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6 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products UK 2024

You took your time deciding on the perfect design, sat through the gruelling event itself, and now you have a shiny new tattoo to show for it. But the process doesn’t stop there – after all, your skin has been wounded so it needs to be tended to appropriately. Luckily, the world of tattoo aftercare has blown up in recent years, with all manner of balms, ointments, lotions and soaps all dedicated to healing, moisturising and preserving your beautiful body art.

With so many to choose from, and many of us wanting natural, vegan, or sensitive skin options, the quest to find the products that do as they say on the tin can be an arduous one to say the least. We’re here to help with our buying guide, designed to find the most suitable aftercare for your needs, as well as revealing our top online picks from eBay and Amazon so you can get to showing off your (healthy) new ink with pride.
Last updated 27/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Tattoo Aftercare Products in the UK – Buying Guide

First up, we’ll be introducing the varieties of aftercare that have been designed specifically for sensitive post-tattoo skin, and their uses. You may have some additional preferences of what you do and don’t want to slather on your body, so we’ll also analyse the common formulations to find the right product for your needs.
1

Understand the Types of Aftercare Products so You Can Choose Which You Need

Different stages of the healing process require different types of care, as the tattoo itself goes from a fresh wound prone to infection to a frustratingly itchy scab, all whilst needing extra hydration to repair itself and look it’s best. Here’s the lowdown on what each type of aftercare product does and when to use it. Choose as many as you think you’ll need!

Balms and Salves: Used for the Initial Healing Process

Balms and Salves: Used for the Initial Healing Process
Brands use these words interchangeably, but they are basically the same thing: a waxy ointment that is rubbed over the tattooed skin to protect you from germs, add nutrients and moisture to aid in the healing process, soothe itching, and ensure your ink stays bold and sharp.


It is recommended that you use these ointments for the first 3-5 days of getting your tat, when the skin is at it’s most vulnerable and prone to infection. Some balms can be used as a multipurpose item for other skin issues such as cuts and scratches, chapped lips, or cracked heels, which is particularly handy if you only have a small tattoo and end up with most of the pot left over!


Balms and salves usually appear in small sized pots of around 30 ml, due to the fact you need only use a very thin layer at a time, but those with larger ink may need to grab a container of 50 ml and above. Because of their shine-inducing oil and wax based ingredients, they can also be used as a tattoo brightener later down the line.

Tattoo Soaps: Antibacterial and Non-Scented Cleaners Used for the First Few Weeks

Tattoo Soaps: Antibacterial and Non-Scented Cleaners Used for the First Few Weeks
Specialist tattoo soaps or cleansers are formulated with newly inked skin (in other words a wound) in mind, which is to say they are antibacterial, non-scented, and free from any irritating ingredients. They will rid the skin of excess oil, bacteria and sweat, in order to keep it healthy and free from infection.


They can seem like a splurge if you know there are regular fragrance-free soaps available, but do check with your tattooist to see which are suitable. However, if you’re not completely sure and would prefer not to take the risk, these specially designed cleansers are a good option. You’ll need to wash or shower with one for the first 2-3 weeks, so it’s up to you.

Lotions: To Moisturise the Skin After Days 3-5

Lotions: To Moisturise the Skin After Days 3-5
Whilst there are plenty of normal moisturisers out there, buying a tattoo-specific lotion is another way to ensure you’re giving your skin the best love and care, without having to look up every ingredient to make sure it’s safe and won’t aggravate you. Lotions will hydrate the skin, stop it from cracking, and soothe it as the tattoo starts to scab over. You can also find sun creams designed for use on inked skin.


They are really intended to moisturise rather than heal, so you should switch to a lotion after the 3-5 day period of using a balm or salve, when the skin becomes hard and dry and starts to peel. They should be free of fragrances or perfumes, especially if you are prone to skin allergies or reactions to cosmetics.


As with balms, lotions can double up as a tattoo reviver when your skin is fully recovered, or for older ink you have that suddenly doesn’t look as impressive next to your latest piece!

Tattoo Oils: For Looking Fresh After You’re Fully Healed

Tattoo Oils: For Looking Fresh After You’re Fully Healed
Typically quite a simple blend of a few plant oils, tattoo oils are much less essential to the medical side of aftercare and more for improved appearance, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t earn a spot in your routine.


Being oil-based, they will still moisturise the area, and will play their part in the healing process if they include the right vitamin-rich oils. But their main skill is enhancing the saturation and brightness of your tattoo, and will especially appeal to those with colourful or heavily shaded ink as it will really make it come to life.


To get a bit more bang for your buck, you can also look for oils that are suitable for your other beauty and grooming needs, such as smoothing and softening your split ends or facial hair.

2

Go for Natural Based Products if You’re Vegan or Have Sensitive Skin

Go for Natural Based Products if You’re Vegan or Have Sensitive Skin
They’re more likely to be hypoallergenic, and free from irritating ingredients or perfumes that we know aren’t the best when you’ve just been under the needle. If you’re concerned about parabens, silicones and other potential agitators, simply opt for products that are free from them.


And finally, those looking for vegan or cruelty-free aftercare will find natural products to be their best bet, although it’s worth checking the brand’s information as ingredients like beeswax and lanolin pop up a lot in balms and salves.

3

The Best Aftercare Includes Skin-Friendly Vitamins

The Best Aftercare Includes Skin-Friendly Vitamins
The most savvy vitamins for skin healing on all counts are A, C and E. They are commonly found in many types of skincare as they're full of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.


Choosing aftercare products with these vitamins not only assists the skin in its recovery, but can ward off infection and scarring and protect the skin cells from environmental damage. Sounds good to us!


They can be found in many an ingredient, most notably jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, orange and aloe vera in aftercare, but if you’re not a botanical expert just look out for mention of them in the product description.

4

Make Sure Products Are Petroleum Free or Healing Will Be Slowed

Make Sure Products Are Petroleum Free or Healing Will Be Slowed
Ask any respectable tattooist and they’ll tell you to put down the Vaseline, or any other products containing petroleum, and for good reason. Petroleum is not only an irritant, but it’s non-porous, meaning it forms a barrier that blocks air and water from getting in

That’s why it’s so effective at stopping your lips getting chapped, but it’s a different matter when it comes to your ink.


On a vulnerable new tattoo, or any cut for that matter, this means that oxygen cannot get in either, which is a vital part in the healing and rebuilding process. We’d therefore advise looking for aftercare free of petroleum for a safe and speedy recovery.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

6 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products in the UK

Now you know the ins and outs of caring for your ink, it’s time to share our product recommendations, based on quality, ingredients and value. We’ve included options for all the main varieties for cleansing, hydrating and maintaining, so you’re sure to find one or two to suit your needs.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Hustle Butter

1. Hustle Butter Deluxe

Hustle Butter  1. Hustle Butter Deluxe 1

£18.00

High Mid

For Every Stage of the Inking Process

2

After Inked

2. After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2 Pack2 pack

After Inked  2. After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2 Pack 1

£29.99

High

Artist Approved Multi-Use Lotion

3

The Beard and the Wonderful

6. The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm

The Beard and the Wonderful  6. The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm 1

£4.48

Low Mid

Totally Natural Handmade Healing Balm

4

Woody’s

8. Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil

Woody’s  8. Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil 1

£5.99

Low Mid

A Nourishing Blend of Healing Oils

5

TattooMed

9. TattooMed Cleansing Gel

TattooMed  9. TattooMed Cleansing Gel 1

£8.98

Mid

Very Gentle Vegan Soap

6

Nourish Ink

10. Nourish Ink Tattoo Aftercare Balm

Nourish Ink  10. Nourish Ink Tattoo Aftercare Balm 1

£11.99

Mid

Soothing Moisturiser Rated by Professionals

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Hustle Butter 1. Hustle Butter Deluxe

1. Hustle Butter Deluxe 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.00
High Mid
Reference price
£18.00
High Mid

For Every Stage of the Inking Process

Not only does it have a rather cool name, but this wonder balm can be used before, during and after the tattooing process to help colours stick and the skin stay supple. Of course, it’s an incredibly healing and restorative product for aftercare too, and has a plethora of beneficial oils, butters and vitamins including papaya, green tea, shea, aloe and coconut.

It’s pretty famous all over the world in both professional circles and among tattoo enthusiasts, and we can completely understand why. The brand and product are also certified cruelty-free and vegan, with no parabens or nasties, making it a perfect choice for everybody.
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No.2

After Inked 2. After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2 Pack2 pack

2. After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2 Pack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.99
High
Reference price
£29.99
High

Artist Approved Multi-Use Lotion

Free from parabens, petroleum and fragrances and completely cruelty-free, it's no wonder this fabulous salve is endorsed by professionals. It’s hypoallergenic too, and handy to have around for other cuts, piercings, or chapping.

This lotion contains a blend of jojoba, grapeseed, shea butter and orange oil, so it’s incredibly soothing and nourishing and has a beautiful scent suitable for all skin types. They’ve even replaced the beeswax with a synthetic version so vegans can reap the rewards of this amazing product, too!
No.3

The Beard and the Wonderful 6. The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm

6. The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£4.48
Low Mid
Reference price
£4.48
Low Mid

Totally Natural Handmade Healing Balm

Containing only natural plant-based ingredients including antiseptic tea tree and eucalyptus, protective beeswax and hemp and nourishing jojoba, this balm is a total bargain. It will reduce swelling and redness, and lend a helping hand to your skin’s healing process in the first few days of getting tattooed.

It’s quite firm so will need warming before application, perhaps in your pocket as it’s a very portable size. It can also be used on other cuts and scrapes that are on the mend.
No.4

Woody’s 8. Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil

8. Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£5.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£5.99
Low Mid

A Nourishing Blend of Healing Oils

Whether you’ve got a fresh tat or a slightly older collection, this effective blend of oils will make them pop. It contains moringa, an African superfood tree known for it’s powerful skin and scar healing properties, as well as argan oil (rich in vitamin E) and macadamia oil.

Got a bushy beard to offset your ink? It’s perfect for taming and conditioning that too. There’s a possibility it could agitate very sensitive skins, but it’s a fair enough price to try out first.
No.5

TattooMed 9. TattooMed Cleansing Gel

9. TattooMed Cleansing Gel 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.98
Mid
Reference price
£8.98
Mid

Very Gentle Vegan Soap

If you have very sensitive skin, or just like the idea of a delicate, pH balanced wash for your ink, this cleansing wash would be a great pick. It’s gentle, moisturising, and will help prevent the skin from drying out when used alongside a lotion or balm.

It’s also completely vegan and certified cruelty-free, although not natural ingredient based. There is added panthenol though, also known as provitamin B5, which is a skin healer and regenerator. The brand also offers lotions, sun creams, and other gentle aftercare.
No.6

Nourish Ink 10. Nourish Ink Tattoo Aftercare Balm

10. Nourish Ink Tattoo Aftercare Balm 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.99
Mid
Reference price
£11.99
Mid

Soothing Moisturiser Rated by Professionals

More of a cream or lotion than a balm, this product is UK made, has natural active ingredients, and is rated by professional tattoo artists. It does contain some silicones and other unpronounceable non-natural additions, but is recommended for sensitive skin as it is so incredibly soothing – probably due to the main ingredient being aloe vera.

It has the consistency of a thick emollient cream, and would be best after the first few days of getting your tat. It also has a lovely orange scent, and although quite pricey the size is large enough and need only be used sparingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tattoo Aftercare Important?

Very much so! Tattooing leaves your skin open to attack from external environmental stressors which could lead to infection or scarring. Caring for your tattoo is also an investment into its longevity. So if you want it to always look its best, treat it as you would any other part of your body.

How Long Should You Continue Tattoo Aftercare?

The healing time of your tattoo will vary, but it could be anywhere from a few weeks to half a year. Of course, the larger and more detailed your tattoo, the longer it will take to truly heal. Consult with your tattooist afterwards for a rough estimate.

How Often Should You Apply Tattoo Aftercare?

The process begins as soon as you take off the bandage. Your skin needs to be hydrated and kept away from harm such as the sun or chlorine in swimming pools. Applying aftercare should be done often with morning and evening good times to do larger applications and lunchtime for a small buffer.

Keep Skin Soft and Supple With Balms, Oils and Lotions

Keep Skin Soft and Supple With Balms, Oils and Lotions

Dry skin happens to the best of us, so it's good to keep on top of things with a good moisture-locking product. We all have our preferences; whether it's a balm, oil or lotion, each offers different textures and levels of moisture. And not forgetting the guys out there who want something extra to soothe a freshly-shaved face. Take a look at our top picks for balms, body oils and lotions to get that baby soft skin! 

Summary

In conclusion, the best tattoo aftercare for each individual can vary slightly depending on their personal and ethical preferences, but all in all it pays to look for a vitamin rich, mostly natural product that will do your skin and your tattoo a world of good. Hopefully you’ve found our article helpful!


Author: Natasha Dziubajlo

Top 5 Tattoo Aftercare Products

No. 1: Hustle Butter 1. Hustle Butter Deluxe

No. 2: After Inked 2. After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2 Pack2 pack

No. 3: The Beard and the Wonderful 6. The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm

No. 4: Woody’s 8. Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil

No. 5: TattooMed 9. TattooMed Cleansing Gel

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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