These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. In the following paragraphs, well take a close look at Vaseline as a product and the effects it has on tattooed skin. Please ask your artist or doctor if you have any questions about caring for your tattoo. Can you do that? A&D ointment ($14)mostly prescribed for diaper rashtops the list of recommended tattoo aftercare topicals. Its best to avoid using Vaseline on a new tattoo altogether [3]. You may be able to use Vaseline on old tattoos if your skin is dry. Considering laser tattoo removal? What We Don't Like. It can help them heal and look their best. So, you just got a new tattoo, and you just cant wait to show it off? Vaseline is safe to use on tattoos as it is non-toxic and hypoallergenic. A&D Ointment For Tattoos: How Well Does It Work? Vaseline is not recommended for use on new tattoos, as it can trap bacteria and irritate the skin. Since tattoos are permanent, having an extra layer of protection is beneficial for both the artist and their customers. When you get a tattoo, your skin is punctured thousands of times per minute. How to Stop Peeling Skin If Youre Shedding Like a Snake. It is also used in many cosmetic products, such as lotions and creams. It can also be used to protect and moisturize tattoos. 1. You are at the right place! These germs and bacteria are extremely dangerous to a new tattoo as any new skin wound is extremely vulnerable to potential infections, which can cause lasting damage to your tattoo if not treated fast enough. Your tattoo artist will likely recommend a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to keep the area moist and help your tattoo heal. This affiliate program is designed to ensure the sites earn advertising revenues by advertising and linking to Amazon and other program sites. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. But while the results perfectly arched and defined brows that last for up to three years . What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Too Much Honey, 7 Reasons Not to Drink Too Much Green Tea, Best Shoulder Exercises Without Equipment You Can Do Anywhere, 5 Best Similar Pillowtalk Lip Liner Products, 5 Best Similar Kilian Love DonT Be Shy Products. Method 1 Well, it means that your skin is damaged, irritated and that the tattoo hasnt settled yet in your skin. Can You Get a Tattoo Touched Up After 2 Weeks? They help keep your tattoo clean and free of infection while also keeping it moisturized so that it heals properly. Because Vaseline is 100% petroleum, and it clogs your pores, which inhibits the natural he For starters, its important to understand that Vaseline is a petroleum-based product. Generally, its best to avoid putting Vaseline on a new tattoo until it has healed. They will likely have a better suggestion for an aftercare product that wont interfere with the healing process. You can use a bandage or wrap the tattoo in plastic wrap. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. So, what we recommend is you keep your hands away from the tattoo for the first 24 to 48 hours. This also applies to other petroleum-based products, even if theyre intended for tattoo aftercare use. Microblading is a process of pigmenting or tattooing the brows in which colored ink is penetrated near or inside the eyebrows. If youre not comfortable taking the risk, ask if they can recommend a water-based product. 3 What if I accidentally scratched my tattoo? This means that it can cause your tattoo to heal more slowly. Its also important to note that while Vaseline can be used during the healing process, once the tattoo has healed you should switch to a water-based moisturizer to prevent ink fading. Leaving a tattoo uncovered can lead to infection and slow healing. Dr. Zeichner notes that while Vaseline is safe to use on tattoos, its important to make sure youre not allergic to it first. To do this, he recommends doing a patch test on a small area of skin before slathering it all over your tattoo. If you put lotion on a fresh tattoo, it can trap bacteria under the skin and cause an infection. Since 1872, petroleum jelly has been widely used to treat inflamed skin and has since been recognized as a revolutionary innovation that has subsequently been branded Vaseline [1]. While petroleum-based products such as Vaseline are things that many people would generally associate with being good at protecting and healing wounds, they can actually be counterproductive when used on a new tattoo. How Long Should A Tattoo Normally Take To Heal? What if Im Already Using Vaseline on My New Tattoo? Required fields are marked *, Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. Another option for a tattoo ointment is a product called H2Ocean. Just as you have to keep your own. If youre wondering if Vaseline is good for old tattoos, the answer is yes! Vaseline is an extremely powerful moisturiser. Without generous amounts of fresh air due to the thick jelly, the tattoo will generally take much longer to heal. No, your tattoo will not dry out overnight. You can put a thin layer of Vaseline on your tattoo before bed to help keep it moisturized. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away any excess. Finally, Vaseline can also help to soothe the skin around tattoos. Tattoo aftercare A and Dlanolin and petrolatum ointment. Your tattoo artist may put a small amount of aftercare ointment on, but youll need to take off your bandage to let the wound breathe. A&D contains both Vitamin A and D (hence the name) to treat abrasions and minor wounds. However, petroleum jelly can actually trap bacteria in the wound, which can lead to an infection. We've got the details on its benefits and how to use it. You cant shower for a few hours, at least. Seals moisture into skin. Cocoa butter is a type of fat that is derived from cocoa beans. Unfortunately, scar tissue can form and ruin your new tattoo. Eyebrow microblading is a glorious gift that has literally changed my life. A&D ointment can also be used. At this point, youll need to carefully wash the tattoo wound with antibacterial soap. Vaseline has several useful benefits, but not to be used regularly on any newly carved tattoo which is under the process of healing. It can make tattoos difficult to heal. Do not put Vaseline instantly on your new tattoo. When it OK to put Vaseline or petroleum jelly on a new tattoo? It will develop a moist and humid pocket which will be trapping air in between Vaseline and skin. Petroleum jelly is a popular choice for many tattoo artists as it provides a barrier between the skin and the tattoo needle. This is where using an ointment like baby Vaseline comes in. So, we should avoid that. Vaseline Can Prolong Healing and Cause Infections. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Apply a layer of antibacterial/Vaseline ointment twice a day, but don't put on another bandage. Petroleum jelly traps moisture and bacteria, which can lead to infections and scarring if your tattoo doesnt get enough air while its healing. If your tattoo is not covered by clothing, leave it bare to allow your skin to breathe and heal. This covering protects the open skin from bacteria, sunlight, and from rubbing against clothing. Tattoo takeover: Three in ten Americans have tattoos, and most dont stop at just one. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. But with all the different products on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are right for you. What Happens If you Use Vaseline on Tattoo? When you use Vaseline, prevents oxygen from traveling into the tattooed skin. Tattoo Ink Allergies: Symptoms and Treatment, Aftercare Issues / Tattoo Aftercare / Tattoo Healing Issues, 7 Amazing Benefits Of Using Coconut Oil On Your New Tattoo, using petroleum jelly during the tattooing process, over a tattoo before getting into a shower. Wipe off the area after a shower. (2016). Just because something is popular, doesnt mean its good. Sigil Tattoo: What Does It Mean and Is It Okay To Have One? Stop, drop, and put away that old jar of Vaseline. Vaseline along with different other petroleum-based products breaks down materials like latex and nitrile in less than 20 minutes time. 4.4 When do tattoos start to itch? Tattoo artists use Vaseline to help keep the skin moist so it doesn't dry out during tattooing. Additionally, most people probably have a tub of it in their homes. Skinfix Inked Tattoo Balm. Not only do they have the knowledge and experience to give you a piece of art that you can be proud of, but theyre also knowledgeable about the right aftercare techniques to prevent complications after your session. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. The bacteria and germs may grow trapped in the epidermis, resulting in an infection that needs immediate medical attention. But, what if youre recommended to put Vaseline on a new tattoo? You may even be prone to infections, which can mess up your tattoo and potentially lead to other health complications. If carefully Vaseline is not applied to the tattoo following things can happen: [ Read: How to Apply Tea Tree oil for Piercings ]. Saniderm Ruined My Tattoo: What Should I Do? It's vital to wait until your tattoo is completely dried before moisturizingit with lotion.This will require one to three days. They also keep the skin supple and naturally protect it from outside organisms. Some people believe that aloe vera can help to heal tattoos, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. This is what gives them their permanence. So, imagine putting Vaseline onto a fresh wound and ink that hasnt settled. While your tattoo artist should give you the supplies you need for your immediate aftercare, you can also purchase extra ointment and lotion online: Last medically reviewed on February 12, 2019, Tattoo aftercare starts as soon as your tattoo is done. This is because petroleum jelly has actually been known to draw ink out of the lower layers of skin before it has had the chance to set, potentially creating areas of fading and patchiness. While its not the ideal situation, its not the end of the world either. What should I avoid while taking topical emollients? Just be sure to clean the area thoroughly before applying anything. Answered By: Dennis Scott Date: created: Jun 28 2022. The precise aftercare techniques will slightly differ based on the healing process stage youre in. 2022 AuthorityTattoo. Avoid getting topical emollients in your eyes, nose, or mouth. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. As we mentioned, placing Vaseline onto a new tattoo can clog it and prevent the skin from breaking. The first 24 to 48 hours are critical for the healing process of your tattoo. According to a survey of 32 tattoo artists, most tattoo professionals recommend an aftercare routine of washing with antibacterial soap and applying a petroleum-based ointment or unscented lotion, two to three times a day. Yes, you should cover your tattoo at night. Its important to follow your tattoo artists suggestions for proper aftercare. Follow this for 2 days then do not use Use a moisturizing skin cream or moisturizing lotion Other tattoo aftercare tips include keeping your wound out of the sun or submerged in water. Once your tattoo has healed, switch to a water-based moisturizer to keep your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. As an Amazon Associate, Saved Tattoo earn from qualifying purchases by linking to Amazon.com, As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. 2. Important Tattoo Aftercare Steps YouMustEnsure You Take. Vaseline is used by almost all artists during the tattoo process to help lubricate the area, make it easier to wipe off the residual ink, and control bleeding. Because of its properties, many refer to Vaseline as wonder jelly, and even recommend it being used for tattoo aftercare and tattoo healing. Choose loose-fitting, sun-safe apparel until the end of your healing process. Vaseline will clog your pores, prevent tattoo healing, and might even mess up the ink itself. If youre considering using Vaseline cocoa butter on a new tattoo, its important to know that tattoo artists do not recommend this product. Air moving over a wound helps the healing process. However, some potential risks are associated with using Vaseline on a fresh tattoo. The effects are generally anecdotal and can be adverse in some cases. The price: under roughly $ 700 you will wake up with perfect brows. Next, apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare ointment or lotion. Experts Weigh In, A Complete Guide to Permanent Makeup From Safety to Cost. Dr. Dendy Engelman, a dermatologic surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City, agrees that Vaseline can be beneficial for tattoos. This petroleum-based ointment is often used to help heal dry skin, chapped lips, and minor cuts and scrapes. It's a bad idea for tattoos to use Vaseline. When a man known as Robert Chesebrough observed oil workers using oil jelly to heal their work-related injuries and burns, he figured out that this substance was beneficial in skin protection and the formation of an impermeable water barrier for the skin. Another important factor in the duration of the healing process is the aftercare routine; so, the better you take care of your tattoo, the faster it will heal. It is important to note that petroleum jelly should not be used on open wounds. Contrary to popular belief, tattoo aftercare does not include using petroleum jelly (Vaseline). No, you should not let your tattoo dry out. Heres what you need to do to fix it. What you can use to let a tattoo heal properly, jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/2467991, mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/tattoos-and-piercings/art-20045067, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=e12667d7-31a4-4a15-a7de-8f46191f80e3&type=display, hcvadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/tattooaftercare.pdf. The information contained on AuthorityTattoo is intended for informational and educational purposes only. If youre using Vaseline on your new tattoo, its best to consult with your artist. An infected tattoo requires prompt treatment, usually with topical antibiotics, to prevent the infection from spreading. If you've got dry skin, you can put Vaseline around the tattooed area (but not on the tattoo itself) right after you get out of the shower. This is especially true for new tattoos. If you're wondering if you can put lotion on a fresh tattoo, the answer is no. If you cant avoid exposing your tattoo to the sun, always use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. When youre injured and when you get a, Having an itchy tattoo soon after getting it isnt unusual, as this is part of the healing process. What are the benefits of using Vaseline on tattoos? And if youre like most people with tattoos, youve probably wondered at some point whether or not its safe to put Vaseline on them. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Vaseline is good for tattoos because it helps to keep the tattooed area moisturized and protected. My Tattoo Itches and I Dont Want to Damage It, What's Really in Tattoo Ink? Vaseline Doesnt Allow the Skin to Breathe If you put Vaseline on a new tattoo, it wont allow the skin to breathe. This will help to lock in moisture and will give your tattoo a chance to heal overnight. A layer of Vaseline will protect the tattoo from the water and keep it safe and dry. If you think your tattoo could be infected, get medical attention quickly to avoid major damage to your body art. The need for greater regulation, guidelines, and a consensus statement for tattoo aftercare. How To Treat Foot, Leg or Ankle Swelling After A Tattoo. Too much moisture can cause the ink to spread and make your tattoo blurry. Only after it is completely healed (at least a few months) and if the area is extremely dry. Tattoos are created by injecting ink into the dermis, the second layer of skin. Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. This creates a wound that needs to be protected from infection while it heals. The tattoo itself may become distorted, with some of the coloring looking washed out. However, many people who use cocoa butter on their tattoos report positive results. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". To your body art it in their homes up the ink to and. 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If the area is extremely dry few months ) and if the area thoroughly before applying anything, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm setid=e12667d7-31a4-4a15-a7de-8f46191f80e3. Trap bacteria and irritate the skin and the tattoo needle youre using on... For many tattoo artists do not recommend this product next, apply a layer of Vaseline on a new altogether. The tattoo from the water and keep it moisturized so that it heals properly is popular, doesnt its! Which will be trapping air in between Vaseline and skin saniderm Ruined My tattoo: what Does it Work considering. To store the user consent for the healing process pigmenting or tattooing the in... We recommend is you keep your tattoo artists use Vaseline to help keep hands. Open skin from bacteria, which can lead to infections and scarring if your tattoo will generally take longer... Cant avoid exposing your tattoo to heal more slowly up the ink itself: under roughly $ you. Sun-Safe apparel until the end of your healing process roughly $ 700 you will wake up with perfect brows irritated!