Do you want to make sure that your new tattoo heals properly and keeps the colours looking clean and vibrant? The right tattoo aftercare is important, and choosing a suitable cream is one part of that.
We always give you specific aftercare instructions at the studio, but this guide can help you understand what kind of cream to use, what to avoid, and how to apply it correctly.
Which types of creams do we recommend?
1. Bepanthen
Bepanthen is a water-based cream often used to moisturise and support healing skin. Many people like it because it has a lighter texture than heavy petroleum-based ointments. If you use it on a new tattoo, apply only a very thin layer and make sure the tattoo can still breathe.
2. Easy Tattoo
Easy Tattoo is made specifically for tattoo aftercare. It is designed to hydrate the skin, soothe irritation from tattooing, and support the skin barrier while the tattoo heals. It is usually a good option for clients who want a product made for fresh tattoos.
3. Gentle fragrance-free aftercare creams
You do not need to use one exact brand. A simple, gentle, fragrance-free cream suitable for sensitive or healing skin can also work well. The most important thing is that the product is mild, clean, easy to spread, and does not contain ingredients that may irritate a fresh tattoo.
Are body lotions good for tattoos?
Not in the first stage of healing. Many body lotions are made for everyday moisturising, not for freshly tattooed skin. Once the tattoo has closed and is in the later healing phase, a mild fragrance-free moisturiser can be helpful if the skin feels dry.
Is coconut oil good for tattoos?
Use caution. Coconut oil can feel moisturising, but it is not made specifically for tattoo aftercare and may feel too heavy for some skin types. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, it is usually better to choose a lighter, fragrance-free product.
Should I use any specific brand for tattoo aftercare?
No, it is not a must. Bepanthen and Easy Tattoo are common options, but the product itself matters less than how suitable it is for your skin and for a healing tattoo. If you have allergies, eczema, very sensitive skin, or a medical skin condition, ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional before choosing a product.
What to look for in an aftercare cream
1. Gentle and moisturising
Choose something that keeps the skin comfortable without causing burning, itching, or redness.
2. Fragrance-free
Perfume is one of the most common reasons a product can irritate a fresh tattoo.
3. Free from harsh active ingredients
Avoid exfoliating acids, retinol, strong essential oils, alcohol-heavy products, and products made to brighten, peel, or deeply treat the skin.
4. Light enough for your skin
If your skin gets oily or clogged easily, choose a lighter texture and apply only a thin layer.
How should the cream be applied?
Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo. Apply a very small amount of cream and spread it thinly over the tattoo. The skin should feel lightly moisturised, not wet or greasy.
If the tattoo feels sticky, shiny, or covered, you have probably used too much. Gently reduce the amount next time.
Guide to a fast healing tattoo
Keep the tattoo clean, use only a thin layer of suitable cream, avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and direct sun while it heals, and follow the instructions you received at the studio.
Contact your tattoo artist if you are unsure about the healing process. If the tattoo becomes unusually painful, very swollen, hot, increasingly red, or starts producing unusual fluid, contact a healthcare professional.
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