14 Best Antibacterial Soaps For Tattoos (2023) + Buying Guide
Chemical-free and gentle formulations to keep your new inks from getting infected.
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli 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 edito... more
Anjali SayeeCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Hairstyles, Hair Care, & Skin Care
Experience: 7 years
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy ... more
A tattoo is a type of body alteration and a work of art in which a trendy or beautiful design is inked on the skin’s outer layer. The skin pores are opened by pricking them with a sterile needle to do a tattoo. Thus, you need the best tattoo soaps to keep your newly tattooed skin safe from infections.
Tattooing is a medical treatment in which ink is injected beneath your skin using needles. It may increase your skin’s susceptibility to bacterial infections. To reduce the chance of infection and wash a tattoo, you should opt for a good antibacterial soap for proper tattoo care. Take a look at some of our top picks!
Note: Before getting a tattoo, visit your doctor if you have any pre-existing skin conditions.
In This Article
14 Best Soaps For Tattoos
1. Best Tattoo Aftercare Soap:Dove Beauty Bar
Image: Dove The Dove Beauty Bar is a hypoallergenic formula specifically designed for sensitive skin. This moisturizing and microbiome-gentle formula is infused with glycerin, palm kernel oil, and essential fatty acids that cleanse the skin. These tattoo soap ingredients are gentle on the skin. The palm kernel oil is an excellent humectant that works together with glycerin to soften and lubricate the skin. It heals dry, itchy skin and nourishes it deeply. The dermatologically-approved and ultra-moisturizing formula effectively washes away bacteria and cleanses and nourishes sensitive skin. The 100% gentle cleanser creates a rich, creamy lather and provides a protective layer to the skin and replenishes and revitalizes it. Go through the video to learn more about the dermatologist-tested Dove Beauty Bar.
Pros
- 100% gentle cleanser
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- No harsh chemicals
- No fragrance
- pH-balanced
- Microbiome-gentle
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Skin-natural ingredients
- No soapy residue
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Dermatologist-tested
- Mild on inked skin
- 100% vegan formula
- PETA cruelty-free certification
Cons
- May contain little fragrance
Pro Tip2. Best Antimicrobial Liquid Soap:Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap
Image: Provon The Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap is formulated with mild skin cleansers, emollients, and skin conditioners like aloe and vitamin E that feel gentle on the skin and reduces the chances of a tattoo infection. It has 0.3% chloroxylenol, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, to inhibit the spread of infections. The skin conditioners counteract the harsh chemical effect and lock in moisture to hydrate your skin for a soft feel. This medicated formula has a lingering citrusy pleasant scent and is available in 3 sizes.
Pros
- Medicated formula
- Available in 3 sizes
- Gentle on skin
- Travel-friendly
- Pump dispenser
- Provides faster healing
- Preserves tattoo ink
- Lathers well
- Pleasant scent
Cons
None
3. VI Shea Butter Tattoo Soap
Image: Vi Tattoo Soap The VI Shea Butter Tattoo Soap is specially created for caring for new tattoos. The soap cleanses, protects, and revives the ink color. The mild soap doesn’t irritate or dry out your skin. The soap bar is loaded with raw shea butter that produces a creamy lather that keeps your skin moisturized even after cleansing with it. The formula is also rich in vitamin A, C, and E. Vitamin A helps in the regeneration process, provide good aftercare for your tattoos and smoothen your skin. Vitamin C and E are potent antioxidants that prevent your skin from drying up or scarring.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Rejuvenating
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
None
Caution4. Best OTC Antimicrobial Soap:Tattoo Goo Deep Cleansing Soap
Image: Tattoo Goo The Tattoo Goo Deep Cleansing Soap is one of the most popular antibacterial soaps. Its active ingredient is 0.5% chloroxylenol. It provides a broad spectrum of antimicrobial and antibacterial protection by inactivating bacterial enzymes. The combination of PCMX (chloroxylenol) with sodium lauryl sarcosinate (Lauricidin) derived from palm seed extract cleanses skin pores and reduces bacterial infection at the cellular level. This dermatologist tested fast-acting formula has a slightly acidic pH that eliminates infection-causing bacteria faster. The moisture-rich olive oil infusion makes your skin nourished and hydrated. It also has a silky-smooth texture that protects your tattoo. Taking this into account, many seasoned reviewers have tried, tested, and favored the formula for its exceptional performance.
Pros
- Alcohol-free formula
- Gentle on skin
- pH-balanced
- Eliminates germs
- Leaves no drying residue
- Removes dead skin
- Fragrance-free
- Lanolin- and petroleum-free
- Hypoallergenic
- No harsh chemicals
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologically-tested
- Infused with natural ingredients
- Provides faster healing
- Preserves tattoo ink
Cons
- Greasy
5. Best All-Natural Tattoo Soap:Cosco Tincture Tattoo Green Soap
Image: Cosco Green Soap The Cosco Tincture Tattoo Green Soap is a standard fixture in tattoo shops around the world and is used to disinfect the skin. This glycerin-rich formula also includes lavender and pure vegetable oils. It is an effective antibacterial liquid hand soap and a cleanser. This natural tattoo soap is used to remove dried blood and protein solids from the skin while inking. This is an eco-friendly soap and does not contain any harsh chemicals that may dehydrate the skin. Check out this YouTube video to learn more about the Cosco Tincture Tattoo Green Soap.
Pros
- Popular in several tattoo shops
- All-natural soap
- Disinfects skin
- Helps prepare the skin before inking
- An effective sterilizer
- Contains no harsh chemicals
Cons
- A strange smell
Pro Tip6. H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap
Image: H2ocean This antibacterial and vegan-friendly H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap heals the skin and prevents infection. Its active ingredient is 0.13% Benzalkonium Chloride, which is a potent antibacterial that disrupts bacterial cell membranes and reduces redness and inflammation even in low concentrations. The other ingredients in this vegan tattoo soap, like aloe vera and sea salt, provide hydration, seal moisture, relieve pain, and deeply cleanse the skin without clogging the pores. This scientifically formulated soap is free from harmful chemicals. It also is free of alcohol.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- 100% vegan
- Free from alcohol
- No added fragrances
- No harmful chemicals
- Moisturizing
- Disinfecting
- Professional-grade formula
- Reduces irritation and redness
Cons
- Expensive
- Poor quality pump
7. Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap
Image: Dial The Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap is the perfect antibacterial soap for use in sensitive areas. It makes rich and creamy lather that gently cleanses away all germs and disinfects the area. The soap has a perfect balance cleansers and moisturizers. It is infused with spring water that gives it a fresh, invigorating fragrance. With all-day odor protection, this tattoo-safe antibacterial soap leaves you with a refreshing feeling and keeps your skin healthy all day long.
Pros
- Gentle
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Fresh fragrance
- Suitable sensitive skin
- No harsh chemicals
Cons
- Can make your skin dry
8. Cuticura Medicated Antibacterial Soap
The Cuticura Medicated Antibacterial Soap is a pure, gentle, non-comedogenic formula made for blemish-prone skin. The active ingredient in this antimicrobial soap is 1.5% triclocarban. This expert-recommended product helps reduce bacterial growth on the skin. It deeply penetrates the skin and removes impurities and excess dirt without leaving pore-clogging residues. It also contains coconut acid and glycerin that condition the skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- No harsh chemicals
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Deeply moisturizes
- Reduces bacterial growth on the skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for blemish-prone skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Has a strong smell
9. Hustle Bubble Deluxe Tattoo Soap
Image: Hustle Butter Deluxe The Hustle Bubble Deluxe Tattoo Soap is a cruelty-free tattoo soap and is great for the post-tattoo and piercing healing process. It helps minimize irritation and prevent infection. The soap is infused with natural ingredients such as aloe vera leaf extract, castor oil, rosemary oil, green tea leaf oil, flower extracts, witch hazel, and comfrey leaf extract. The formula is moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and soothing – perfect for healing mildly injured skin. This fragrance-free tattoo soap also removes dead skin cells and impurities from the affected area.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- No harmful chemicals
- Unscented
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions in some users
10. Best All-Purpose Soap:Ink-Eeze Tattoo Products Prebiotic Foam Soap
Image: Ink-eeze The Ink-Eeze Prebiotics Foam Soap is one of the most popular choices among tattoo enthusiasts. This soap soothes skin before the inking process and also works as an aftercare healing cleanser. It is made with natural ingredients like saponified coconut water, plant-derived glycerin, aloe vera whole leaf, kelp extract, and sea salt. The coconut water and glycerin act as humectants and seal the skin moisture. They also reduce the pesky dryness after the inking process. The aloe vera leaf extract and kelp extract are rich in antioxidants and minerals that help soften and hydrate dry skin. The soap also retains natural moisture and soothes irritation and redness. It helps nourish the skin and leaves it supple and soft.
Pros
- Reduces swelling, redness, and irritation
- Moisturizes and softens skin
- Balances pH
- No harsh chemicals
- Seals skin moisture
Cons
None
11. VI Tattoo Aftercare Cleansing Soap
Image: Vitattoosoap The VI Tattoo Aftercare Cleansing Soap is specifically crafted to cleanse, nourish, and heal tattoos. The soap formula contains sea buckthorn fruit oil, a nutrient-rich ingredient, loaded with omega 7; it helps heal wounds like that of a tattoo. The hemp seed oil in the formula is a natural moisturizer that works together with glycerin to keep the skin soft and healthy. The formula is extremely rich in 21 amino acids, omega 3, and omega 6 fatty acids that repair and plump dry skin. The raw shea butter has a gentle and creamy lather that protects the ink.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Chemical-free
- Dye-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all types of skin
- Handmade
Cons
None
12. Ink Oil’s Tattoo Aftercare Soap
Image: Ink Oil The Ink Oil Tattoo Aftercare Soap is made of sustainably-sourced ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier, soothe redness, and reduce the recovery time of your tattoos. The antioxidants and fatty acids protect your skin against radical damage and keep your tattoos looking vibrant. This cooling soap provides immediate relief, whether you’re calming new tattoos or relieving pain elsewhere in your body. It also reduces scabbing and smells refreshing. This multipurpose product is also ideal for permanent cosmetics and microblading
Pros
- Calming
- Eco-friendly
- Does not sting
- Refreshing fragrance
- Suitable for permanent cosmetics and microblading
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not leak-proof packaging
13. Saniderm Cleansing & Nourishing Face & Body Bar
Image: Saniderm The Saniderm Cleansing & Nourishing Face & Body Bar is specially formulated to nourish the skin and heal tattoos. It is packed with sea buckthorn oil that moisturizes the skin and helps inhibit the tattoos from peeling. The formula is also enriched with lemon oil that removes free radicals and other irritants from the tattoos. The soap helps stimulates collagen production in your skin, promoting the recovery of tattoos. It also soothes itchiness and treats acne.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Phthalate-free
- Phenoxyethanol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Takes time to show results
14. Mad Rabbit Refresh Gentle Cleansing Bar Soap
Image: Mad Rabbit The Mad Rabbit Refresh Gentle Cleansing Bar Soap is a gentle formula that helps clean the tattooed area without stripping the natural moisture of your skin. It is packed with natural ingredients like aloe vera that soothes itchiness and glycerin that moisturizes the skin. It also contains coconut oil that nourishes your skin while detoxifying the pores. The soap is suitable for all skin types- inked and non-inked.
Pros
- Gentle
- Suitable for daily use
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-drying formula
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Takes time to heal the tattoos
A tattoo is a type of open wound and is susceptible to infection. Regularly cleaning it with a good antibacterial can protect it from any such infections. It also helps heal your newly inked tattoo evenly, while preserving the design.
There are many antibacterial soaps in the market, but only a few are equipped to effectively heal your tattoo to perfection. Here are a few points to keep in mind to choose the right antibacterial soap for your tattoo.
How To Choose The Best Antibacterial Soap For Tattoos
Ingredients To Look For
While choosing soap for tattoos, look for natural and gentle soaps with ingredients like glycerin, cinnamate, and vitamin B, which keeps the area moisturized while providing a hydrating barrier over your skin. This added hydration, prevents the disfiguration of your tattoos and helps with the healing process. Soaps containing ingredients like aloe vera, arnica, vitamins B5 and E, sea buckthorn, etc. can also help with healing your tattoo faster.
Also ensure that the soap you use is pH balanced as it prevents your delicate and freshly tattooed skin from drying out.
Ingredients To Avoid
- Fragrance: Make sure to avoid added fragrances in your antibacterial soaps as fragrance can cause irritation and damage to the skin.
- Parabens: Tattooed skin is very sensitive. Parabens not only cause irritation, but can also strip off the natural moisture from your skin, hindering the healing process.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can leave behind a burning sensation and cause discomfort to the tattooed area. It is also very drying for the skin. Thus, make sure you go for a soap free of alcohols.
- Allergens: Make sure to go through the packaging label of the soap and check for ingredients you may be allergic to. Ensure that there are no ingredients like gluten,nuts, aldehydes, esters, etc.
Skin Type
If you have dry skin, go for moisturizing formulas that contain shea butter, hyaluronic acid or aloe vera, which keep your skin conditioned. If you have sensitive, hyper sensitive or acne prone skin opt for antibacterial and hypoallergenic tattoo soaps.
New Vs Old Tattoo
While antibacterial soaps are usually intended to prevent infection and heal new tattoos, there are certain formulas that can be used with older tattoos, to prevent fading and keep future infections at bay.
These are the 11 best antibacterial soaps that protect your skin from infection after you get a tattoo. They also make your tattoo look more vibrant. In the following section, we have discussed how you can use a tattoo soap the right way.
How To Use A Tattoo Soap The Right Way
- Apply lukewarm water on the tattooed area using clean hands.
- Gently rub a generous amount of the soap over the tattoo. Concentrate on any built-up areas or areas with dried-up ink or blood.
- After cleaning, wash away any excess soap with lukewarm water.
- Dry the tattoo out by tapping with a paper towel. Do not scrub it.
- Apply a moisturizer to prevent any skin irritation or further dryness.
- Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day for about 2-3 weeks.
Choosing a specific antibacterial soap always helps. A regular soap may not always work in this regard. In the following section, we will see why.
Importance Of Choosing An Antibacterial Soap For Your Tattoo
Choosing an antibacterial soap preserves and heals your newly inked tattoo. A new tattoo is an open wound that is extremely vulnerable to infection. Hence, cleaning it regularly with a soap that has antibacterial properties can protect you from any infection. Most regular soaps may not be equipped in similar ways.
How do you pick the right antibacterial soap for your tattoo? We have discussed that in the following section.
Tips To Choose The Right Product
- Pick an antibacterial soap that is known to disrupt bacterial cell walls and reduce their growth.
- Check for the ingredients. Natural botanical extracts blended with active germicidal ingredients nourish, hydrate, and protect your skin from further damage.
- Beware of any harsh chemicals that may aggravate skin irritation.
- A scented, antibacterial soap may cause irritation to the skin. Choose a fragrance-free soap.
Infographic: Tattoo: Ingredients To Avoid In A Soap & Aftercare Tips
Getting a tattoo is just the beginning. Maintaining the color and overall appearance is a never-ending process. After removing the bandage from a tattoo, the first step is to wash the area with an antibacterial soap. So, picking the right product without harsh ingredients is essential to prevent skin damage.
The infographic below lists the ingredients to avoid in a soap. Scroll down to learn about simple tips and tricks to preserve the tattoo color for many years. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic
The Bottom Line
Choosing a high-quality antibacterial soap is important to protect your skin from any infection. It also retains the brightness of the tattoo. The Dove Beauty Bar is a mild and gentle option, the Tattoo Goo Deep Cleansing Soap’s fast-acting formula reduces bacterial infection, and the H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap soothes and reduces inflammation. Such soaps add moisture to your skin and prevent further dryness. Pick the right antibacterial soap from this list. We are sure it will make your tattooing experience safer and more fun.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach. She knows what is good for the skin and finds products that suit every skin type. Her interest in reviewing and learning about new skin care products has led to this list of the best soaps for tattoos. She has browsed several online forums and researched the ingredients before curating this list. These soaps will help you keep your tattooed skin safe from infections and allergies.
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