15 Best Creams And Lotions For Tattoos – 2024, As Per An Esthetician
To heal and gently soothe any irritation or redness your newly inked skin faces.
Nichelle TempleEsthetician 
Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio with over a decade of experience in microcurrent, HydraFacial, and holistic skin care treatments. She is passionate about using professional-grade and organic produ... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
aditi naskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is ... more
ramona sinhaMA (English Literature) Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Beng... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Tattoos help us express ourselves. So, while you may be all excited to flaunt your new tattoo, it is important first to use the best tattoo creams and lotions to take care of your punctured skin. These creams and lotions moisturize your skin and keep it infection-free.
If you are a tattoo artist and want the best for your clients, we suggest you stock up on some of these good-quality creams. While selecting a cream or lotion for your new tattoo, make sure you choose something with a skin-friendly and fragrance-free formula. We have compiled a list of the best tattoo creams and lotions in this article. Scroll down to take a quick look at them!
In This Article
When Should You Apply Lotion To A New Tattoo?
The cream should be applied as soon as the tattoo starts drying. Start using a moisturizing lotion on your tattoo after 3 days to get the best results. Use it around 2 to 3 times a day to keep your skin moisturized and lubricated.
What Lotions Should You Avoid With Tattoos?
One must avoid fragranced lotions, A+D ointments, and white cream lotions. All of these produce a burning sensation when applied to the tattoo and can cause redness and itchiness.
Now, that you know when you should start using tattoo lotions and which ones you should avoid, let’s check out the best creams and lotions for tattoos available in the market.
15 Best Creams And Lotions For Tattoos – Protect & Heal The Skin
1. Best Overall:Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy is a great on-the-go solution to protect and soothe extremely dry skin and minor irritation. Unlike other creams or lotions, this dermatologist-recommended tattoo ointment is frequently recommended by tattoo artists for aftercare. The 41% petrolatum restores healthy skin. It creates a protective barrier over the skin, allowing easy flow of oxygen and fluid.
Nichelle Temple, an esthetician, says, “A little goes a long way with Aquaphor. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.”
Key Ingredients: Petrolatum
Pros
- Easy to spread
- Clinically proven
- Offers intense hydration
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Preservative-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Greasy texture
"This is a multipurpose healing ointment for a variety of dry skin issues. It works on delicate baby skin and also the intense dryness brought on by weather or even medical treatments. It hydrates my tattooed skin effectively without a greasy residue. While it's especially beneficial at night for intensive healing, the thick consistency is not very pleasant for outdoor use."
2. Best For Sun Damage:Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Daily Moisturizing Cream
Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Maintenance Cream is a vegan alternative for the traditional tattoo lotions. It is as rich and luxurious as it sounds. This clinically tested and certified product lubricates the skin for faster tattoo scar healing. It is made of natural ingredients such as shea butter, sunflower oil, aloe vera, and mango butter. These ingredients hydrate and heal the skin, keeping it soft and smooth. It is a perfect replacement for petroleum-based products and makes your skin feel rejuvenated. This cream also allows your skin to breathe easily and helps in tattoo infection prevention. Moreover, the formula is not tested on animals, which makes it a reliable cruelty-free option.
Key Ingredient: Shea butter, Mango butter, Aloe vera, Coconut oil, Sunflower oil, Rice bran oil, Rosemary Green tea, Vitamin E, Mint oil, Papaya, and Coconut oil
Pros
- Prevents sun damage
- Hydrating formula
- Creamy texture
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Clinically-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- Easy to use
Cons
- Greasy
- Expensive
- Requires frequent reapplication
Quick TipItching is lessened by the cooling properties of mint oil. Additionally, it lessens skin inflammation, which significantly lessens pain near the tattoo.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 20,602 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
3. Best For Hydration:Eucerin Intensive Care Lotion
Image: Eucerin Eucerin Intensive Care Lotion is a 3-dimensional system that moisturizes, exfoliates, and smoothens dry and flaky skin. This dermatologist-recommended ointment is enriched with alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin and restores the skin radiance. The combination of Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs), hydrogenated castor oil, and dimethicone offers intense moisturization to the skin. It delivers 24-hour hydration and improves your skin.
Key Ingredients: Alpha hydroxy acid, Castor oil, Lactic acid, and Dimethicone
Pros
- 24-hour hydration
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Affordable
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Sticky
- Difficult to apply
- Contains mineral oil
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 17,708 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy Best Overall | Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Daily Moisturizing Cream Best For Sun Damage | Eucerin Intensive Care Lotion Best For Hydration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.52 x 6 x 3.88 inches | 2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 inches | 3.35 x 1.7 x 9.15 inches |
| Weight | 15.75 Ounces | 6.4 Ounces | 1.1 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 7,583 | 20,602 | 17,708 |
| Price | $23.39 | $37.7 | $11.77 |
4. Best Non-Greasy:Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm
Viking Revolution Tattoo Balm is a vegan moisturizer with a non-greasy finish that you can easily add to your skincare routine. It contains no harsh chemicals and, hence, is 100% safe to apply. The gentle natural ingredients in this tattoo care balm not just soothe and moisturize the sore skin but also speed up the healing process. It is specially made for tattoos and is used to keep them looking vibrant for years. Its gentle and chemical-free formula does not clog the pores and, thus, nourishes the skin.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter and Hemp seed oil
Pros
- Easy to spread
- Pleasant fragrance
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Value for money
- Works on older tattoos
- Chemical-free
- Non-greasy
- Vegan
Cons
- May irritate the skin
5. Best For Itchy Skin:Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve
Infused with organic herbs, Ora’s Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve is an ideal choice for tattoo swelling reduction and aftercare. It offers relief from itchiness and redness and reduces the risk of infection. This results-driven product is mildly scented with cedar leaf, tea tree, and rosemary to keep any odor away. Apply a thin layer of Ora’s Amazing Herbal Salve to your new tattoo and keep it lubricated without clogging pores or leaching color. All the ingredients in this salve are carefully selected to expedite the healing process.
Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, Organic coconut oil, Beeswax, Vitamin E, Rosemary essential oil, Thuja oil, and Tea tree oil
Pros
- Lanolin-free
- Aloe-free
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Dye-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Easy to use
- Natural ingredients
- Herbal fragrance
Cons
- May irritate the skin
"This tattoo aftercare balm has been quite comforting during the healing process. It's gentle enough for sensitive skin and manages itchiness and dryness effectively. It's versatile enough for general skincare woes like eczema or even mosquito bites. I like the mild eucalyptus scent of the formula that lingers on without being too much."
6. Best Gentle Formula:The Mad Rabbit Difference Tattoo Balm
Made from all-natural ingredients, the Mad Rabbit Tattoo Aid works great for all skin types and ink styles. It not just moisturizes the skin but maintains the vibrant color of the tattoo for many years. This UV protection balm keeps your skin cells healthy and adds life to dull and faded tattoos. What makes it worth trying is its texture. This petroleum-free tattoo aftercare cream spreads like butter on the skin and rejuvenates it in no time.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Beeswax, Cocoa butter, Calendula oil, Frankincense, Lavender, Sweet almond oil
Pros
- Brightens the tattoo
- Prevents ink discoloration
- Revives and refreshes old tattoos
- Eliminates dryness
- Vegan
- Natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
"This tattoo balm enhances the vibrancy of both new and older tattoos. It also soothes various skin irritations like shaving burns and raw noses from colds. I like the subtle, pleasant scent that does not feel too much. The formula is efficient and you need only a small amount for each application."
Quick TipMake sure the freshly tattooed area has been thoroughly cleaned of any dried blood in the first 48 hours after getting the tattoo.
7. Best Vegan:After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer And Aftercare Lotion
After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer And Aftercare Lotion is an ideal choice to preserve the tattoo vibrance of colored tattoos. This vegan product for tattoo ink preservation is enriched with natural ingredients that offer deep nourishment to the skin and elevate the healing process. It is clinically tested to ensure that the quality of the product meets the stringent standards that exceed your expectations. In addition to tattoo aftercare, this lotion can be used on any permanent makeup procedure on your brows and lips to prevent skin irritation. Many reviewers on e-commerce websites have mentioned that the moisturizer makes the tattoo look new and the skin feel refreshed.
Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil
Pros
- Non-allergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-irritant
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Petroleum-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Expensive
"This tattoo aftercare product helps me maintain both new and existing ink. It's a non-greasy, unscented moisturizer that helps in faster healing, with less peeling and minimal color loss. Quick tip, chilling it in the freezer adds a comforting, cooling sensation that's nice during the aftercare phase."
8. Best Non-Comedogenic:Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
If you are budget-savvy and looking for an affordable option, then Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion might be a great choice for you. This lotion keeps your skin moisturized and lubricated the entire day. The formula is infused with highly nourishing colloidal oatmeal that helps in calming inflammation, redness, and skin irritation. Its gentle redness relief formula helps improve the skin condition in 2 weeks.
Key Ingredients: Colloidal oats and Dimethicone
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Difficult to spread
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 11,738 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
9. Best Quick-Absorbing:Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Skin Therapy Lotion
Searching for a long-lasting moisturizer? Look no more! Add Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Skin Therapy Lotion to your collection and keep your skin nourished all day long. Its quick-absorbing formula comes with a fresh, clean scent and is specially formulated for your skin care needs. This lotion penetrates deep into your skin to deliver intense hydration that lasts up to 24 hours. It contains a triple vitamin blend that heals the skin, shields it from environmental aggressors, and improves the skin texture.
Key Ingredients: Aloe, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Acts as a skin-protectant
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- None
10. Best Value For Money:Lubriderm Dermatologist Developed Daily Moisture Lotion
Lubriderm Dermatologist Developed Daily Moisture Lotion is an unscented formula that replenishes and moisturizes normal to dry skin. Its clinically proven formula is enriched with moisturizers that heal and nourish the skin. Plus, it improves the skin’s moisture barrier and offers a pleasant, soft, smooth, and clean feel to the skin. It gets absorbed in seconds and nourishes your skin for hours. Apply a thin layer of Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion and revive your inked skin within no time while keeping the tattoo clean.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin B5
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Fragrance-free
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Easy to spread
- Light fragrance
- Lanolin-free
- Affordable
Cons
- No SPF
"This fragrance-free lotion is effective for a range of uses, from moisturizing dry body skin to soothing freshly inked skin. Its thicker consistency hydrates well without leaving a greasy feel. This is a staple for my daily moisture maintenance."
11. Best For Sensitive Skin:Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Lotion
Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Lotion is a natural tattoo aftercare product that is mainly developed for sensitive skin. It is formulated with a unique combination of skin-loving ingredients that moisturize dry, freshly inked skin. This lotion gets absorbed quickly into the skin without clogging the pores. Its unique water-based formula restores the skin’s natural moisture balance, speeds up healing, and protects the ink from fading. This lotion is free of alcohol and mineral oil, and it provides long-lasting protection against dryness.
Key Ingredients: Panthenol and Olive oil
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Dermatologist-approved
- Does not clog pores
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Petroleum-free
- Lanolin-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
"I've been applying this product to both new and seasoned ink, and the improvement is visible, especially in the vividness of older tattoos. It's a relief to find a moisturizer that doesn't irritate my sensitive skin or leave it feeling greasy."
12. Best Water-Resistant:CannaSmack Hemp Infused Ink Guard SPF 30
Formulated with premium hemp seed oil, CannaSmack Hemp Infused Ink Guard SPF 30 provides much-needed hydration and nourishment to your skin. Its water-resistant formula with a unique photostable UVB shield, SPF 30, and vitamin E protect your tattoo from fading. The help seed oil helps in healing inked skin, while aloe vera aids in taming inflammation and redness. Plus, the combination of beeswax, coconut oil, and sunflower oil keeps the skin hydrated. This mess-free formula for tattoo ink longevity spreads evenly on the skin. CannaSmack comes in a half-ounce chunky balm stick that prolongs the vibrancy of the ink in the tattoos.
Key Ingredients: Hemp seed oil, Aloe vera leaf extract, Beeswax, Coconut oil, Sunflower oil, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Water-resistant
- Easy to apply
- SPF 30
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Sulfate-free
- Color-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Petroleum-free
Cons
- Expensive
"Applying this tattoo sunscreen stick is a breeze, like a chapstick — no mess, no fuss. It's been part of my tattoo sun care routine, mainly because it effectively shields my artwork without leaving a noticeable residue. It is great for on-the-go protection and maintaining the vibrancy of tattoos."
13. Best Fragrance-Free:MARLOWE Sensitive Skin Body Lotion
MARLOWE Sensitive Skin Body Lotion is a fragrance-free moisturizer that softens and soothes sensitive skin to reduce itchiness. This tattoo aftercare lotion contains natural and organic ingredients that aid in skin restoration and moisture. It is rich in antioxidants that fuel skin cell repair and protection. MARLOWE body lotion is an ideal choice to reduce inflammation. It does not clog pores and makes the skin feel breathable. Lightly coat your skin with a thin layer of this lotion to accelerate the healing process.
Key Ingredients: Deep-sea algae extract, Green tea extract, Willow bark extract, Passion flower extract
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- No harsh ingredients
- Affordable
Cons
- Sticky texture
"This is a staple for daily use purposes. The creamy formula does not leave any oily residue behind. It absorbs relatively quickly, and its mild, natural scent is quite feminine. I like the pump’s controlled dispensing and the non-irritating formula that suits my sensitive skin."
14. Best Long-Lasting Effects:Dr. Tatty Premium Tattoo Numbing Cream
Dr. Tatty Premium Tattoo numbing cream is the ideal numbing cream to heal the skin from tattoos, piercing, microblading, or hair removal. The cream contains 4% lidocaine, which effectively numbs the skin for painful prickling and burning. The cream absorbs into the skin quickly, and its effect stays on for a long time providing maximum comfort during the skin procedure sessions. It has arnica montana flower extract that soothes the skin, and vitamin E aids in fast healing. It is a water-based, non-comedogenic cream that prevents sweating on the area of the skin going under the needle.
Key Ingredients: Lidocaine, Amica montana flower extract, Vitamin E, Emu oil, and Tea tree oil.
Pros
- Fast absorbing
- Long-lasting results
- Quick healing
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-greasy
Cons
- May cause skin puffing
"This cream has been a supportive companion all through my tattoo sessions. It effectively reduces pain when applied correctly. It's worth a try, especially on sensitive areas like the feet. A single application may not be enough for the entire session, and a reapplication prolongs the numbing effect."
15. Best Affordable:H2Ocean Ocean Care Skin Moisturizing Cream
Searching for a vegan, skin-friendly lotion for restoring color at a cheap price? If yes, this all-natural tattoo aftercare cream from H2Ocean might be the right choice. This water-based lotion comes in the form of gel and can be applied easily on the skin. It works great for all skin types and deeply nourishes the same. This moisturizing tattoo cream is designed to speed up the tattoo healing timeline and limit the damage to ink color. It is paraben-free and ensures a great tattoo healing experience with tattoo color retention.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, Cetyl alcohol, Rosehip seed oil, Purified water, Sea salt, Coconut oil, and Glycerin
Pros
- Easy to use
- Petroleum-free
- Unscented
- Gets absorbed quickly
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation
Tattoos are a way to express yourself but at the cost of damaging your skin. Lotions and creams are essential for healing and moisturizing your tattooed skin. They restore your skin’s elasticity and heal your skin’s ruptures. Therefore, invest in a tattoo-safe lotion if you plan to get inked soon. Since the market is filled with uncountable tattoo-safe lotions, choosing one for tattoo fading prevention is a task. So, we have curated some factors you should keep in mind when buying a cream or a lotion for your tattoos.
Things To Look For In A Cream And Lotion For Tattoo
1. Tattoo Specific: Look for a formula specifically designed for tattoo care. These lotions for tattoos are infused with anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain or discomfort caused by tattoos and avoid reactions.
- Must-Have Ingredients: Read the ingredients list carefully before purchasing a cream or lotion. Look for hypoallergenic, moisturizing ingredients that maintain the health of your tattooed skin. Pick lotions that contain any one or most of the following ingredients.
- Aloe Vera Gel: It soothes and moisturizes irritated skin.
- Shea Butter: It nourishes both dry and oily skin while healing the tattoos.
- Beeswax: It keeps the skin soft and helps prevent irritation or inflammation.
- Castor Oil: It is infused with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling.
2. Allergy-Tested: Make sure to purchase dermatologist-recommended creams or lotions that have been tested for toxicity. Opt for lotions containing only clean ingredients to reduce the risk of tattoo ink allergies.
3. Sun Protection: Choose a sun protection lotion containing SPF 30 or more to protect your tattoos from getting triggered and faded by sun rays. Additionally, look for a broad-spectrum lotion to protect your skin from UVA and UVB radiation.
4. Fragrance-Free: Go for unscented or fragrance-free lotions to prevent irritating your skin. Steer clear of products containing synthetic fragrances as they irritate the skin and delay the healing process of the tattoos.
5. Packaging: Opt for a tube or pump bottle to prevent dipping your fingers repetitively into the lotion. It is a hygienic and safe option for new tattoos.
Now that you know all the best tattoo creams and lotions available right now, here are some important pointers that will help you find the best lotion for your freshly inked skin.
What Should You Look For In A Tattoo Lotion?
1. Packaging: While choosing a tattoo aftercare lotion, the packaging of the product plays an integral role. Go for a tube or a pump dispenser as it prevents dipping your hand repeatedly into the product. However, if you choose a salve or a balm that comes in a pot, then make sure to wash your hands before using the same to avoid infection and contamination.
2. Fragrance-Free: Avoid products that contain artificial fragrances as they cause irritation and delay the healing process. Always go for products that are marked ‘unscented’ or ‘fragrance-free.’
3. Vegan Or Naturally Derived Ingredients: If you are concerned about your sensitive skin, opt for a product that is either vegan or contains natural ingredients. They tend to have anti-inflammatory properties and are much healthier for your skin than chemical-based products.
Infographic: How To Use A Tattoo Lotion For Skin Recovery
It is important to understand how to apply a tattoo lotion the right way to avoid irritating your skin and prevent color fading. Check out the infographic below to explore the step-by-step process of using a tattoo lotion and help heal your skin quickly.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Tattoos are one of the most common and artistic ways of expressing yourself. After getting a tattoo, it is important to moisturize the skin as it tends to dry once it is done. Tattoo care creams or lotions are required to heal freshly punctured skin. Try the Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy for its soothing properties. While the After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer And Aftercare Lotion provides deep nourishment. For those looking for faster healing of the tattoo scar, the Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Daily Moisturizing Cream is a great option. These irritation relief products moisturize the skin and put infections at bay. These are vegan, non-comedogenic, and paraben-free. It is always advisable to choose tattoo creams that are skin-friendly and hydrating. However, some might have greasy textures and require frequent reapplication. Avoid fragranced lotions as they can cause a burning sensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Jergens lotion on my new tattoo?
Yes. Once the tattoo has dried, you can apply a thin layer of Jergens lotion to speed up the tattoo healing process. Just make sure you use the unscented variant.
Can I use A&D cream on my tattoo?
No. A&D creams are petroleum-based and, thus, block the airflow to your skin. They can clog your pores and delay the healing process.
Is cream or lotion better for tattoos?
Creams have an oil content that keeps your skin nourished for several hours, but leaves a greasy feeling over the tattoo. On the other hand, lotions have a thinner consistency that penetrates easily into your skin without leaving a greasy residue. Both have equal tattoo healing potential, so choose one according to your requirements.
Can I put lotion and ointment on my tattoo?
Put unscented tattoo lotion and ointment on your tattoo.
When can I start using lotion on my tattoo?
Use a lotion after 24 to 48 hours of getting a tattoo. Always follow the instructions by your tattoo artist to prevent skin infections.
Can I use Nivea cream on my tattoo?
Yes. Nivea cream is a safe and effective moisturizer. You may use it on your tattoo to heal and nourish the skin.
What happens if you over-moisturize a tattoo?
Over-moisturizing is harmful as it can clog the pores, cause inflammation, and lead to skin breakouts. In extreme cases, it may develop severe infections.
Can you use Vaseline on tattoos?
No. Vaseline traps microorganisms and moisture in the pores, causing severe infections. Therefore, do not use vaseline on tattoos.
Will a tattoo heal without cream?
No. Although tattoos can heal without cream, the skin grows dry and tighter. Dry skin develops itchy sensations and slowly fades the tattoo color.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti penned this article to recommend the best creams and lotions to moisturize your skin and keep it protected and infection-free. She is a certified skin care coach and has written over 100 articles showcasing her expertise on the subject. She recommends these products based on the ingredients, fragrances added, packaging, application, price, and how easily they absorb into the skin.
