Tattoo Healing: When to Stop Aquaphor? Experts Say

Aquaphor lotion can help keep your tattooed skin moisturized. It also eases the healing process by preventing dryness and protecting against infection. However, Aquaphor is only recommended for the first few days of healing, not for long-term use. Let’s understand how long you should use Aquaphor on a tattoo. 

Key Takeaways:

• Use Aquaphor ointment on a new tattoo for the first 3-4 days.
• To apply: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Apply a thin layer of ointment to the clean, dry tattoo and gently smooth it over the area. Avoid excessive rubbing. Repeat this twice a day.
• After 3-4 days, switch to a fragrance-free, gentle lotion like Lubriderm. Continue applying a thin layer of Lubriderm twice a day for the next 2-4 weeks or until the tattoo heals completely.

What Is Aquaphor?

Aquaphor is a skincare brand that is known for its high-quality skincare lotions. Most of its skincare products are used to moisturize and smooth dry and irritated skin. Aquaphor also has additional tattoo-friendly ingredients that can be super beneficial for aftercare. 

For instance, it keeps the tattooed skin moisturized, which is essential for speedy healing. Additionally, it protects the skin from infections that could slow down the healing process. As a tattoo artist, I used Aquaphor on my new tattoo and also recommended it to my customers for use over the first few days.

 When to Stop Using Aquaphor on Tattoos? 

Proper aftercare is essential for your new tattoo. It helps prevent infections and speeds up the healing process. Post-care also keeps the ink’s color vibrant and fresh for a long time. However, it’s important to use the right product, like Aquaphor, that is safe for fresh tattoos.

So, apply a thin layer of this ointment, gently massage it into the tattooed skin, and then allow it to absorb for a few minutes. For the first 3 to 4 days, keep applying Aquaphor lotion twice daily. However, if your skin feels excessively dry and tight, you can apply it three times a day. Once your tattoo shows signs of healing after a few days, you can stop using Aquaphor on a tattoo.

Tip: It is essential to avoid leaving the ointment on the tattoo for too long, as a new tattoo requires proper oxygen for healing. 

Is Aquaphor Good For Tattoos?

Many tattoo artists, including me, recommend using Aquaphor for aftercare. Aquaphor’s products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients to prevent skin from drying out and getting infected. This helps keep your tattooed skin hydrated and promotes a faster healing process. Aquaphor is a safe choice for tattoo aftercare, as it does not contain any dangerous or harmful substances.

How To Apply Aquaphor To A Tattoo?

Applying an Aquaphor to a tattoo is easy, but it’s essential to use it correctly. Follow the following instructions: 

 Step 1: 

Wash your hands and surrounding tattooed skin with good antibacterial soap and warm water to get rid of any bacteria, dirt, or any other substances. Once it is cleaned properly, allow it some time to dry completely.  

Step 2: 

Use the top of your finger to apply a pea-sized amount of Aquaphor to the tattoo and gently rub it on the tattooed skin. Also, make sure the entire tattoo surface is coated. It must be applied thin enough to form a layer but not so thinly that the surface becomes shiny or oily.

 However, avoid removing any scabs or dry skin from the tattooed area when rubbing Aquaphor into the skin. If you want your skin to feel fresh after a few days, try switching to another tattoo lotion or moisturizer without any added aroma.

Benefits Of Using Aquaphor On Tattoos 

Moisturising 

Aquaphor is an important part of tattoo aftercare as it helps to control the moisture levels of the tattooed skin. As a result, it promotes faster healing. Further, hydration is crucial in preventing scabbing and cracking, which can cause several problems. Therefore, using Aquaphor can help to prevent dry skin and associated issues during the healing process.

Keeps Tattoos Safe

Using this lotion on a new tattoo is a great way to protect it from dirt, microorganisms, and a fraction of clothing. Some studies have suggested that Aquaphor can reduce the risk of infection and other complications.

Soothing Benefits For Your Skin

This aftercare lotion can reduce redness, inflammation, and pain associated with tattoos. This post-treatment product soothes the skin, calming the tattooed area.

 Keeps Tattooed Skin Safe From Irritation

Using Aquaphor lotion on a new tattoo can help keep the skin safe from irritation. This gentle, unscented ointment may help reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

FAQs

Conclusion

Aquaphor’s ointment is commonly used to promote the healing and smoothness of fresh tattoos. However, it’s essential to know the correct duration of its use on tattoos. Typically, it is recommended to use this ointment only for the first 3 to 4 days after getting a new tattoo.

Moreover, it’s important to avoid using excessive amounts of this ointment. Applying excessive Aquaphor can irritate the skin and cause the tattoo ink to fade, increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, apply only a thin layer of the ointment and cover the application area with a cloth that allows air to pass through while protecting it overnight.