The Best Ointments to Use on Tattoos

Introduction

After getting a new tattoo, one of the most important things you can do for your skin is to care for it properly. Using the right ointment supports healing, keeps the area hydrated, and protects your new artwork from damage or infection. A tattoo is essentially an open wound for the first few days, and choosing the wrong product can lead to irritation, scabbing, or even colour loss. The right ointment helps form a gentle barrier that keeps out bacteria while still allowing your skin to breathe and recover naturally.

Understanding Why Ointment Matters

When a tattoo is freshly done, the skin is inflamed and sensitive. It will often feel sore, warm, or tight as the body begins to heal. Ointment helps manage these symptoms by sealing in moisture and reducing friction between the tattooed area and your clothes. It also prevents the skin from drying out and cracking, which can lead to scabs that pull out ink. Healing skin requires balance. If it dries out too much, it can flake excessively, but if it is kept too moist, it can soften and slow down recovery. The right ointment helps strike that balance by protecting the tattoo while allowing oxygen to circulate.

What Makes a Good Tattoo Ointment

A good tattoo ointment is gentle, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. Products made specifically for tattoos are often the safest choice because they are formulated to help inked skin heal properly. Ingredients such as panthenol, aloe vera, and vitamin E are beneficial because they soothe irritation, restore hydration, and promote cell regeneration. The texture of the ointment also matters. It should be smooth enough to spread easily and light enough to absorb without leaving the skin greasy.

Breathability is essential. Heavy or waxy ointments can trap sweat and bacteria, creating a barrier that prevents healing. Look for products that provide protection without sealing the skin completely. Many tattoo artists recommend switching from a slightly thicker ointment in the first few days to a lighter cream once the peeling stage begins. This gradual change mirrors how the skin naturally heals and adapts.

Ingredients to Avoid

Some ingredients found in regular skincare products can be too harsh for new tattoos. Alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and dyes should always be avoided because they can cause burning and irritation. Petroleum jelly, while once commonly used, can create an airtight layer that suffocates the tattoo and prolongs healing. Similarly, ointments containing strong antiseptics, acids, or essential oils should never be applied to a healing tattoo. Even natural products can cause allergic reactions in sensitive skin, so reading the label carefully is important.

How to Apply Tattoo Ointment Properly

Proper application is just as important as the product itself. Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Clean the tattoo gently to remove any excess plasma, dried ink, or surface debris, then pat it dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry for a few minutes. Apply a very thin layer of ointment to the tattooed area. The skin should appear slightly moisturised but not glossy or shiny. Too much ointment can prevent the skin from breathing and slow the healing process.

Most people find that applying ointment two or three times a day during the early stages is enough. As the tattoo begins to peel, you can reduce this to once or twice a day. If the skin feels tight, itchy, or flaky, that is your signal to reapply. If it feels sticky or looks overly wet, you have likely used too much. The key is to maintain a light and even level of moisture that supports the healing process without overloading the skin.

Trusted Tattoo Ointments in the UK

Many tattoo artists across the UK recommend Bepanthen Tattoo Intense Care Ointment. It is widely used for new tattoos because it contains panthenol, which promotes healing while protecting against irritation. Its light texture allows the skin to breathe and prevents scabbing, making it a reliable option during the first few days after getting inked.

Another popular choice is Hustle Butter Deluxe. Made with natural ingredients like shea and mango butter, it provides rich moisture without being overly heavy. It is also vegan and cruelty-free, appealing to those looking for a more natural product. Tattoo artists often use Hustle Butter during sessions to reduce redness and make the process smoother. It is equally effective for aftercare once the tattoo is complete.

Stories & Ink Aftercare Cream is another well-loved product, particularly for those who prefer something light and non-greasy. It absorbs quickly into the skin, reduces itching, and keeps the tattoo hydrated throughout healing. It is suitable for all skin types and designed specifically for tattoo aftercare.

Tattoo Goo is another trusted brand that offers a balm rich in vitamins and natural oils to aid skin recovery. Its thick texture provides excellent protection in the first few days when the skin is most vulnerable. It also contains ingredients that help reduce inflammation and support long-term skin health.

For those with dry or sensitive skin, Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm is also recommended by many artists. It provides a breathable protective layer that helps the skin retain moisture without becoming greasy. It is ideal for people who prefer a fragrance-free and clinically tested formula.

When to Start and Stop Using Ointment

Most artists suggest starting to use ointment after removing the initial protective film or dressing from the tattoo, usually within the first few hours. Apply your first thin layer after washing and drying the area gently. Continue for the next few days, keeping the tattoo hydrated but not wet.

Once the peeling stage begins, which usually happens within five to seven days, you can switch to a lighter moisturising cream. This is because the outer layer of skin begins to shed naturally, revealing new, delicate skin underneath. Using a thick ointment at this stage can feel heavy and unnecessary. A lighter lotion or cream will keep the tattoo soft and supple without clogging pores.

You can stop using ointment completely once the tattoo has fully healed, which is usually after two to four weeks. However, it is a good idea to keep moisturising your tattoo long term, especially during colder months when skin tends to dry out more easily. Regular moisturising helps preserve colour and clarity for years.

Signs You Might Be Using the Wrong Ointment

If your tattoo becomes unusually red, swollen, or itchy, you might be reacting to your ointment. While mild irritation is normal, persistent discomfort or rashes may indicate sensitivity to an ingredient. Stop using the product immediately and switch to something simpler, such as a fragrance-free healing balm. If the reaction worsens, contact your tattoo artist or a GP for advice.

Another sign that something is wrong is when the tattoo appears overly wet or develops tiny white bumps. This is usually caused by using too much ointment or a product that is too thick for your skin. Reducing the amount and letting the tattoo breathe for a few hours usually helps.

Ointments for Long Tattoo Sessions

After long or multiple tattoo sessions, your skin can feel especially sore and tired. Using a soothing ointment can make a huge difference. Ointments like Hustle Butter and Bepanthen can be applied immediately after your session to calm the skin and prevent excessive dryness. Keeping the area hydrated in the following days helps reduce inflammation and encourages faster healing. If your tattoo covers a large part of the body, it may also help to stay hydrated, rest properly, and eat nutrient-rich foods to support the healing process internally as well as externally.

Natural and Vegan Ointment Options

For those who prefer plant-based skincare, several vegan tattoo ointments perform just as well as traditional ones. Hustle Butter Deluxe and Stories & Ink are both excellent vegan choices. They rely on ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera to nourish the skin naturally. These ointments provide the same benefits as conventional products without synthetic additives, making them suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

Coconut oil itself can be used on healed tattoos, but it is not ideal for the first few days, as it can clog pores if applied too thickly. Once your tattoo is past the initial healing phase, natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil can help maintain softness and prevent dryness.

Tattoo Artist Recommendations

Tattoo artists in East Grinstead and throughout the UK often remind clients that ointment is just one part of a larger aftercare routine. Cleaning, rest, and patience are just as important. Most recommend using a thin layer of a trusted ointment three times a day for the first few days, then gradually reducing as the skin improves. They also stress avoiding anything that can irritate the area, such as tight clothing, direct sunlight, or heavy workouts during the first week.

Artists also advise against experimenting with homemade remedies or untested balms. Professional products are tested for safety, ensuring that they do not interfere with pigment or slow down the healing process. When in doubt, always follow your artist’s guidance rather than relying on online trends or general skincare products.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ointment for your tattoo plays a major role in how well it heals and how vibrant it looks in the long term. Look for gentle, fragrance-free ointments that support healing without blocking airflow. Products like Bepanthen, Hustle Butter, Stories & Ink, Tattoo Goo, and Eucerin Aquaphor are widely trusted across the UK tattoo community for their safe, soothing, and effective formulas. Apply the ointment sparingly, keep the area clean, and listen to your body’s signals. With proper care and patience, your tattoo will heal beautifully and remain a lasting piece of art that you can be proud to wear for years to come.