Have you ever come across clients whose tattoos aren’t as bright and lively as they expected them to be? Mostly, the reason happens to be the absence of the best lotion for tattoos.
If yes, you could relate to our current scope of discussion. Sadly, most tattoos fail to showcase the requisite sheen as individuals fail to incorporate perfect tattoo aftercare strategies. If you think we are exaggerating, here is a simple tattoo fact to look at.
Tattoo Fact: New tattoos need to be moisturized for an extended period or else the ink starts losing its shine.
This is the reason why you need to apply compatible products to speed up healing after getting a new tattoo, as we all know that tattoos are more like dermal wounds that need to be addressed from a therapeutic point of view.
Best Lotion for Tattoos — Quick Summary
If you are pressed for time, you can quickly skip the entire post and have a look at the top 3 lotions for tattoos. Therefore, if you are a tattoo artist or a client who is interested in moisturizing his or her skin after getting inked, the following lotions are a top-of-the-line choice, boasting antibacterial properties.
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While we have already talked about the importance and selections about the best tattoo aftercare products in a separate article, the best lotion for tattoos deserves a discussion. Unlike conventional tattoo creams and balms, lotions are runny and capable of covering a wider area. Besides, if you choose right, you can purchase the best lotion for tattoos that fits into your existing skincare regime, at no additional cost.
Now that we have you interested in lotions as preferred tattoo aftercare products, spare a few moments to skim through this discussion, precisely to identify products that fit into your tattooing skills, client base, and obviously, budget.
Best Tattoo Lotions to use in 2024
Now that we have the best product out of the way, it is important to talk about the same and even 9 other resourceful options at length.
1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment – Best Overall
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The Aquaphor healing ointment doesn’t deserve an introduction of sorts. Preferred by a majority of professional tattoo artists who run elite tattoo shops, this lotion is best suited for managing itchy surfaces. However, people also use the same for burns, chapped skin, and even minor cuts.
This tattoo aftercare product is more of an occlusive cream for the more laidback clients. Moreover, it isn’t just a typical lotion that moisturizes. Instead, the Aquaphor healing ointment helps create a natural barrier, thereby protecting the top dermal layer, even months after getting a tattoo.
Not just that, this product works even better if the tattoo ink is new. As the dermal layer is cut, it becomes prone to bacterial and pathogenic entry; something that is taken care of by this best tattoo lotion. The protective layer masks the skin surface with antibacterial potency, which in turn keeps issues related to irritation, redness, and itching at bay.
That’s not it as this ointment also boasts anti-inflammatory capabilities. Therefore, if you have multi-color tattoos to work with, this tattoo aftercare product is the one to choose. Apart from the protective properties, this best tattoo lotion also helps lock the moisture inside the surface. Therefore, you hardly experience scabs and the tattoo keeps looking fresh and bright for a long.
Coming to the usage and application, you would want to start with a small dot and circle outward. This form of application is recommended owing to the creamy texture of this healing ointment. Besides, the consistency is such that a single dot can cover the entire region. However, you might want to reconsider the same if you have oily skin as Aquaphor leaves a greasy after-feel, which might be a deal-breaker for some.
Overall, if you are looking for the best tattoo healing lotion that can supplement the dermal layer with daily moisture whilst allowing you to keep your tattoo bright for years together, the healing ointment from Aquaphor is the best possible option.
2. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing – Best for Skin Moisturizing
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Are you tired of tattoo lotions that clog skin pores and result in acne? If yes, then the non-comedogenic tattoo lotion from Aveeno is the best possible option. To start with, Aveeno is easily one of the more trusted brands when tattoo lotions are concerned. Moreover, the company even sells several tattoo balms, creams, and lotions under the Daily Moisturizing label and even allows for usage as a reliable aftercare product.
However, regardless of the hype surrounding the product, it is the ingredient list that makes quite an impression. Firstly, there is colloidal oatmeal extract added into the mix, which works as an occlusive agent. This means the product can trap moisture and keep the skin hydrated for a long. While there are quite a few other tattoo lotions in the market with comparable abilities, the one from Aveeno even promises 24-hour moisturizing.
Therefore, frequent application results in a smoother and more supple skin surface as oatmeal baths are mostly recommended to clients after demanding tattoo sessions. Besides, as oatmeal extracts can even take care of skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, you need not worry about their efficacy of the same. Not just that, this ingredient also alleviates the skin of the constant itch and dryness.
Besides, this best tattoo lotion also comprises emollients, which come with nourishing abilities. Therefore, if you want the skin surface to heal faster than usual, this is the go-to aftercare product. Then again, you need to be consistent with the application to reap the benefits of this product.
Not just that, this is one of the more versatile tattoo lotions in the market that you can even use long-term if your skin surface is on the drier side. Moreover, this is one of the few products that can cover you as a client, if you fail to take care of your newly designed tattoo as recommended by the tattoo artists. This means, even if you were forgetful, your tattoo has a fighting chance with the Aveeno lotion to rely on, as the same promises to heal itchy surfaces within 5 days at max.
Overall, if you are looking for a popular and branded tattoo lotion that is fragrance-free and comes in a cost-effective bottle; this is the perfect product to invest in.
3. Hustle Butter Deluxe – Best Lotion for Skin Healing
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The Hustle Butter Deluxe is arguably the most balanced lotion on the market. While there are several great things about this lotion, it is the paraben and petroleum-free formulation that steals the limelight. This means, the Hustle Butter Deluxe is easy on the skin and doesn’t cause long-term effects, despite being used extensively.
Before we delve right into the list of ingredients, it is important to note that if, as an artist, you want to color tattoos or get a new one made of fresh ink, this lotion is almost indispensable. Moreover, unlike several aftercare products retailing in the concerned arena, the Hustle Butter Deluxe can even be used before and during the process, thereby making it easier for the artists to line, shade, and color pack with ease.
Not just that, you can even consider this tattoo butter as an integral part of the skincare routine, days before getting inked. This way, the skin responds better to the ink and even the needle. Moreover, even as an instantaneous tattoo balm, this product doesn’t have numbing effects and only assists with lubrication.
Coming to the ingredients, this product is packed with grape seed oil, which readily adds to the anti-microbial quotient of the same. Besides, you also get hold of Vitamin E essential oil, boasting skin rejuvenating and healing properties. Plus, the Shea butter and coconut oil further the occlusive properties of this effective tattoo lotion.
As far as the efficacy is concerned, applying the same before tattooing doesn’t impact the vibrancy and depth of the stencils or the needles. Moreover, you can expect the tattoo ink to come out brighter upon prior application. Then again, if you plan on using the same as an aftercare product, deploy it extensively for at least 14 days after the skin starts shedding.
The feel, however, isn’t for everyone as the Hustler Butter Deluxe boasts a rich and creamy consistency. Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a tattoo lotion for your tattoo shop or trying to get one as a client with a focus on irritation and itch reduction, the Hustle Butter tattoo lotion is the best tattoo moisturizer around.
4. Lubriderm Lotion – Best Oil-based product
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To be honest, the Lubriderm tattoo care product is a densely packed resource and the best overall option for your new tattoo, provided you are invested in ingredient quantity. However, each one of the components plays its part, thereby qualifying this as the most complete lotion in the market.
To start with, the Lubriderm lotion is an oil-based product, best used for preventing skin infections. Therefore, if your tattoo sessions have lately been harsher than usual, this is the perfect product to invest in. Then again, the composition is presided over by the likes of mineral oil, panthenol, glycerin, and even dimethicone. Each of the mentioned components acts as the base for the complete product formulation.
Furthermore, as reviewed by our trusted experts and team members who recently got inked, the Lubriderm lotion works perfectly on a ruptured skin surface and even helps minimize the stinging feeling that we all get at times. Not just that, it is usual for the skin surface to experience dryness, a few days after getting a tattoo. This moisturizer and aftercare lotion considers this aspect and boasts efficient hydrating capabilities.
However, what worked for us was the infusion of the elusive Vitamin B5. Unlike any other ingredient, Vitamin B5 heals the broken skin surface better and even works perfectly with new ink. Then again, Lubriderm lotion also comprises some of the more pacifying agents, including green tea extracts and jojoba oil, precisely for ensuring a state of holistic well-being.
As a tattoo aftercare cream or lotion, this product is easy to apply and doesn’t lead to a sticky substrate. However, you still need to apply the same care as a pea-sized dot would be more than enough to start with. Moreover, this product need not be washed from the hands, as it is more of a lightweight and non-greasy lotion.
Therefore, if you are in the retail space for a lotion that can be used multiple times a day, without you having to worry about the watery consistency, the Lubriderm lotion is the perfect option.
5. Eucerin Lotion – Best for Hydration
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For clients and tattoo artists who swear by hydrated skin, there isn’t a better product than the Eucerin lotion. However, unlike some of the more generic products in the market, Eucerin comes forth as a repair lotion. Better termed as the Eucerin intensive repair lotion, this product dates back to the early 1900s and has been making statements, ever since.
Then again, we could get our hands on a 16.9-ounce lotion bottle and were blown away by the quality that Eucerin has to offer. Firstly, we discovered that the Eucerin intensive repair lotion is more of a healing agent that scores additional brownie points when hydration is concerned. Besides, as it contains the elusive and much-anticipated Hyaluronic acid, it makes a perfect fit for extra-dry and flaky skin surfaces.
Besides, if your tattoo is new, you can blindly trust this product to take you the distance from harmful bacteria. Plus, this product also makes room for sunflower oil that keeps the tattoo glaze intact and the Pro-vitamin B5 that adds to the occlusive and moisture-trapping strength of the same.
Then again, we were most impressed by the inclusion of Vitamin C, which is one ingredient meant for skin elasticity. Therefore, continuous application of the Eucerin intensive repair lotion is also expected to keep your skin surface ready for tattoo retouches.
Coming to the application, you need to be mindful of the creamy and rich consistency of the same. Therefore, it is advisable to apply a small dot at first and see how well it covers the entire tattooed area. However, as perceived and tested, the consistency is meant for better skin penetrations.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a product that heals and hydrates with comparable gusto, it is advisable to invest in the Eucerin intensive repair lotion.
6. Tattoo Goo Lotion – Best with Olive Oil
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Much like the Aquaphor lotion, Tattoo Goo also comes forth as a dermatologist-tested tattoo lotion, best known for its top-of-the-line composition. For starters, this product eliminates any form of petroleum-based compounds and lanolin. Plus, the same is fortified with olive oil, organic jelly, and coconut oil, which are some of the best occlusive agents in the retail arena.
As far as the usage and efficacy are concerned, this tattoo goo balm-cum-ointment best acts as a protective barrier, after a person has been inked. This means, that with the concerned formulation, one can achieve faster healing and better anti-inflammatory responses. Moreover, this product comes loaded with all the essential vitamins, including B5, D, and A— with each capable of repairing the ruptured skin surface in different capacities.
What stands out though is the extra moisture that Tattoo Goo brings into the mix. Therefore, tattoo goo lotion is easily the best product to apply on a new tattoo provided you want to keep the color gleaming for a long. Moreover, you do not need to apply a lot of this lotion as the same gets absorbed rather quickly. Moreover, we didn’t experience any clogged pores and most of our experts experience more supple skin surfaces.
Overall, this is one of the best products for new inks, provided you are looking for an all-season product for your shop.
7. After-Inked Moisturizer – Best Vitamin-Enriched Tattoo Lotion
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The After Inked tattoo moisturizer is one of the better products to consider if you are looking for a vitamin-enriched profile. Therefore, this lotion can be used as a part of the holistic skincare regime. Not just that, the After Inked tattoo moisturizer offers a money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied with the quality and results.
As far as the composition is concerned, the Vitamin-enriched profile, including Vitamin E, C, and A, plays a major role in keeping the skin hydrated. Not just that, you can even consider using the same as an aftercare lotion.
Moreover, unlike some of the more popular lotions that have chemicals and petroleum-based compounds in them, this tattoo aftercare lotion exhibits a more natural profile. Therefore, you can consider the same both for new tattoos and even retouched ones. Not just that, this product is enriched with emollients, which lend added moisture to the dermal surface.
Lastly, if you are concerned about reddening skin and irritations, the oil-based composition, featuring grape seed oil, comes forth with alleviating properties. However, the best thing about the After inked tattoo moisturizer is that it eliminates the presence of scar tissues; which is common after a new tattoo is made.
Overall, After Inked tattoo moisturizer is a natural moisturizer and aftercare lotion to invest in, provided you are not interested in fragrances. However, to make the most of the product, you need to keep the same refrigerated.
8. Billy Jealousy – Best Lotion with Fragrance
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In case you are looking for a product that can enhance the color of your tattoo without compromising on the moisturizing aspects of the same, the Billy Jealousy Vibrant tattoo lotion is the best product to invest in.
For the unversed, this tattoo lotion is great at softening the skin surface while smoothing out the scabs and associated roughness, something that is common days after getting inked. Moreover, even though the smaller application is desired, this product is completely non-greasy. Also, the Billy Jealousy lotion is a quick-drying product to keep your tattoo new for years together.
Not just that, this product is packed with occlusive agents like Shea butter and jojoba oil, and even features green tea extract for keeping skin dryness and itching to a minimum. However, it is a white lotion with a fragrance of essential oils making it desirable to some. As the lotion stacks in lavender and rosemary, the latter shows up with a pretty distinct aroma.
Therefore, if you are fine with a fragrant product featuring an affordable price point, the Billy Jealousy advanced therapy healing ointment is the one to purchase as it also doubles down as a reliable tattoo care option.
9. Skinfix Inked+ – Best Aftercare Lotion-based Balm
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Despite being sold as an out-and-out body lotion, the Skinfix Inked+ is an excellent tattoo balm that might help you meander through the tattoo healing process. Firstly, the product comes in light-weighted packaging. Secondly, this is probably the only product on the list to feature Active Allantoin, which is one of the most potent moisturizing elements in the retail space.
Apart from that, Skinfix Inked+ is one product that acts as a protective barrier, right after getting it. This way, tattoo artists can prevent unmatched stretching and skin cracking, if and when the design dries out. As far as the ingredient list is concerned, there is coconut oil, jojoba extracts, and Shea butter to make peace with.
Applying the same is blissfully easy as you need to use the same at least two times each day to reap the diverse benefits of the same. Moreover, if this is the best lotion in the market that takes great care of color tattoos and the associated line definition, aspects that otherwise tend to fade away with time.
10. EltaMD Intense – Best with Sunscreen
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If you find someone who believes that tattoo lotions cannot be innovative, show them the EltaMD Intense. Coming straight to the specifications, this product comes equipped with advanced sunscreen capabilities, making it one of the best options for all-inclusive application.
In addition to acting as a protective barrier against sunlight, this lotion also helps minimize flaking, redness, and skin irritation. As far as the application is concerned, this product is best suited for skin surfaces that are extra flaky and even drier than usual. The only grimace regarding the usage is that it feels a bit greasier on an oily skin surface.
Besides, this lotion boasts a creamy consistency and is best used if applied at least three times a day. As it is meant for a healing skin surface, frequent applications are required. Not to mention, this lotion promotes faster flaking, thereby allowing your tattoo to stabilize at the earliest. Therefore, if you encounter increased flakes upon application, do not lose sleep over the same.
Overall, if you are game for a preservative and paraben-free composition that is easy to apply and even quite popular, the EltaMD Intense is a pretty reliable option!
How to Keep the Skin Healthy after Getting a Tattoo?
Now that we have talked at length about the best tattoo lotions to purchase in 2024, it is still necessary to discuss the holistic approach that becomes important after getting inked. Here are the basic steps to follow for getting a more fulfilling experience as a client:
Step 1. Prepare for tender, sore, and even reddish skin. This is the point where you should apply the best lotion for tattoos or an effective balm that comes infused with sunblock
Step 2. The itching standards after a week or two. This is when you need to invest in the best lotion for tattoos that is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamins.
Step 3. By the 4th week, the skin starts peeling, which is still quite normal. At this point, a more holistic skin care product, or rather the best lotion for tattoos with an oily composition might make sense.
Note: We would still ask you to consult a medical professional for existing conditions like diabetes, blood thinning, and more before getting inked.
FAQs: Best Lotion for Tattoos
How are tattoo lotions different from regular aftercare solutions?
Tattoo lotions, provided you select them with care have functionalities that aren’t restricted to aftercare.
Instead, you can even use them before and during the process, to make the skin feel more supple and accommodative towards the needles and stencils.
The best tattoo aftercare products comprise cocoa butter and also double down as body lotion alternatives.
What is the best lotion to put on a new tattoo?
Based on personal testing, price comparisons, and feature evaluation, Tattoo Goo lotion is the most impactful lotion for a new tattoo, owing to its fragrance-free formulation and capabilities as a moisturizer and aftercare lotion.
What kind of lotion is bad for tattoos?
Any lotion that has petroleum and paraben-based compounds, can be deemed unfit for tattoos.
What is the best thing to put on a new tattoo?
If you are still searching, consider a high-end tattoo balm with sunscreen to put on a new tattoo. Also, make sure that it is loaded with either shea or cocoa butter for added occlusion and adherence to diverse skin types.
When should you start putting lotion on a new tattoo?
The best time to apply lotion on the tattoo is early. This means you should consider applying the same within one to two weeks of getting inked for the new tattoo to reap the benefits of the best tattoo lotions.
Top Rated Tattoo Lotions
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Bottom-Line
Considering the mentioned aspects, it is imperative to invest in a top-of-the-line and best lotion for tattoos. However, you should still opt for a tattoo moisturizer, more than a conventional lotion as the same offers a wider range of benefits.
Now that we have already mentioned the best lotions for the job, it is up to you to take a final call, based on the type, budget, and other factors. If you are still finding it hard to take a call, quickly purchase the Aquaphor healing ointment as the best lotion for tattoos, both new and old.
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