Can I use a Moisturizer on my Tattoo?
Having a tattoo done is a big step for a lot of folks and it’s important to know how to take care of it properly and not just leave everything to the artist who may not be available for aftercare.
How do you really keep your body art looking good over time? Using a moisturizer is one popular way many people consider, but can you actually use it on your ink? In this article, we will answer the question of whether or not you can use it on your tattoo and if there are benefits or harm that may come with this practice.
The simple answer to this question is both a yes and no, while it may be okay to use it on your design after it has healed. Moisturizing it too soon may not be the best decision.
When not to use a moisturizer on tattoos with reasons
You can use a moisturizer as soon as possible but make sure you have passed the initial healing stage. It is better to wait for at least a week or two before applying a moisturizing lotion. Applying too soon moisten and spreads the ink way too fast making it appear blurry which is what we don’t want.
Also, a moisturizer should be avoided if there is flakiness or peeling as this can worsen it and cause it to go off prematurely. It is better to ensure cleanliness and dryness of the skin during the first few days.
You can use a barrier protective cream to protect the areas which are often likened by experts to an open wound. The more infective agents are kept at bay, the better the chances of having a good result.
If there are signs of inflammation on the skin, you should never moisturize at this point, it is better to allow the skin time to resolve the inflammation before applying. If this is not taken cognizance of, it may make it worse and ruin your art.
Even when it’s right to use a moisturizer make sure to use one that is devoid of alcohol, not too harsh, and has less fragrance. This reduces the likelihood of skin irritations which may compromise the beauty of your new body ink design.
When to use a moisturizer on tattoos and the benefits
When it comes to how to take care of tattoos, there is a lot that should be considered as moisturizing is an important part of the aftercare process. It can help ensure that your tattoo remains to look vibrant for many years to come. Knowing when and how to use it on tattoos can make all the difference and keep them looking fresh, bright, healthy, and in their best form.
Most people, they can start using a good moisturizer on their newly acquired tattoo say two days after getting it done but the ideal is around a week to allow some healing time. This also reduces the likelihood of any adverse reactions that may arise from the use of the moisturizing product.
It’s best to choose one devoid of added fragrances or dyes as these can be too harsh on freshly tattooed skin. Unscented lotions are specifically designed for use on tattoos. They typically contain ingredients like Vitamin E that help keep skin nourished and hydrated. They also make it look beautifully vibrant after healing.
The hyaluronic acids and glycerin in them soothes skin, and reduce itching and flakiness during the healing process. It also acts as a humectant by locking in moisture and making the skin more elastic to resist cracking and fading of the ink.
Furthermore, the ink can fade over time due to too much sun exposure or other environmental factors but regularly applying a good moisturizer can prevent this by keeping the ink looking fresh and vibrant regardless of age.
How to choose the right moisturizer for tattoos
Choosing the right product to use can be challenging but there are certain factors to consider to make the best choice.
1. Ensure sure whatever product you choose is designed specifically for tattoos. Products meant for regular skin may not provide adequate hydration or protection needed, so look for one made with ingredients specifically formulated to nourish tattooed skin.
2. Look out for products containing soothing oils like hemp seed oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E that will help reduce irritation, redness, and itching as well as provide long-lasting hydration. Products that contain natural ingredients like almond oil or beeswax, will nourish the skin without causing irritation.
3. Look out for ingredients that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits like those with natural oils like jojoba or rosehip oil that can help reduce any inflammation that may occur in the initial stages of healing.
4. Products having strong fragrances and alcohol should be avoided as they can cause irritation on sensitive skin. By now you should know the skin becomes more sensitive after getting the art done.
5. Good products are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog pores. Anyone that does will alter the healing process and cause acne.
6. Additionally, they should be easily absorbed without leaving a greasy residue on the skin, again if present can worsen healing.
Again any product you decide on should be recommended by a dermatologist and should be hypoallergic, this means they are suitable for different skin types and less likely to cause irritation problems.
Best moisturizers to keep tattoos bright
Below are some of the best moisturizing agents you can use to keep your body tattoos looking vibrant and bright for many years to come, just the way you love it:
- Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baum
- Eucerin Intensive Repair Lotion
- Nivea Crème
- Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
- Zinc oxide mineral sunscreen
- Uv Restore sunscreen SPF 40
- Neutrogena Deep moisture body lotion
- Lubriderm daily moisture body lotion
- Avene Cicalfate= Restorative Protective Cream
- Aquaphor healing ointment
Conclusion:
Yes, you can use moisturizers on your Tattoo but the time of use matters a lot. To limit adverse reactions and get the best results from them, it is advisable to apply them a few days after getting your skin tattooed. This allows time for initial healing and confirms all the many benefits of the product without side effects.
