You just got an amazing new tattoo, and now the real work begins: the aftercare! That fresh ink is like a brand-new canvas, and you want it to heal perfectly. But what do you slather on it? Walk down any drugstore aisle, and you face a wall of lotions, balms, and ointments. Does one really work better than the others? It’s confusing!
Choosing the wrong cream can lead to irritation, fading, or a longer healing time. You invested time and money into that art; you don’t want to mess up the final result with the wrong aftercare product. That’s why we dove deep into the best ways to care for your new masterpiece.
In this guide, we break down exactly what ingredients you need, which products experts recommend, and how to apply them correctly for vibrant, healthy healing. Keep reading to stop guessing and start caring for your tattoo like a pro!
Top Cream To Put On New Tattoo Recommendations
- TATTOO AFTERCARE ESSENTIAL: Hustle Butter is the original tattoo aftercare balm for new and older tattoos. With over 10 years in the market, we are a pioneer of the tattoo aftercare category.
- TATTOO BALM SAFE FOR USE WHILE HEALING: Hustle Butter is not only safe for new tattoos but is the #1 artist recommended tattoo aftercare product to moisturize and nourish skin as the tattoo heals.
- MADE WITH VEGAN AND NATURALLY DERIVED INGREDIENTS: Certified cruelty-free and vegan, our tattoo balm is also petroleum free. It is made from only the finest naturally-derived ingredients, including Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Mango Seed Butter and Green Tea Extract
- USED BY ARTISTS WORLDWIDE: Hustle Butter is the #1 brand used and recommended by artists, because they helped create it. Hustle Butter makes the full tattoo process better and more efficient for the artist and the client. Hustle Butter does not remove stencils or clog tubes allowing for colors to go in easier.
- THE MOST RECOGNIZED NAME IN TATTOO CARE: Back in 2011 Richie Bulldog and Seth Love, staples in the tattoo community, knew tattoos needed more care than what was available on the market. Through their experience with long and painful processes and uncomfortable heals, they made it their mission to build a superior product that could be used before, during, and after tattooing. With the perfection of our flagship product, Hustle Butter Deluxe, a brand was born.
- Numbing Cream Maximum Strength : Long Lasting Numbing Cream with 5x Numbing - Emu Oil and Arnica (1.7 OZ/50ml)
- Fast-Acting Formula, Less Waiting Time: Enhanced with proprietary compatibility technology, it accelerates absorption and numbing efficiency—working faster than traditional anesthetic creams to minimize wait time.
- Healing-Enhancing, Recovery Support: Infused with active ingredients like Arnica and Emu Oil, it penetrates deeply to soothe, moisturize, and repair skin. Promotes faster healing, reduces scabbing, and lowers the risk of infection.
- Fragrance-Free, Oil-Free, Non-Greasy: Lightweight texture leaves no residue, contains no harsh chemicals or oils. Easy to apply and remove without staining clothes.
- Simple Application, Safe to Use: Apply to clean skin and allow time to take full effect. Patch test recommended before first use to ensure compatibility.
- This Tattoo. -(Cleansing) - System removes your tattoos and Ink . The rich, whipped texture is easy to apply and quickly absorbs without a greasy - feeling.
- PROFESSIONAL FORMULA: Advanced t-at-too- removal -cream designed for maximum fading. This product is specifically- formulated to leave the skin supple, soft, and hydrated.
- Our cream-based formula ensures simplicity and excellence. It has a largely oil-(free), and (paraben)-free composition for a clean and gentle application.
- Experience a tattoo - removal regimen that embodies commitment to quality.
- Do not compromise when it comes to what you put on your skin.
- HEALING BALM - Made with the finest blend of humectants, essential oils and premium natural ingredients for moisturization, anti-oxidation, and stimulation of circulation. Designed to help the skin heal itself for vibrant new tats.
- ANTIOXIDANT SUPPORT - No preparation has more antioxidant activity than Tattoo Goo. We use quality pumice grade olive oil to help manage the skin healing process along with wheat germ oil, loaded with the antioxidant vitamin E, and rosemary extract.
- MOISTURIZER & BRIGHTENER - With 98% natural healing ingredients including triglycerides, olive oil, lavender, cocoa butter, and wax ester beeswax to help soothe inflammation, lubricate and moisturize. Petroleum and lanolin-free, never tested on animals.
- AVOID DRIED OUT TATS - Using aftercare products does not allow the tattoo to dry out. It makes a tattoo softer and promotes quicker healing by keeping the area lubricated and moist. Compact tin makes it super convenient to apply whenever needed.
- CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST TESTED - The product is pharmacist developed and clinical studies confirm Tattoo Goo after care products are not associated with skin irritation or allergic dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). Apply with confidence!
- SUPERIOR HEALING: Get everything you need to heal your tattoo & keep it looking as good as the day you got it. Maintain & enhance vibrant color with this 3-piece Tattoo Care Kit. It includes everything you need to care for new ink, help it heal quickly & keep colors bright (reducing the need for expensive touch-ups). Plus, you can’t beat the savings when you buy the full aftercare suite together.
- ANTIMICROBIAL SOAP: Get broad-spectrum antimicrobial & antibacterial protection in a pH balanced formula. Unscented & alcohol-free, our deep cleansing soap is a gentle way to disinfect fresh ink & help prevent infections. Formulated with premium grade moisture-rich olive oil, this soap deeply cleanses to remove dead skin & dirt while minimizing irritation, dryness & leaves no residue.
- HEALING BALM: Formulated with 60%+ olive oil, lavender oil & only all-natural ingredients, our balm is the original go-to for ink that is healing or healed. Our rich balm is made to mimic the natural oils that occur in your skin so it goes on smoothly & absorbs well for moisturized skin & vibrant ink.
- AFTERCARE LOTION: This light lotion prevents scabbing & speeds the healing process. Moisturizing with the bonus of itch relief, our lotion soothes healing skin & keeps healed ink looking sharp for life! Formulated with Olive Oil & Panthenol, our lotion provides essential oils & Vitamin B5 to deeply re-moisturize dry skin, essential during the healing process. This antioxidant rich formula is also perfect for older tattoos to bring back color and stimulate collagen!
- CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST TESTED: Tattoo Goo products are pharmacist developed & supported by clinical studies confirming Tattoo Goo After Care products are not associated with skin irritation or allergic dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). Cruelty Free, Petroleum Jelly & Lanolin-free & proudly made in the USA. Apply with confidence!
- AWARD-WINNING INGREDIENTS. Our Daily Moisturizer is specially formulated with the award-winning Liftonin-Expert, an intelligent collagen booster that increases the look and intensity of ink while nourishing and protecting skin.
- FORMULATED FOR ALL TYPES OF SKIN & INK. Stories & Ink’s tattoo care supports all types of ink and skin, making it a great choice for everyone who wants to take their tattoo skin care to the next level.
- ALL DAY HYDRATION & PROTECTION. The Daily Moisturizer ensures all-day skin hydration, while providing a protective barrier against environmental factors that can cause tattoos to fade.
- MADE IN THE UK. Proudly produced and manufactured in the UK with the highest standard of formulations, science-backed ingredients, and dermatologic testing.
- HOW TO USE. Avoid contact with eyes. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. Do not apply to non-healed skin.
- Tattooed Skin Moisturize & Color Enhance: Pamiou Tattoo Aftercare Balm is enriched with Grape seed oil, shea butter, and coconut extract, providing effective antioxidant and moisturizing properties. These ingredients revitalize and replenish tattooed skin, keeping tattoos vibrant for years.
- Naturally-Derived Ingredients: Our cruelty-free, vegan, fragrance-free formula is also paraben-free and crafted from the finest ingredients, including Shea, Grape seed, Palm kernel, Coconut, Camellia japonica seed, Jojoba seed, Olive fruit, Meadowfoam, Oat, Olive squalane, Sunflower, and Vitamin E Complex.etc.
- For New & Older Tattoos, Prevents Fading: The tattoo aftercare Balm rich in antioxidants, our blend of butters and lightweight oils supports the skin’s natural barrier, defending against environmental stressors for healthy-looking tattoos, whether old or new.
- Sensitive Skin Friendly: Designed with sensitive skin in mind, our tattoo aftercare butter offers a gentle, nurturing formula to soothe and protect. Whether it’s a new tattoo or an addition to your collection, our balm ensures beautiful healing and vibrant tattoos.
- Brightens Your Tattoos & Repairs Skin Barrier: Pamiou Tattoo Cream features a formula developed by a professional laboratory team, enriched with nourishing ingredients that enhance ink vibrancy while soothing and moisturizing the skin. Ideal for maintaining tattoo longevity and brilliance.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Cream for Your New Tattoo
Getting a new tattoo is exciting! Now comes the important part: taking care of it. The right cream helps your skin heal well and keeps your new art looking sharp. This guide will help you pick the perfect aftercare product.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for tattoo aftercare cream, look for a few specific things. These features make the healing process smoother.
- **Moisturizing Power:** The cream must keep your tattoo hydrated. Dry skin pulls and cracks, which hurts the ink. Look for thick, rich creams or balms.
- **Soothing Ingredients:** Your new tattoo will feel sensitive and maybe a little itchy. Ingredients that calm the skin are very helpful. Think about natural extracts that reduce redness.
- **Non-Comedogenic:** This fancy term means the cream will not clog your pores. Clogged pores can trap bacteria and slow down healing.
- **Fragrance-Free:** Strong perfumes can irritate healing skin. Always choose unscented options for the best results.
Important Materials in Your Cream
The ingredients list tells you how good the cream will be. Certain materials are superstars for tattoo healing.
Natural Oils and Butters: These are fantastic moisturizers. Shea butter and cocoa butter create a protective layer over the tattoo. Coconut oil, in moderation, also helps keep the skin soft.
Vitamins and Antioxidants: Vitamin E is a common ingredient. It helps skin repair itself faster. Look for ingredients like Aloe Vera too; it is famous for soothing burns and irritation.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of products that list alcohol, petroleum jelly (like Vaseline), or strong dyes. Petroleum jelly can trap too much moisture, which is bad for healing. Alcohol dries out the skin too quickly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your cream directly impacts how your tattoo heals.
What Makes Quality Better: High-quality creams absorb nicely without leaving a greasy film. They allow the skin to breathe while still locking in moisture. Natural, organic ingredients often signal a higher quality product.
What Lowers Quality: Thin, watery lotions often evaporate too fast. They might feel good for a minute, but they do not provide lasting moisture. Products filled with cheap fillers or synthetic fragrances reduce the overall quality and can cause allergic reactions.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the cream matters as much as what is in it.
Application: You only need a very thin layer. Rub it in until the skin looks slightly shiny, not gloopy. Apply it gently—never scrub the area!
When to Use It: Use the cream several times a day, especially after washing your tattoo. Always wash your hands before touching the new art. A good time to apply a thicker layer is right before you go to sleep to help overnight healing.
Best Use Cases: These creams are essential for the first two to four weeks. After the peeling stops, you can switch to a regular, gentle lotion, but many people continue using their specialized tattoo cream for a month or two just to keep the colors vibrant.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About New Tattoo Cream
Q: When should I start putting cream on my new tattoo?
A: Wait about two to four hours after getting the tattoo. Your artist will clean it, and this short wait allows the initial oozing to stop.
Q: How many times a day should I apply the cream?
A: Most experts suggest applying it three to five times a day, or whenever your tattoo feels tight or dry.
Q: Can I use regular body lotion instead of a special tattoo cream?
A: You can use regular lotion after the first week, but special tattoo creams are formulated to speed up healing with better ingredients.
Q: Is it bad if my tattoo looks greasy after applying the cream?
A: Yes, if it looks very greasy, you are using too much. A thin layer is all you need. Too much cream can suffocate the skin.
Q: What is the best cream for a tattoo that is starting to itch?
A: Look for creams with Aloe Vera or Calendula. These ingredients are excellent for soothing that healing itch.
Q: Should I use a cream with SPF on my new tattoo?
A: Never use SPF on a fresh tattoo. Wait until the tattoo is completely healed—usually four weeks—before exposing it to the sun or using sunscreen.
Q: What should I do if my tattoo reacts badly to the cream?
A: If you see excessive swelling, heat, or pus, stop using the cream immediately and call your tattoo artist or doctor. This might be an allergy.
Q: Do I need to cover the tattoo with plastic wrap after applying cream?
A: No. After the first day (or as directed by your artist), you should let the tattoo air out. Covering it traps moisture and bacteria.
Q: Are ointments better than creams for healing?
A: Ointments (thicker balms) are great for the first few days to lock in moisture. Creams are lighter and better for the later stages of healing when the skin needs to breathe more.
Q: How long do I need to keep using specialized aftercare cream?
A: Most people use the specialized product for two to four weeks until the top layer of skin is fully closed and no longer flaky.