattoo aftercare. However, we recommend keeping it simple and inexpensive. There is no reason to go crazy.
You probably have one of these at home already!
Aquaphor is Great for Tattoos
Particularly in the first week or so after taking off your Saniderm, applying Aquaphor can provide a protective layer, allowing it to keep in moisture for longer periods.
This is excellent for tattoos because it provides essential moisture, promoting healing while keeping the skin from feeling heavy or suffocated. To get the most out of it, we recommend rubbing it between your fingers before applying it to your tattoo so it goes on more evenly.
Important note: Do not use versions of Aquaphor that go directly on the skin.
These are not recommended for people with a fresh tattoo because:
- Friction can ruin your ink
- It will transfer bacteria
This is the version of Aquaphor we recommend: Aquaphor Healing Ointment (Amazon).
Lubriderm Works as a Lighter Choice
Lubriderm, a dermatologist-developed brand, stands out as an excellent lighter choice for tattoo aftercare, providing a smoother consistency that’s easy to apply.
Thanks to its rapid absorption, this lotion doesn’t leave a greasy residue, making it ideal for your daily routine. Infused with essential vitamins, such as B5, it offers hydration and nourishment without overpowering the skin.
When using Lubriderm, apply a small, even layer on the tattooed area to ensure it receives the moisture it needs to heal adequately. This can help in soothing irritation and promoting quicker healing. (It can also soothe itchiness!)
Its fragrance-free formula is perfect for sensitive skin, making it a safe choice for new ink. Keep in mind, using it in moderation is key; too much lotion at once can suffocate the skin, potentially causing irritation or delay in healing.
This is the version of Lubriderm we recommend: Lubriderm Advanced Therapy (Amazon).
Managing Itchiness: When Lotion Isn’t Enough
If the conventional methods of soothing your tattoo’s itchiness aren’t working, there are only a few ways to combat it.
Firstly, ensure you’re using a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer. These elements can often be culprits, making irritation worse. Read the ingredients list and if you see terms like “Parfum”, “Fragrance”, or “Alcohol” then you should stop using it immediately.
How often are You Washing it?
Additional itchiness can sometimes occur when you over- or under-wash your new tattoo.
Over-washing can dry out the skin, and not washing it often enough can build up itchy bacteria.
Wash twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, with fragrance-free soap. Some antibacterial soaps contain fragrance, so consult your artist for additional advice.
Try Ice
Another effective approach is applying a cold compress or ice to the tattoo. This can help calm the skin and reduce inflammation.
Wrap some ice cubes or an ice pack in a clean cloth and gently place it over the tattoo for short intervals. This gives a soothing, numbing effect, albeit temporary, to the area. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
Ask a Professional
If irritation continues despite your efforts, it might be time to consult with your tattoo artist or a dermatologist. They might suggest a specific ointment or identify if there’s an underlying issue requiring medical attention.
DO NOT Pick or Scratch
It’s equally crucial to avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, no matter how tempting.
Doing so can damage your tattoo and prolong the healing process, not to mention it will make the itchy feeling worse and last longer.
During this phase, patting or gently tapping the tattoo can provide a degree of relief without harming the area.
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