
How to Care for a Tattoo
New Tattoo or Old, Here's How to Keep Tattoos Looking Good
H2 heading to waive off WCAG issue
H3 heading to waive off WCAG issue
- What to Put on a Tattoo?
More than 1 in 5 Americans have tattoos¹. When you consider that getting one involves needles repeatedly puncturing the skin, it’s clear tattoos require a lot of skin care planning before and after the procedure. Since skin will be damaged and extremely sensitive, extra hydration and care are necessary for maintaining the healthy appearance of skin and ensuring a beautiful final tattoo.
- Is Vaseline® Good on Tattoos?
Dry skin can impact the appearance of your tattoos during and after the process. Moisture is key to protecting and caring for skin, so the moment you decide to get a tattoo, keep the area hydrated withVaseline® Healing Jelly to lock in moisture and help protect the skin.
Note: While safety standards have been self-implemented throughout the industry, nationwide regulations have not—some states¹ still don’t require licensed tattoo artists to provide instructions on aftercare. So research the proper procedures for a safe tattoo, and make sure your tattoo artist is practicing safe procedures to prevent infections. Consult your dermatologist before and after your tattoo for advice on how to best care for your skin.

- Taking Care of a Tattoo, What to Use
Tattoos use a mechanized needle to puncture the skin and inject pigment just below the epidermis. Like any surgical procedure, this has significant impact on the appearance of your skin and the aftercare should be carefully considered. An after-tattoo skin care routine can be key to healthy looking skin after the procedure.
In lieu of applying a tattoo lotion after your tattoo is completed, try a thin layer of Vaseline® Healing Jelly. The triple-purified white petrolatum can protect skin by creating a sealing barrier, locking in moisture which can help your skin’s natural recovery process. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t aggravate oily or combination skin. Learn more about the causes and treatment of oily or combination skin.
The next day, remove the bandage and gently wash the tattoo area with mild liquid soap and warm water. Do not scrub with a washcloth, sponge or loofah. Pat dry with a clean, soft cloth and moisturize with another thin layer of Vaseline® Jelly. Leave off the bandage so the skin can air dry. Wash and re-moisturize 3-5 times a day. For the next month, keep the tattoo out of the sun and resist the desire to scratch and pick at the skin. It may take up to four weeks to heal completely, depending on size and design. Keep following your after tattoo care instructions to keep skin clean, dry and hydrated.
Once your tattoo has fully healed, make sure to always keep the area hydrated with Vaseline® Jelly and a high SPF sunscreen. Tattoos can fade in the sun even long after they heal. For ongoing healthy looking skin, consider daily application of Vaseline® Intensive Care™ Lotions. The proper care of a tattoo starts the moment you decide to get one. Know the safety procedures, find a safe practitioner, consult a dermatologist as needed and hydrate it properly long after it’s completed. Once you learn how to care for a tattoo, you can maintain the beautiful body art you always wanted.
1. Liszewski, MD Walter. “The Need for Evidence-Based Best Practices for Tattoo Aftercare.” JAMA Dermatology, American Medical Association, 1 Feb. 2016.
Expert Advice
The advice in this article does not constitute medical advice, it is solely available for information purposes.
Related Articles
-
Lip Balm for Your Lips
Pucker up and give your dry lips some love with one of our soothing and healing Vaseline® lip balms.<div> </div>Read More Lip Balm for Your Lips » -
Different Ways to Use Vaseline® Jelly
From cuts & scrapes to rash & redness, Vaseline® Healing Jelly uses are varied. Learn more about Vaseline® benefits here.<div> </div>Read More Different Ways to Use Vaseline® Jelly » -
How to Remove Acne Scars and Help Skin Heal
If acne wasn't bad enough, scars extend pain past the pop. Here's how to heal.Read More How to Remove Acne Scars and Help Skin Heal » -
Treating Age Spots on Hands
Follow these tips and skin care regime from Vaseline to get a handle on the appearance of age spots on your hands, and feel confident again.Read More Treating Age Spots on Hands »
Related Products

EQUITABLE SKINCARE FOR ALL
Every body, Everywhere Deserves Healthy Skin
Systemic racism and healthcare inequities negatively impact Black and Latinx communities, leading to worse health outcomes for people of color, and skincare is no exception. We want to change that.