10 Best Tattoo Aftercare Creams Ranked by Professional Artists
Getting a tattoo is a big investment in self-expression, and proper aftercare is essential to ensure your new ink heals beautifully and lasts a lifetime. With a flood of tattoo aftercare products on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which creams and lotions are truly trusted by the pros. This guide breaks down the 10 best tattoo aftercare creams that professional artists recommend for optimal healing, comfort, and vibrant results.
Why Tattoo Aftercare Cream Matters
Tattoo aftercare creams play a vital role in the healing process. The right cream:
- Soothes irritation, redness, and swelling
- Prevents infection and scabbing
- Keeps skin hydrated and supple
- Helps preserve color and detail
- Reduces itching and discomfort
Choosing the correct aftercare product is as important as choosing the right artist. The wrong cream can delay healing, cause allergic reactions, or even distort your tattoo’s appearance.
How Professional Artists Rank Tattoo Aftercare Creams
When ranking aftercare creams, professional tattoo artists look for:
- Natural, skin-safe ingredients
- Non-petroleum, non-comedogenic formulas
- Moisturizing without clogging pores
- Fragrance-free or hypoallergenic options
- Dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free products
Let’s explore the creams that top artists keep in their studios and recommend to every client.
10 Best Tattoo Aftercare Creams (2025 Rankings)
| Rank | Product | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hustle Butter Deluxe |
|
All skin types, full healing cycle |
| 2 | Aquaphor Healing Ointment |
|
First 1–3 days, sensitive skin |
| 3 | Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion |
|
Ongoing care, normal to dry skin |
| 4 | Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion |
|
Long-term maintenance, sensitive skin |
| 5 | After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer |
|
Healing & daily use |
| 6 | Redemption Tattoo Care |
|
First week, sensitive skin |
| 7 | Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Organic Magic Balm |
|
Initial healing, allergies |
| 8 | A+D Original Ointment |
|
Early days, budget-friendly |
| 9 | Balm Tattoo Original |
|
All phases, vibrant color |
| 10 | Mad Rabbit Tattoo Aftercare |
|
Tattoo upkeep, daily hydration |
In-Depth Reviews of the Top Tattoo Aftercare Creams
1. Hustle Butter Deluxe
Why pros love it: Hustle Butter Deluxe is often called the gold standard in tattoo aftercare. Packed with natural butters and oils, it soothes, moisturizes, and conditions the skin without petroleum. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested, and works at every stage of the process—from prepping the skin to maintaining old tattoos. Many artists praise its non-greasy texture and tropical scent. Available in jars, sticks, and convenient travel sachets.
2. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Why pros love it: Aquaphor is a staple in many studios, especially for the initial healing phase. Its petrolatum base forms a protective barrier, locking in moisture and shielding the tattoo from bacteria. Use Aquaphor sparingly for the first 1–3 days, then switch to a lighter lotion to avoid clogging pores. It’s ideal for sensitive or very dry skin.
3. Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
Why pros love it: Lubriderm’s lightweight, fragrance-free formula is perfect for ongoing tattoo care. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave a greasy residue, and is gentle enough for daily use on both new and healed tattoos. Dermatologists and artists alike recommend it for keeping ink vibrant and skin healthy.
4. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
Why pros love it: Cetaphil is celebrated for its gentle, non-irritating formula. It’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and suitable for even the most sensitive skin—making it a go-to for clients prone to irritation or allergic reactions. It maintains hydration without overwhelming delicate healing skin.
5. After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer
Why pros love it: After Inked is a vegan, petroleum-free cream made with grape seed oil. It’s designed specifically for tattoos and is used in many reputable studios worldwide. Its non-greasy consistency and skin-calming properties help speed up healing and keep colors bold.
6. Redemption Tattoo Care
Why pros love it: Redemption offers an organic, all-natural alternative to traditional ointments. It’s safe for use during and after tattooing, with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and discomfort. It’s particularly favored by artists who prioritize organic skincare.
7. Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Organic Magic Balm
Why pros love it: This multi-purpose balm contains organic oils and beeswax, providing a gentle, fragrance-free option for healing tattoos. It’s particularly helpful for those with allergies or sensitivities, and it doubles as a great general skin salve.
8. A+D Original Ointment
Why pros love it: A+D Ointment is a tried-and-true classic for wound care, often recommended by both tattoo artists and medical professionals. It combines lanolin and petrolatum to protect and moisturize. Its affordability and effectiveness make it a common budget-friendly choice for the first few days post-tattoo.
9. Balm Tattoo Original
Why pros love it: Balm Tattoo’s formula contains panthenol, which promotes skin regeneration and helps tattoos heal faster and brighter. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and designed to enhance color retention.
10. Mad Rabbit Tattoo Aftercare
Why pros love it: Mad Rabbit’s blend of shea butter, sweet almond oil, and other natural ingredients is tailored for tattoo upkeep. It’s fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and helps maintain vivid ink while keeping skin soft and healthy.
How to Use Tattoo Aftercare Cream Properly
- Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
- Gently clean the tattooed area with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a clean, soft towel—never rub.
- Apply a thin layer of aftercare cream, just enough to cover the area without leaving a thick residue.
- Repeat 2–3 times daily or as directed by your artist, for at least two weeks.
- Avoid over-application, which can suffocate skin and delay healing.
Ointments vs. Lotions: What’s the Difference?
| Ointments | Lotions |
|---|---|
|
|
Common Mistakes in Tattoo Aftercare
- Over-applying ointments (can trap bacteria and moisture)
- Using scented or alcohol-based products (can irritate skin)
- Picking or scratching healing skin (can cause scarring)
- Exposing tattoo to sun, pools, or hot tubs too soon
- Ignoring professional aftercare advice
FAQ: Tattoo Aftercare Creams
What ingredients should I avoid in tattoo aftercare creams?
Avoid creams with artificial fragrances, dyes, alcohol, or 100% petroleum bases. These can irritate healing skin, clog pores, or cause allergic reactions.
When should I switch from ointment to lotion?
Most professionals recommend using an ointment for the first 1–3 days, then switching to a lighter, fragrance-free lotion once your tattoo starts to scab or peel.
Can I use Vaseline or petroleum jelly on my tattoo?
It’s best to avoid pure petroleum jelly, as it can block airflow, trap moisture, and impede healing. Use specialized tattoo ointments or creams instead.
How often should I apply aftercare cream?
Apply a thin layer 2–3 times daily, or whenever the area feels dry. Over-application can suffocate the tattoo and delay healing.
What if I have sensitive skin or allergies?
Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic creams like Cetaphil, Dr. Bronner’s Magic Balm, or Hustle Butter Deluxe. Always patch test on a small area first.
How long should I use tattoo aftercare cream?
Continue applying aftercare cream for at least two weeks, or until the tattoo is fully healed and the skin feels normal. Ongoing hydration helps preserve your tattoo’s vibrancy.
Key Takeaways
- Professional tattoo artists recommend aftercare creams that are gentle, non-petroleum, and rich in hydrating ingredients.
- Hustle Butter Deluxe, Aquaphor, Lubriderm, and Cetaphil are among the most trusted options for healing and maintaining tattoos.
- Use ointments for the first few days; switch to lotions for ongoing hydration.
- Avoid scented, alcohol-based, or heavy petroleum products for best results.
- Consistent aftercare is crucial for vibrant, long-lasting tattoo art.
Proper care doesn’t end when you leave the studio—give your ink the best chance to shine with the right aftercare cream!