When you get a new tattoo, the excitement to show it off is strong. However, the aftercare routine can be complicated with contradictory advice. Vaseline is often seen as a staple for damaged and irritated skin, seeming like a great option for tattoos.
But you should think again. Though known as a miracle skin healer, Vaseline can do more harm than good for tattoos, potentially leading to infection or color distortion by blocking air circulation.
Is Vaseline Good For Tattoos?-The Answer
[su_note note_color=”#D3D3D3″ radius=”6″]Using Vaseline on a fresh tattoo can hinder healing by blocking air, leading to swelling and redness. Most tattoo shops advise against it to prevent potential infection and scarring.[/su_note]
Is Vaseline Good For Tattoos?
When you get a fresh tattoo, it might seem like a good idea to use Vaseline. After all, petroleum jelly has been used to moisturize dry, damaged, and sensitive skin for many years. This wonder jelly made of mineral oil and waxes is a staple in many homes. However, for new ink, it is not a good option.
The thick layer of Vaseline blocks air, affecting healing and possibly causing swelling and redness. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to prevent infection and scarring that can ruin your tattoo. Most Philadelphia tattoo shops recommend you keep away from Vaseline and rethink using it on your tattoo.
What is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a refined derivative of petroleum known as petroleum jelly. Its main components include paraffin, and it’s used as an ointment in medicine, cosmetics, and tattoos. Vaseline is composed of saturated hydrocarbons, giving it a thick texture, and is odorless, whitish or yellowish, and greasy.
It doesn’t dissolve in water and serves as the base for many ointments and creams in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Liquid Vaseline has the same composition but a different consistency, making it a good hair or facial moisturizer.
Can I Use Vaseline On A New Tattoo?
When you get a fresh tattoo, you might think Vaseline is good for its healing properties. However, petroleum jelly can clog skin pores and does not allow the skin to breathe. This can lead to clogged pores, acne, and prolonged wound healing. A tattoo is an open wound that needs air to dry and form new layers. Oxygen is vital for promoting wound healing, and blocking it can slow the aftercare process.
Additionally, Vaseline can cause problems with the tattoo ink as it interacts with the fresh ink, which has not yet settled into the skin’s layers. Artists often recommend keeping your hands and clothes away from the new ink for 24 to 48 hours to prevent ooze of blood, plasma, and excess ink.
Using Vaseline can also attract germs and bacteria, causing severe infections that damage the tattoo’s appearance. It’s best to avoid petroleum-based products and check the ingredient list before applying anything on your tattoo.
What Should You Use Instead Of Vaseline?
- For the first 24 to 48 hours, never apply anything to the skin of a new tattoo to let the healing process start.
- After this period, consider alternatives to Vaseline products:
- LaRoche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5:
- Soothing balm for dry skin
- Smoothly minimizes itching
- Promotes healing process
- Apply the cream twice a day after washing and drying the skin
- Excellent for irritated, itchy, sensitive, and dry skin
- Bepanthen Diaper Care Ointment:
- Known from baby skincare
- One of the best choices for tattoo aftercare
- Experts and artists recommend to their clients
- Gentle formula promotes natural healing properties
- Helps retain moisture and restore hydration
- Apply twice a day
- Sebamed Extreme Dry Skin Repair Lotion:
- Exceptional choice with high concentration of urea
- Repairs skin, relieves skin tightness, scaling, and itching
- Keeps skin moisturized and hydrated
- Gentle lotion helps minimize flaking, dryness, and itchiness almost instantly
- Aids the tattoo healing process
- LaRoche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5:
Skip The Vaseline And Choose Lighter Options
When I got my first tattoo, I was eager to make sure it healed perfectly. I remember my friend suggesting Vaseline, but having done some research and consulted my tattoo artist, I learned it’s not a good idea for a new tattoo. Vaseline can clog pores and mess up the beautiful ink, which is the last thing anyone wants after spending time and money on getting a tattoo.
Instead, I was advised to focus on lighter, petroleum-free products. These are better as they help the natural healing process and promote healthy healing for the skin. I’ve used them for years now, and they’ve always been the best option to heal my skin without issues. So, skip the Vaseline and opt for lighter alternatives to keep your tattoo looking great.
Contradictions in the use of Vaseline
Using Vaseline on a fresh tattoo has its pros and cons. Its thick, greasy consistency can detrimentally clog pores, reduce oxygenation, and delay healing, leading to long-term problems. These issues have generated discussions about its use.
Although a petroleum derivative, the European Commission declared it a safe ingredient. If healing issues arise, it’s advisable to change aftercare measures. Vaseline can be safe if used correctly, but its potential drawbacks make it controversial.
Frequently Asked Question
Is it okay to put Vaseline on a new tattoo?
When caring for your new tattoo, it’s essential to avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that these can trap moisture and bacteria, increasing the risk of developing an infection and causing the ink to fade. They recommend water-based moisturizers instead. While super thick ointments might seem helpful, they can harm your tattoo’s healing process. Stick to the recommended products to keep your tattoo vibrant and healthy.
Why do tattoo artists use Vaseline?
After a tattoo session, artists often apply a thin layer of Vaseline to protect the tattoo from unwanted bacteria and prevent infections. This cover helps keep the area free of danger. They then cover it with cling paper, ensuring the tattoo remains protected and heals well.
Is aloe vera good for tattoos?
Aloe Vera excels in tattoo aftercare, supporting the healing process effectively from multiple angles. As a natural multitasker, it keeps your tattoo care routine simple and effective, soothing the skin without disrupting the healing with heavy occlusion, unlike Vaseline.
