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6 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products UK 2022
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.
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: 04-04-2022
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
Go for Natural Based Products if You’re Vegan or Have Sensitive Skin
There are equally as many natural-based aftercare products on the market as there are non-natural, so you’ll have plenty to choose from whichever way you normally lean. However, it’s worth knowing the benefits of natural-based tattoo care, even if it’s not something you’ve thought about before.
Firstly, natural products are known to be much more gentle for sensitive skin, or for those who have had reactions to chemical-heavy lotions before. By default, they will also be rich in plant extracts and essential oils that nourish the skin both on the surface and beneath it.
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.
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.
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.
The 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.
6
Nourish Ink Tattoo Aftercare Balm
£11.99
| Type of Aftercare | Lotion |
|---|---|
| Volume | 100 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | Yes |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Neither |
| Vitamins | A, C, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
5
TattooMed Cleansing Gel
£8.98
| Type of Aftercare | Soap |
|---|---|
| Volume | 100 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | No |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Both |
| Vitamins | B5 |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
4
Woody’s Beard and Tattoo Oil
£5.99
| Type of Aftercare | Oil |
|---|---|
| Volume | 30 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | No |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Cruelty-free |
| Vitamins | A, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
3
The Beard and the Wonderful Tattoo Aftercare Balm
£4.48
| Type of Aftercare | Balm |
|---|---|
| Volume | 15 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | Yes |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Cruelty-free |
| Vitamins | A, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
2
After Inked Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion
2 pack
£29.99
| Type of Aftercare | Balm |
|---|---|
| Volume | 90 ml x 2 |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | Yes |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Both |
| Vitamins | A, C, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
1
Hustle Butter Deluxe Vegan Tattoo Cream (2x)
£18.00
| Type of Aftercare | Balm |
|---|---|
| Volume | 30 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | Yes |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Both |
| Vitamins | A, C, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes |
Compare the Best Tattoo Aftercare Products
| Image | 1  Hustle Butter | 2  After Inked | 3  The Beard and the Wonderful | 4  Woody’s | 5  TattooMed | 6  Nourish Ink |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Deluxe Vegan Tattoo Cream (2x) | Vegan Tattoo Aftercare Lotion | Tattoo Aftercare Balm | Beard and Tattoo Oil | Cleansing Gel | Tattoo Aftercare Balm |
| Features | For Every Stage of the Inking Process | Artist Approved Multi-Use Lotion | Totally Natural Handmade Healing Balm | A Nourishing Blend of Healing Oils | Very Gentle Vegan Soap | Soothing Moisturiser Rated by Professionals |
| Price | £18.00 | £29.99 | £4.48 | £5.99 | £8.98 | £11.99 |
| Type of Aftercare | Balm | Balm | Balm | Oil | Soap | Lotion |
| Volume | 30 ml | 90 ml x 2 | 15 ml | 30 ml | 100 ml | 100 ml |
| Natural-Based Ingredients | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Vegan/Cruelty-Free | Both | Both | Cruelty-free | Cruelty-free | Both | Neither |
| Vitamins | A, C, E | A, C, E | A, E | A, E | B5 | A, C, E |
| Petroleum-Free | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Link |
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
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
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