Well, overtime as I’ve gotten more and more tattoos and have exponentially covered my body and gained more insight into the tattoo aftercare process and products I’ve steered away from designer/cool brands and looked into what is MOST EFFECTIVE for the BEST PRICE.

After all.. That’s what we want right? Something that works and doesn’t break the bank especially if you’re getting a lot of work done!

Like I always say, you want to listen to your artist, but if you’re on Google looking for the #1 Tattoo Aftercare product that’s essential for tattoo healing and you don’t trust what you were told I’m more than happy to provide you my thoughts on the topic.

The number one tattoo aftercare product for healing tattoos would have to be the antibacterial soap that you choose after getting your tattoo to clean your skin with. Many people overlook this detail and in turn put themselves into a risky position that could lead to infections, or worse.

Essential Tattoo Aftercare Products

When looking for a great tattoo soap you want to check and see to make sure it is unscented. If it is scented it could lead to irritation and more skin sensitivity derived from the chemicals used in making the product scented. That’s why I choose Dial Gold Antibacterial Soap. 

Benefits of Cleaning your Tattoo

Tattoo Healing and Cleaning is often overlooked and can lead to quite a few issues that you would encounter if not done properly which could include:

• Irritable Tattoo Scabbing (scabbing is normal)
• Low Color/Tattoo Quality
• Infections

The list goes on and keeping your work and skin clean should be a no brainer. But it’s essential to pick a strong and well suited antibacterial soap for cleaning your tattoo during the aftercare process.

A bonus recommended essential along with the soap for cleaning your tattoo would be bundling it with a great ointment to aid in skin recovery and tattoo protection. Some people believe in dry healing their tattoo and I have heard of people doing it successfully however with my tattoos I am an avid proponent of using the best tattoo ointments.

I have gone through a wide variety of tattoo healing ointments seeking one that works well for me. Currently, my go to ointment during the tattoo healing process has been A & D ointment  simply because it provides a thin layer of ointment over the skin which doesn’t suffocate my pores, it’s affordable and can be used on other skin issues, and it’s simply been the easiest and cleanest to use.

What should you do from here?

Well it’s obvious you were looking for answers, you need the essential tattoo aftercare products for the tattoo healing process and from my knowledge and experience you will be hard pressed to find more bang for your buck over Dial Antibacterial Soap and A&D Ointment.

Good luck and happy healing!

The post The #1 Tattoo Aftercare Product That’s Essential For Tattoo Healing appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

The things you will need may include:

• Anti-bacterial Soap
• Tattoo Ointment
• Tattoo Lotion

With those three aftercare products you will be able to clean your tattoo, keep it clean and ensure that you have a properly healed and high quality tattoo.

Aquaphor For Tattoos

Should you use aquaphor for tattoos and the healing process?

The answer to this is not as easy as a yes or no. The answer can be given on a case by case basis and really will depend on the person, the skin, and their tattoo. You will need to spend some time trying out the product that is right for you.

In this article I will outline the reasons people recommend for aquaphor as well as the reasons against it so that you can infer your own decisions based on the arguments.

Benefits Of Using Aquaphor For Tattoos

This type of heal ointment is great for chapped and dry skin. It’s primary usage is for that as well as healing ecsema and other forms of rashes. Many users generally will use it to seal little cuts or bruises to assist in the healing process. The seal aids in protecting against germs or anything else that may come into contact with the broken/affected skin.

Because of the thickness and greasiness of aquaphor, it’s best usage facilitates in creating a barrier between skin/affected area and bacteria/irritation which in theory would allow your tattoo to heal in a quick/undisturbed condition.

• Great for dry/chapped skin
• Creates barrier between skin and bacteria
• Effective for tattoos through proper application

Another perk to using Aquaphor is that you can get a lot of product for a very cheap price and once your tattoo is healed you will be able to use the product as time goes on for many other skin issues.

Drawbacks Of Using Aquaphor For Tattoos

The reason many people go back and forth with using aquaphor for tattoos is simply due to the thickness and greasiness of the substance. For some people, this does not disturb their tattoo healing process but for others it is almost too much and will suffocate the pores when there is too much on the skin.

I’ve used aquaphor to heal my tattoos in the past (along with many other products) and I noticed that I was developing small zit like bumps on the applied area which was essentially my body saying I was applying too much. Knowing what was going on to adjust this I:

1. Cleaned the area thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap.
2. Allowed the area to air dry.
3. Re-applied with a much thinner layer and smaller amount.

Wiping away over applied aquaphor on your tattoo sometimes will not work because it simply pushes it into the pores more and so I’ve found the outlined process above to be the best process for re-application.

I tried many more times to use aquaphor lowering the applied amount over and over again and I noticed these zit like bumps would form regardless.

Please keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different I have very sensitive skin that tends to break out based on diet, exercise, and substances put on the skin. 

I will reiterate once again that once again it will depend for the person. I do know people that do use aquaphor for tattoos successfully and their tattoos heal just fine. Meanwhile I had to go out into the market and test our various other forms of tattoo ointments.

If you want to try aquaphor I would definitely go ahead and pick some up to see if it works for you. The cool thing about these broad multi use products is that you can save money using Aquaphor because you will get alot of product at a great price and once your tattoo is healed you will be able to use the product for any kind of cut, rash, or other irritated skin issues.

If you’re interested in some alternatives that I have found to using aquaphor for tattoos and the healing process please check out some of my recommendations below:

Below you will see some of my alternative recommendations

A&D Ointment

When I first began having issues with aquaphor I went to my tattoo artist and asked what he would recommend I use for the tattoo ointment component of the tattoo healing process. He recommended applying A&D ointment in small applications to the skin to gauge effectiveness.

I took him up on the recommendation and have since found it to be a staple in my tattoo after products. It’s very simple to apply, comes at a great value, and can be used for other skin issues in a very similar fashion to aquaphor but without the thickness and greasiness.

Tattoo Goo – Aftercare Salve 

 

In Conclusion..

The post Aquaphor For Tattoos – Tattoo Aftercare Guide appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

Your on the hunt for tattoo ointment after asking yourself the question over and over, “what ointment is good for tattoos?”. It’s important to pick something that merges comfort, quality, and price into one. This way you don’t spend a fortune on a small tube of some ointment or give yourself a rash buying some bunk product from some sketchy dealer.

Essentially what you’re looking for when searching for tattoo ointment is something that will heal your tattoo while maintaining the color and getting it at an affordable price with ease.

The products listed below are what I use, have tested, and will continue to use for tattoo ointment on my tattoos both when I get them, as I’m going through the tattoo healing process and in all phases of tattoo aftercare.

1. A&D Ointment

This is the classic tattoo referral ointment from most people. I believe that once something has been tried and proven it’s difficult for people to switch from their bread and butter. The great thing about A&D ointment is that you can buy a lot of product at great price and if you’re getting quite a few tattoos you will have a long term supply with your initial purchase.

This works like many other ointments that you’ll be looking at as forming a protective barrier to help seal out bacteria, wetness, and anything else that may come into contact with your tattoo.

2. Hustle Butter

This is a higher end more designer brand tattoo ointment. Since I’m interested in everything out there on the market it’s something I picked up and tried out and honestly it was pretty impressive. It’s a tattoo ointment that works well in all phases of the tattoo process and can be applied during the tattoo process as well to keep the skin workable.

One of the things I really liked about this brand and company is their products are cruelty free and they advertise that they are 100% vegan. Now I’m not about to go on a rant of crossfit and veganism but it’s cool to see companies taking those steps to look out.

It is made from Shea, Mango, and Aloe butters, Coconut, Sunflower and Rice Bran oils, Rosemary Oleoresin, Green Tea, Vitamin E Complex and Mint Arvenis Essential Oil, as well as the essence of Papaya and Coconut.

3. Ora’s Tattoo Salve

*Organic Option*

There are those people out there that inspect labels and are meticulous about ingredients and organic products. This salve is for those as they have really hit on the need of providing a natural solution. This is a herbal blend that is slowly infused to make a superior herbal healing salve.

When you get it just apply a thin layer onto your new tattoo to assist it in the healing process, reduce itching, and prevent clogging pores or lost color.

What’s in the product? Grapeseed Oil Infused With Organic Calendula, Organic Comfrey, Organic Plantain, Organic Chickweed, Organic St. John’s Wort, Organic Burdock And Organic Thyme, Organic Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Vitamin E And Essential Oils Of Rosemary, Thuja, And Tea Tree. To avoid contamination, please wash hands thoroughly before each use, do not share salve, and keep lid closed tightly when not in use.

Final Words..

The post What Ointment Is Good For Tattoos? appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

Generally, this is when people tend to stop getting new tattoos so they can enjoy the tattoo without having to worry about the potential issues that might come up from sun exposure or spending time in the lake or pool.

But if you’re like me, no season is off limits and that is why we have to break down the 8 tattoo healing tips for summer to help you heal your tattoos without sacrificing quality.

1. Be conscious of the sun

This is no joke. If you’re living in a location with 100+ degree weather that is consistent throughout the week you want to be aware of whether or not the sun is making contact with any part of a new tattoo. Even 15 minutes in the sun can cause damage. So, before even stepping out into the sun ensure that you have covered the tattoo with a form of sunscreen or clothing (both can’t hurt).

2. Ensure Proper Footwear

Obviously we don’t always want to be wearing socks with heavy shoes especially when the sun is out and you’re heading out to spend time with the friends or family. It’s pretty common to switch into some flip-flops or sandals – but be self aware.

If you recently got a tattoo done on your foot or around your feet (which I wouldn’t recommend near summer) you will want to make sure that the type of footwear you choose is not constricting your tattoo and at the same time isn’t going to expose your feet to the sun too much.

My preferred choice of shoe is something light and athletic that go really well with some light socks.

3. Keep Your Tattoo Moisturized

It’s hard enough to keep your tattoo moisturized in normal weather, but being in a hot environment can cause your tattoo’s to dry out quite quickly. This is why I recommend keeping some form of miniature tattoo lotion with you so that you can carry it with you whether it is in your car, bag, or purse you want to ensure you are not caught without it.

4. Avoid Contact With Water

This is probably one of the hardest things for people to deal with and mitigate. Your friends are going to want to go swimming, boating, or spending time at the lake or river and that is all fine. You should definitely enjoy your summer but I would highly stress that you not expose your tattoo to any form of water exposure.

Here is what I do: I’ve had tattoos numerous summers in a row and I’ve always been able to participate (with caution) in water related activities. I am always just aware of my surroundings and I don’t expose whatever body part has been tattooed to the water.

5. Invest In Products That Will Protect Your Tattoo

I always find it funny that most people are willing to spend a large amount of money getting something that means a lot to them tattooed onto their skin and they skimp on their tattoo aftercare products. In fact, many tend to disregard the overall tattoo healing process in total.

It makes sense to me to invest in what you are putting on your tattoo so that your ink recovers quickly and with the highest quality possible. Generally, if I am going to be out in the sun I enjoy having access to Tattoo Goo’s sun stick (I apply it whenever I am out in the sun) that comes in their aftercare kit that is very effective for all stages of the tattoo healing process.

6. Bug Beware

Depending on where you live you will want to protect yourself from getting mosquito bites on your new tattoo. There are a few things you can do when it comes to making sure you don’t run into this issue.

1. Don’t be outside or in areas you know where mosquitos are (Obvious, but you’d be surprised)
2. Cover your tattoo with clothing and ensure mosquitos cannot get to it.
3. Utilize a bug spray whenever you are outside.

I can only provide what I have used before. I wouldn’t recommend applying bug spray directly to your tattoo but by having it on your body you shouldn’t have issues with mosquitos and your new tattoo.

7. Have a Back Up Plan

Most likely you or someone you know will end up not heeding advice given and you might find yourself with water damage, a bad sun burn, or bug bites on your new tattoo. I always recommend having a back up plan and contact phone numbers so you can handle the problem before it gets bad.

If you did in fact do something to your tattoo I would start at the source and speak with your tattoo artist and gather whatever advice they can provide you.

If their advice cannot or will not help the situation and you believe it may be infected or have further issues I would consult with your doctor or a medical professional. The advice on this blog is purely for education purposes and is not to be considered medical advice. I can only offer you opinions based on my own personal experiences.

8. Enjoy Yourself

Just because you have a new tattoo does not mean that you need to stop everything you want to do to allow your tattoo to heal and it doesn’t mean you need to continue looking for tattoo healing tips. If you haven’t already I would ensure that you have the proper after care products and you have briefed yourself with our complete guide to tattoo aftercare.

From there, you should be well equipped and aware of the issues that can come up. So stay prepared and be aware but don’t forget to have fun and enjoy your summer.

The post 8 Summer Tattoo Healing Tips You Might Not Know appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

As you all know, the whole purpose of Tattoo Healing Pro is to help you find your way with real human experience straight from me. I’ve spent quite a bit of time compiling congruent advice into a short, all encompassing, easy to read guide for those of you having questions in terms of tattoo aftercare.

This short guide is a simple outline with real time images, advice, thoughts, and tips to share with you as you heal your own tattoo. Starting the moment you leave the shop with your fresh new ink, you will be provided insight in a play by play format as the days go by.

Whether you’re:

• Cleaning your tattoo
• Applying a product
• Wearing clothes with a new tattoo
• Navigating sleep with a new tattoo
• Out in the sun or in the water

This guide is built to help and serve you on your path to healing your tattoos correctly. If you are new you will get alot of benefit because this was built to get you up to speed and on the right track.

Note: I am not a doctor or tattoo artist and this is not medical advice. Neither is this an acceptable alternative for the opinion of a physician. This is merely my experience of getting tattoos and going through the tattoo healing process explained for informational purposes only… By viewing this e-book you are agreeing to the Medical Disclaimer on TattooHealingPro.com.

The Definitive Guide to Flawless Tattoo Aftercare

The post FREE RESOURCE: The Definitive Guide to Flawless Tattoo Aftercare appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

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Every single person’s body is unique in their own way.

There are a multitude of options available to those of you that are really in pain and need some form of numbing cream to lessen the effect of getting a new tattoo. Before diving into this subject it is important to consult with your tattoo artist to ensure that it is okay to use the product you are going to buy before getting the tattoo.

The reason for this is that, you do not want to have any issues with the numbing cream negatively affecting the way your tattoo will set into your skin (blown out lines/color not sticking) during the tattoo healing process. I have heard of a few different stories where people applied a certain cream onto their tattoo without telling their artist and the whole tattoo was a mess because of a lack of communication between the artist and the client.

Top tattoo numbing cream recommendations

1. Dr. Numb Cream

This topical anesthetic has a 4/5 star review on Amazon and the reviews listed are not fake “discounted” reviews. They are real from people who have taken the product during a tattoo and have reviewed their feelings afterwords.

Pro Tip: On Amazon, many companies will discount their products and in return get positive reviews to build their review count for social proof. Check to see if the content of the review contains, “I received this product at a discount in exchange for an honest review”. That is how you know they have been in many cases the reviews are not entirely the truth.

The ingredients of Dr. Numb Cream include:

• Lidocaine 5%
• Prilocaine 5%
• Benzocaine 3%
• With a cream base

The time this product takes to work is generally 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the person. The effective lasting time is approximately 2-4 hours which is something to be conscious of because if you are still getting tattooed it will start to hurt quite a bit. When it comes to applying the product you will want to follow the instructions provided diligently.

For your reference they are:

1) Wash the area receiving the cream with soap and water. Dry area completely.

2) Apply a thick amount of numbing cream to the area and rub in thoroughly.

3) Place an additional, thin layer of cream over the area. Cover the cream with plastic wrap (saran wrap). The heat under the plastic wrap helps activate the cream. and keeps the cream form drying off.

4) Leave the plastic wrap on until it is removed by the professional before the procedure.

These instructions come directly from the Amazon product page that can be found here.

2. HUSH Anesthetic

HUSH Anesthetic is possibly the most well renowned tattoo numbing cream on the market, it boasts a 3.5/5 star rating with over 700 reviews on Amazon. The majority of the reviews that are bringing down that rating generally consist of the following issues:

• The time it takes to work (30 min – 2 hours)
• The time it lasts (30 min – 1 hour)
• The price ( it is consistent with other products in this market)
• It didnt work for them (everyone is different)

The thing with reviews is that everyone has created their expectations, wants, and needs in their head and they review products accordingly. Through analyzing this product it does seem effective, with that being said it might not work for you or meet your expectations.

The ingredients of Hush Anesthetic include the following:

4% Lidocaine, Purified Water, SD Alcohol 40B, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Glycerin, Menthol, Chamomile (Chamomilla Recutita) Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Leaf Extract, Comfrey (Symphytum Officinale) Root Extract, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Methylisothiazolinone

The instructions on using this product read as the following:

1) Before skin is broken, apply a thick layer of HUSH Gel in the area to be tattooed. Spread evenly throughout.

2) Reapply along the edges.

3) Wrap the area with plastic wrap and allow 1 hour for absorption.

4) Remove the plastic wrap and prep skin for procedure.

These instructions come directly from the Amazon product page that can be found here.

3. Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream

A middle of the road product that is effective and affordable is found in Number Master cream. This product runs a 3.5/5 star rating on Amazon with over 500 reviews on its product listing. The cool thing about this product is it comes in 3 varying sizes to met your needs depending on the size or quantity of tattoos you are getting to save money.

The ratings on this product are the same for most other reviews on other products and it comes down to the product not working for them. With that being said, everyone’s experience will be different.

The ingredients for Numb Master include:

Lidocaine 5%, Water, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethoxydiglycol, Lecithin, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/ Dicaprate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Trideceth-10, Cholesterol, Allantoin

• The general time this product works for is about 1-2 hours.
• It normally takes about 20-30 minutes to start working
• The price on this product is within range of other products in this market.

The instructions on using Numb Master cream read as the following:

1) When practical, cleanse the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly.

2) Gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before application of this product.

3) Apply up to 6 times a day as needed.

These instructions come directly from the Amazon product page that can be found here.

Through my observation and experience there are a few things you need to be aware of when it comes to numbing creams.

• Everyone will respond differently to different products.
• Certain products applied onto a tattoo can affect how the ink sets in your skin. Check with your artist prior to getting tattooed.
• Once the cream wears off, the tattoo process will hurt.
• Sometimes upon application of numbing creams the skin will burn. Keep an eye on this, you can read more about other’s experiences in the review section of Amazon.

How do you feel about numbing creams, have you ever used any and if so what was your experience?

The post What is the best numbing cream for tattoos? appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

There are three main categories for tattoo aftercare products:

Anti-bacterial Soap: When you are cleaning your tattoo you will need to use a non-scented anti bacterial soap to remove dirt and germs from the area that could potentially infect the area.

Tattoo Ointment: Once you have cleaned the area thoroughly you will use a thin layer of tattoo ointment to the tattoo for the first few days of the healing process.

Tattoo Lotion: After the first few days of using tattoo ointment you will switch to your preferred fragrance free tattoo lotion, this is the final product to use while your tattoo goes through the healing stages.

Before buying tattoo aftercare products ask yourself these questions

1. Are you more concerned with cost or value?
2. How big is your tattoo and will you be needing a lot of product?
3. Do you plan on getting more tattoos in the following weeks, months, or years?

Best Aftercare Products – Cost or Value?

When it comes to the tattoo healing products you apply onto your new ink, everyone will react differently as to what products to invest in at first based on the quality and cost of the product. You may choose to go the cheaper and more generic route and be entirely comfortable using those products or you may find that spending a few extra bucks on branded items leaves your tattoo looking better.

If you do intend on getting quite a few tattoos or tattoos that are large you might consider buying tattoo aftercare product in bulk to save not only on the product, but the shipping, stress, and healing that could be affected if you are not prepared. If you do intend on doing follow up sessions or getting more tattoos buying product in bulk is what I recommend because this prepares you for the worst and will allow a smooth tattoo healing process to begin to take place once you get your new ink!

Whichever route you choose to go, test and experiment with different products until you find what you like. I never take what I hear at face value, I trust but verify what others tell me and pull my own conclusions from that.

Below are my experiences with the products I have tried.

1. Anti bacterial Soap

Anti bacterial soap is the first product that will be used on your new tattoo as you remove the wrap that your artist applied. You will take your first step into cleaning the area that is covered in bodily fluids. The tattoo will most likely be oozing blood and plasma over the next couple of days so this product is especially important to use so you avoid opening yourself up to the possibility of an infection.

I have had a great experience in utilizing two products on the market, both which have great benefits and work well. Those products include:

1. Dial Gold Soap – Generic Brand
2. H2Ocean Foam Soap – Brand Name

Dial Gold Anti Bacterial Soap

The primary concern with using a soap on your tattoo is ensuring that it is anti bacterial as well as frangrance free. In the world we live in today, that limits our options and unfortunately, you cannot use your mothers lemon scented soap no matter how much you like it.

I have found Dial Gold Soap to be one of the best soaps for cleaning my tattoos in terms of cost, effectiveness, and value. The soap can be found on Amazon (here) at an affordable cost and can be purchased in bulk.  When it comes to a standard product that most shops, artists, and enthusiasts this is a reliable and consistent recommendation to abide by.

The Pro’s include:

• It’s anti-bacterial – You need to have soap that will deeply clean the newly tattooed area.
• Fragrance Free/Unscented – Any additives to your soap may cause irritation or burning. Check the labels!
• Affordable Cost – You can get a lot of soap that can be used on your tattoo for a great price. This soap isn’t tattoo specific so it can also be used as regular hand soap as well.

I really like this product because I can buy it in a large bottle and have it on hand for the long term to take care of my tattoos so I am never short on it.

The Con’s include:

• Dryness – This one really isn’t that big of a deal. But I do notice that after I use Dial Gold soap on my skin the area is a bit more dry. To fix that simply apply you’re preferred lotion.

H2Ocean Blue Green Foam Soap

This soap was designed to wash your tattoo without drying it out or excessively damaging the new tattoo. It is enriched with aloe vera which has many positive healing properties. Here are my thoughts..

The Pro’s include:

• Fragrance free – This is obviously a common trend, you don’t want to irritate your tattoos.
• Moisturize’s well – I noticed my skin and tattoo felt alot cleaner when using this product, I’m not sure if its the added aloe vera or ingredients that provide this effect.

The Con’s include:

• Size to price ratio – You really don’t get a lot of product for the price you are paying. I understand they added more ingredients to assist in the healing and cleaning of the tattoo. But for large pieces I would consider a more cost effective soap like the Dial Gold.

The thing I really like about this and I don’t know if it was just me or not, but I felt like my tattoos healed faster and with less issues when I used this paired with the lotion supplied by H2Ocean. I don’t want to conclusively state this so I will test it out on some more tattoos in the future and come back to update this.

Overall, when it comes to cleaning your tattoos it needs to be taken seriously and at the very least you want to ensure the product you are choosing is unscented and anti-bacterial. From there I would say it can come down to your own judgement and beliefs.

2. Tattoo Ointment

Once you have cleaned your tattoo thoroughly and dried the area appropriately, you will move into the second product that needs to be applied to the skin which is tattoo ointment. Tattoo ointment is applied to keep the area clean and allow the skin to heal while limiting the possibility of infections that can easily be contracted if the area is not kept clean.

Tattoo ointment is normally used the first 3-5 days after receiving the tattoo and generally you can switch over to using a lotion once the tattoo begins to peel. I have tried numerous tattoo ointments, simply because I am always curious to find something that might work better.

The three ointments I am most familiar with are the following:

1. Aquaphor – Generic Brand
2. H2Ocean Aquatat – Brand Name
3. A&D Ointment – Brand Name

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Aquaphor was the first product I ended up using based off of a recommendation from my first tattoo artist that I ended up moving on from. Certain people swear by Aquaphor, however for me I believe the product is far to thick for my skin/tattoos to benefit from it.

The Pro’s include:

• Cost – It is a very cheap ointment for the amount you get.
• Positive reviews – Other people have had a lot of success with Aquaphor and it is commonly recommended (social proof).
• Quick Alternative – Many people tend to not use ointment on their tattoos for very long, so Aquaphor tends to do the trick in terms of short term tattoo recovery.

The Con’s include:

• Too thick of a substance – When I applied the product onto my first chest tattoo I realized that it was a thicker substance than I expected (I may have used more than I should have because I was new to the tattoo healing process) and I ended up breaking out in small pimples/zits on the tattoo.

Note: This is something that happens when you are using too much product on the tattoo and/or the product is too thick of a substance to be used on your tattoo.

This is what caused me to discontinue the use of Aquaphor and begin pursuing other tattoo ointments that would work better with my skin.

H2Ocean Aquatat Ointment

I first got to try this product when I received my first order of the H2Ocean Aftercare Kit. I found this ointment very useful in that it seemed to heal my tattoos faster than normal. I am not sure if this is a combination of the total kit being used or if it was this ointment that was pulling it’s weight. But there is value in this ointment.

The Pro’s include:

• Speed of healing – I feel as though my tattoos healed better (quality) and faster.
• Simplicity – The kit and ointment were simple to understand and use.
• Portable – In today’s society we’re hardly ever in one location for very long, I can take this product and kit anywhere with me because it’s all very mobile. I’m mentioning this hear because I vividly remember taking all of the H2Ocean products to work with me and they fit into my six pack bag where I fit my meals.

The Con’s include:

• The price – The name brand tattoo healing products are pricier when it comes to fulfilling the tattoo healing process.
• The size – This is a pro and a con because often times we want alot of product so that we will never run out, but this is a smaller sized item.

A&D Ointment

A&D ointment is one of the products that is known across the industry for being extremely effective. It is used by the majority of people who are looking for a generic and effective tattoo healing ointment.

The beautiful thing about A&D ointment when it comes to tattoo aftercare is that it is not nearly a thick as the Aquaphor that many people tend to have issues with. In fact there are many pro’s when it comes to using A&D ointment on your tattoo.

The Pro’s include:

• Price vs. quantity – You can get alot of product for a relatively cheap price. This is something I use on bigger pieces simply because it is cost effective.
• The quality – The thickness of the A&D ointment is not nearly as comparable to Aquaphor. When used in moderation you can apply a small portion and rub it into the skin to apply an acceptable amount of ointment.

The Con’s include:

• Skin rash (with reason) – At times I would use a bit too much of the A&D ointment on a new tattoo and I would end up breaking out in small pimples where there was too much product. This is once again caused when the tattoo is suffocated by using too much product. This can easily be avoided by using a smaller amount of product and spreading a thin layer across the skin.

3. Tattoo Lotion

The final product under review is third in line to be used on your new tattoo. After about 2-7 days people tend to stop using ointment and swap it out for lotion. This allows the tattoo to peel and remain moisturized for the highest quality healing. There are a few tattoo lotions out there that are effective when it comes to the tattoo healing process, however just like tattoo ointment you want to ensure that it is unscented so as to not irritate the skin.

The three lotions that I role with include:

1. Lubriderm – Generic Brand
2. TattooGOO Lotion – Brand Name
3. H2Ocean Lotion Brand Name

Lubriderm

Lubriderm lotion is a staple product that is talked about widely in the tattoo industry. I believe this is because of the generic value that everyone can get out of it. It is unscented, extremely affordable, and effective to moisturize new tattoos.

The Pro’s include:

• Price – This is a widely recognized and generic product found not only in the tattoo industry but in the skin care industry.
• Unscented – You will definitely want unscented lotion to avoid any irritation. Lubriderm unscented lotion is really easy to find in many big name stores/websites.
• Value – You get a lot of product for the your buck when choosing Lubriderm which works well for people who will consistently be getting more tattoos.

The Con’s include:

• Lasting Value – The lotion doesn’t seem to last very long on the skin, the effects tend to wear off and so you may find yourself applying lotion over and over again during the course of your day.

Tattoo Goo Original Aftercare Lotion

The Tattoo Goo original aftercare lotion is a product that makes this review list simply because it’s effective and I wish it came in bigger sizes. I used Tattoo Goo products for a long time because I thought there was a lot of value provided in their aftercare kit, especially when it comes to sun care with their glue stick sunscreen for tattoos. Although branded products get a lot of hate in the industry there is a couple of things that I really like about Tattoo Goo lotion.

The Pro’s include:

• Unscented – As always you want to ensure you are applying unscented lotion onto your skin.
• Non-greasy – This is a problem found in a couple of products, they tend to make a mess everywhere after you because you are coming into contact and your lotion/ointment is smudging all over household objects.
• Makes colors pop – I want to continue to experiment with this, but I used this product alot on my first elbow rose tattoo and that tattoo to this day ( a year later) still has brighter details as opposed to other aspects of my sleeve.

As soon as I applied the lotion you can tell its taking an effect and it actually lasts for quite some time after you apply it onto your tattoo.

The Con’s include:

• The amount provided – The bottle size is the only con to this product. If you are wanting to have alot of product to use on your tattoos ensure that you order the appropriate amount or only use this on small pieces.

H2Ocean Ocean Care

It’s pretty easy to get drawn into the fancy labeling of certain brands and the positive reviews that come with it, when buying products to heal your tattoos. When it comes to marketing this is something companies in physical products take very seriously and I knew this when picking up the H2Ocean Aftercare Kit. The way the product is presented leaves the impression that it should work better than everything else and in my opinion it did seem to work surprisingly well.

The Pro’s include:

• Speed of healing – I feel as though my tattoos healed better (quality) and faster.
• Simplicity – The kit and products were simple to understand and use.
• Mindset/emotion – Mentally I felt better using these products.

The Con’s include:

• The price – Even though I think the quality is there. This was a deterrent.
• The size – There is not a lot of product provided in the units. This is something to consider when buying it, if you have a large product then it is probably a good idea to consider the amount of product you’ll need before ordering some.

In Closing…

When it comes down to it, there is a lot of product on the market and a lot of personal opinions being thrown into the conversation of tattoo aftercare. This is an article that has been forged through my own personal experiences and observations. With that being said, it does not represent the overarching truth, medical advice, or exactly what you should do. I simply remember being 18 years old and seeking out the “right” way to heal my first tattoo and I wish I had heard from someone the real experience and lessons from what’s being sold in the marketplace.

What do you use when you are healing your tattoos? Do you have a go to product or are you open to trying and testing out products that are on the market? What is the biggest thing you look for when it comes to choosing the products you will use on your tattoo?

Note: I am not a doctor and this article is not medical advice it is merely opinion. For the complete disclaimer please view the Medical Disclaimer.

The post The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to Saving Big Bucks with Tattoo Aftercare appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

Let’s dive right in!

1. Pay attention and listen to what your tattoo artist tells you. If you’ve done your research on who you’re getting your tattoo from and they provide you with a care sheet or advise you one what you need to do follow it. They’ve done this many times over and they will know what you need to do.

2. Don’t itch! When you itch or scratch at your tattoo you interrupt the healing process and can damage the tattoo for the long term. Generally, itching occurs once the tattoo has begun the peeling stage. During this time it is incredibly important to leave the scabbing/peeling skin alone. If you do end up picking or removing these skin fragments you risk pulling the color from your tattoo.

Wondering why tattoos tend to peel during the healing process?

3. Be prepared with the best tattoo aftercare products. Most of the time you hear about people winging their healing process. They know they should take it seriously but they either don’t have the right product, aren’t consistent in using it, and are generally irresponsible when it comes to providing quality care to their new tattoo. When you are prepared with the high quality products I’ve found that tattoos heal better and you’re even more motivated to use and apply them to get the most out of them!

One of the most efficient and effective tattoo care kits that I’ve used numerous times is the H2Ocean Aftercare Kit that provides an effective 3 step solution that you can apply to healing your tattoos.

4. Research your tattoo artist before getting your tattoo. Here is one of the biggest mistakes new tattoo enthusiast make. They don’t do thorough due diligence on who they’re getting their tattoo from to ensure that they not only get a great tattoo but it is done in a clean environment and healing instructions are given correctly. What might some forms of due diligence be?

• Utilizing social media to determine great artists (Research).
• Check out reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook.

Found with a simple Yelp search

• Review artist portfolios and follow up with their clients
• Choose an artist that tattoos with your specific style.

Their are plenty of other ways to vet out a tattoo artist. But the advice still stands, the best way to take care of a new tattoo starts before you get it.

5. Use a thin layer of ointment when you are going through the tattoo healing process. There were many times in the earliest stages of getting tattoos when I would envelope my tattoo in a sludge of ointment thinking that I was doing the right thing. Boy was I wrong with that one! You absolutely want to use the thinnest amount of ointment possible and rub it into the tattoo so as to not leave a thick layer of ointment covering the skin.

You will know when you are using too much because you are suffocating the skin and small pimples or a rash may begin to form. Don’t freak out if this happens, just understand that you need to clean the area carefully and monitor your ointment usage.

6. Try coconut oil! Throughout the tattoo healing process, an ointment will need to be used during the earlier stages. Many tattoo artists have spoken on the topic of using coconut oil as an ointment for its great moisturizing and healing capabilities.

7. Play hard but keep it clean. You can’t put your life on hold when you have a new tattoo. You have a body to take care of, friends that want to go out and do things, and sometimes adventure awaits and the outdoors are calling to you. It is completely fine to go out and do those things but you have to be aware that your tattoo is not healed and is subject to infection if it is not taken care of.

This is where the tattoo aftercare kits come into play, I don’t like carrying a bunch of stuff around when I am going to the gym or going camping, so I have a kit on hand in case I need to pack it for emergencies. They generally don’t take up that much space and it solves all your needs when it comes to tattoo aftercare.

8. Apparel and Shoe adjustments may need to be made. During the 1-4 weeks that your tattoo is healing you will need to ensure that you are not wearing tight clothing that may rub or constrict the tattoo on your skin.

A note on getting tattoos on your feet to best heal your tattoo. You will absolutely want to do everything you can to wear flip flops or go barefoot to allow the tattoo on your foot to heal. You may consider wrapping the tattoo in saran wrap to cover it and prevent irritation and from there put your sock and shoe on.

9. Use a high quality unscented lotion during the aftercare process. Once the tattoo has begun to peel and is on it’s way to its final stages of the healing process you will switch from utilizing a thin layer of tattoo ointment to a quality unscented lotion.

For a few recommendations on what has worked well for me in the past check out my article on the best lotions for tattoo aftercare. You will want to ensure you have a standard carrying size bottle of lotion so that you are able to bring it to work, school, and or any daily activity you may be doing to ensure that your tattoo does not dry out.

1o. Prepare for bed. When you get a fresh tattoo, it will weep bodily fluids the couple of days immediately after getting the tattoo. This is something you will want to be careful of when going to bed each night because your tattoo can stick to your bedsheets as you sleep. When you wake up it is easy to unconsciously pull the tattoo from the sheets, this is something you do not want to do.

Instead, prepare for sleep by:

• Laying a towel where your tattoo will be in bed so as to not get your sheets dirty
• Ensure that you clean the area thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
• From there apply a thin layer of ointment prior to going to bed, this should contain any bodily fluids that would have otherwise gotten all over the towel and sheets.

This is not an end all be all cure and it is likely that you will experience getting your sheets dirty from the blood and plasma that your body is producing to heal the tattoo. If you do happen to have your tattoo stick to the sheets/towel, take it to the bathroom without pulling and run luke warm water over the area until the sheet/towel loosens and falls away.

Use these 10 pointers to enhance and improve the way you get and heal your tattoo and let us know how you do!

Know something that can benefit the THP community? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 10 Of The Best Ways To Take Care Of a Tattoo appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

There’s no doubt about it, tattoos and the military have a deep history that is only going to continue to develop.

The post Tattoos In The Military appeared first on Tattoo Healing Pro.

Do All Tattoos Peel?

When I got my first tattoo it was on my chest and it was a mixture of red, black, and grey. In fact, I liked the skin tear look and I got my birth countries flag imprinted underneath my skin to appear as though it had been torn.

I really didn’t know what to expect after getting my tattoo, I was ill-informed and ill-prepared for the act and in the midst of doing my tattoo aftercare my tattoo began to peel and I had no idea if this was normal or not! (Give me a break, I was 18 and new)

At the time I was taking an EMT basic course because I intended on pursuing a career as a paramedic, I remember sheepishly approaching an older guy who was covered in tattoos and asking him if the peeling that was going on on my chest was normal.

He didn’t blink an eye when he told me it was completely normal and that it was important to keep the area moisturized with a good unscented tattoo lotion.

He was right, it was completely normal and my tattoo did end up healing quite well for my first time and that was because I took the tattoo healing process seriously. But I always did wonder, do all tattoos peel?

And the answer was yes all tattoos do peel, some heal more drastically than others (when it comes to scabbing/flaking) but the biology behind the tattoo healing process is where a better understanding can come from. Here is a brief overview of what happens

• After getting a tattoo your body is leaking blood and plasma due to the needle piercing your skin many times over.
• Swelling will occur as your body responds to the trauma incurred as the tattoo was applied.
• Your body forms a mesh of platelets to prevent loss of bodily fluids from the tattoo being applied.
• For about a week or two the body will repair the skin that was tattooed.
• After about a week or two you will notice your tattoo beginning to peel and flake
  • Do Not – Pick, Itch, Scratch, or Bite the area as the tattoo is flaking/peeling.
• Once the tattoo has healed the scabs and flakes of skin will fall away revealing the healed finished product.

I think the biggest thing that this comes down to is understanding that you must take care of the peeling area by not touching it or interfering with how your body is healing the tattoo. Once again, when you do pick or itch at the area you put yourself at risk for damaging your new tattoo.

A personal observation – I have noticed when getting my tattoos is that the colored tattoos tend to go through a longer and more intense peeling stage than the black and gray tattoos.

Have you noticed anything similar? If so comment below and let me know what you think!

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