Your tattoo doesn’t end the moment your artists stops putting ink. It ends after the proper tattoo aftercare that should last from 1 to 2 weeks. This aftercare should be done with proper lotion and, so, we put together the best guide on the internet to help you choose the tattoo aftercare lotion that is right for you.

This guide was written in partnership with Ink-Match, a platform that helps you find talented tattoo artists as well as choose your perfect design. They work similarly to TattoosWizard but are more focused on helping you find the right US artist.

And if you want to know how to take care of your new tattoo, check out our guide here.

Best lotions for tattoo aftercare

Tattoos are a popular form of body art that can be beautiful and meaningful. Getting inked is a big decision, and it’s essential to do your research to ensure you’re getting the best possible care for your new body art. Aftercare is key to keeping your tattoo looking its best, and a few different products on the market can help. Here are our top five picks for the best lotions for tattoo aftercare.

Kronwel Premium Multi-use Balm

One of the newest products on the market, this tattoo balm is not only moisturizer for the aftercare but also a color enhancer, so you’re getting 2 in 1.

The balm is absorbed very quickly and has no petroleum jelly. It is also cruelty free and with all natural ingredients, including shea butter, purified beeswax and vitamin E to revitalize, soothe and nourish the skin.

It’s one of the few products that not greasy nor oily.

Price

14.99$

Pros

It’s very smooth and easy to apply compared to other products, specially balms, which is important when your tattoo is extra sensitive. 

Cons

It’s new on the market and doesn’t have that many reviews.

Hustle Butter Deluxe

Hustle butter deluxe is a tattoo aftercare product that helps heal your tattoo and maintain the color and vibrancy of your ink. This product is 100% natural and vegan. It’s also fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic so it won’t clog your pores.

Top tattoo places recommend this aftercare, and it’s a luxurious experience. It’s packed with vitamins A, D, E, and F, which help to soothe and heal the skin. Hustle Butter Deluxe also contains shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter, aloe vera juice, and more to help keep your tattoo healthy and hydrated.

Price

21.99$

Pros

Most popular tattoo aftercare product on Amazon. Has almost 20.000 reviews and it’s rated 5 stars. It’s vegan and has no petroleum.

Cons

Somewhat expensive option compared to the others. Takes some time to absorb which is not so comfortable when you have a new tattoo.

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit

One of the most popular choices, Tattoo Goo is great for those looking for a product to help soothe their skin and keep it moist after a tattoo.

The balm specially great. A little hard to get out of the tin but smooth once it warms up on your skin. It helps keep your it moisturized and helps to speed up the healing process and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and redness.

The aftercare contains aloe vera, which will help to keep your skin hydrated. It is available in a cream and a spray form, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Price

14.96$

Pros

Vegan product. The kit includes Antimicrobial Soap, Tattoo Balm, and Tattoo Lotion. It has no aloe vera nor petroleum. 

Cons

The packaging is not so great and the quantities are only enough for a small or midsize tattoo

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Enhance Balm & Aftercare Cream

This product is number 1 for tattoo aftercare on the Amazon store. It is very thick and creamy, and it helps to lock in the moisture. 

It should be used in conjunction with the Soothing Gel which is softer on the skin and better for the first few days of your tattoo.

Price

17.99$

Pros

Great smell and very soft on the skin, which is essential when it’s red and sensitive. Can also be used in later stages to keep it hydrated and vibrant. 

Cons

Some people complain about the smell. The consistency is also bit hard, like coconut butter (gritty and hard when cold). 

Aquaphor healing ointment

It is a popular choice for a tattoo aftercare product because it creates a barrier on the skin to protect it from outside irritants. Aquaphor also helps lock in moisture, so your tattoo doesn’t dry out and crack. You can apply this ointment as often as you need to, but ensure you don’t overdo it because too much of any product can lead to irritation. If you are looking for something that will heal your tattoo quickly and efficiently, this is the option.

It’s light but intensely moisturizing and quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. It is also fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-recommended.

Price

13.19$

Pros

The most trustworthy and cost effective option. It has a 5 star rating on Amazon even with over 60.000 reviews. 

Cons

It’s not specific for tattoos, it’s directed at dry and damaged skin, so it will do the work. Somewhat similar to vaseline, but less greasy.

What to look for in a tattoo lotion?

When tattooing, it is essential to keep the area clean and moisturized. It will help the tattoo heal quickly and prevent infection. There are many different lotions on the market, so it isn’t straightforward to know which one is right for you. Here are a few things to look for: 

• Look for a fragrance-free lotion. You don’t want to irritate your skin with a strong scent while healing. 
• Choose a cream that is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It won’t clog your pores or cause any allergic reactions. 
• Make sure the cream is oil-free. You don’t want to add any extra oil to your skin while it is healing. 
• Look for a cream that contains aloe vera or chamomile. These ingredients will help soothe your skin and prevent inflammation. 
• Choose a lotion that has SPF 30 or higher. It will protect your tattoo from the sun and keep it looking bright for years to come.

Tattoo aftercare is essential because it helps your tattoo heal properly and prevents infection. There are many different options out there when it comes to aftercare lotions, but not all of them are created equal.

And while many products out there claim to be the best for tattoo aftercare, we’ve rounded up the top five that we think are worth trying. These lotions will help keep your tattoo healthy and looking its best.