Tattoo Aftercare
Tattoos are some of the most dynamic — and often expensive — symbols of self-expression that exist today. Because new tattoos are essentially open wounds, it’s important to follow the expert guidance of a reputable artist for proper cleaning and aftercare. In doing so, your tattoo should heal quickly with lowered risks of infection and other problems that could ruin your tattoo. One vital step in the aftercare process is to keep your fresh ink moisturized and protected — two things that the right tattoo balm can help with.
What Is Tattoo Balm?
Balms are soothing substances, formulated to provide healing and refreshing properties to the skin. For example, lip balms protect from dryness, muscle balms relieve pain or tension, and healing balms can help heal small cuts and burns. If you’ve used any of those types of balms, you can see why tattoo balms are rising in popularity with their specialized ingredients and applications. In a nutshell, tattoo balms are meant to support the body’s natural healing process so that you can keep the colors of your tattoo vibrant, the linework bold, and your skin protected.
There are plenty of products on the market that claim to help heal your tattoo and keep your skin healthy. Some of those products contain chemicals and other synthetic ingredients that can damage your tattoo and have been marked as cancer-causing. However, choosing the perfect product for you doesn’t have to be so overwhelming and we’ve broken down some helpful information for you in the paragraphs below.
The Healing Process
While every artist has a slightly different approach to tattoo aftercare, the basics seem to remain the same:
Keep your tattoo, and the surrounding area, clean and free from debris
Avoid submerging your tattoo in the bath, pool, ocean, etc. Showers are typically okay
Avoid long-term exposure to UV rays (i.e. direct sunlight and tanning beds)
Dress in breathable, loose-fitting clothing
Drink plenty of water
Resist the temptation to scratch or pick off scabs
Be careful not to over or under-moisturize your tattoo
Avoid products that contain alcohol, petroleum (Vaseline), lanolin, mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, and fragrances
Properly moisturizing your tattoo throughout the healing process is relatively simple and something you have full control over. Keeping the above in mind, shop for a balm that uses natural ingredients that will nourish the area without trapping bacteria underneath the skin.
Choosing a Tattoo Balm
Not all tattoo balms are created equal, but you can often find the same or similar ingredients in each product. Since you will be applying the balm to healing skin, make sure you do your research and choose one that is made of natural, high-quality ingredients. Fortunately, Bowler Cat Co. has just what you need.
Our balm can be used on gray-scale tattoos, color tattoos, big ones, small ones, new ones, and old ones — anywhere on your body. Breathe easy knowing you won’t find any artificial scents, essential oils, fragrances, synthetic preservatives, harmful chemicals, or dyes in our formula, making it safe for sensitive skin.
Directions for Use
Once your new tattoo has scabbed over and begun peeling (typically 1-3 weeks), you can move away from Aquaphor (or whatever non-petroleum based moisturizer your artist recommended) and follow these simple steps for a hydrated, happy tattoo:
Thoroughly wash both your hands and the tattooed area with a mild, fragrance free soap. Check with your artist for recommendations
Using your finger or a clean cosmetics spatula, scoop out enough Bowler Cat Co. Tattoo Balm to cover your tattoo without leaving any excess. The amount you scoop will depend on how large your tattoo is but should only be a light layer, allowing your tattoo to breathe
Gently apply our balm to the tattooed area. DO NOT pick at any scabs or attempt to rub them off with the balm. Removing scabs prematurely can tear the skin, causing it to bleed which will introduce bacterial into the bloodstream and could lead to infection. If this happens, gently wash the area with antibacterial soap, pat dry, and wait until the bleeding stops before applying balm to that area again
Reapply Bowler Cat Co.’s Tattoo Balm after washing the area (typically 1-3 times per day, depending on the area) and/or when it begins to feel dry and itchy again
IMPORTANT: If, during the healing process, you experience bubbles forming on your skin, stop applying any ointments, lotions, or balms and allow the tattoo to fully dry then contact your tattoo artist for further instruction. It is likely you have over-moisturized and may need a refresher on proper tattoo aftercare before continuing to moisturize.
How Long Should I Use Bowler Cat Co.’s Tattoo Balm?
Since our Tattoo Balm is made from all-natural ingredients, it is safe to use as soon as your tattoo has scabbed over and begun peeling until however long you like. Be sure you are mindful not to over-moisturize your tattoo during the healing process. For older tattoos in need of some TLC, you might also consider picking up our Tattoo Revitalizer.
Summary
It is absolutely crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. Your artist will give you their advice at the end of your tattoo session and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask them. Even though Bowler Cat Co.’s Tattoo Balm is made with all-natural, high-quality ingredients, we recommend consulting with your artist before using this balm to ensure you have a safe experience.
Please contact us if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.