Best Tattoo Aftercare Creams of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Tattoo aftercare creams are essential for maintaining the quality of a new tattoo. These creams are specially formulated to nourish and moisturize the skin, while also protecting the tattoo from fading or becoming infected. They are typically made with natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, which help to soothe and heal the skin. Some tattoo aftercare creams also contain ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and redness. With regular use, tattoo aftercare creams can help keep tattoos looking vibrant and sharp for years to come.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover #TOP 1
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover #TOP 2
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm Cover #TOP 3
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Tattoo Aftercare Creams

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm

HBD_5oz
White
5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare 5oz Tattoo Balm, Heals + Protects New Tattoos and Rejuvenates Older Tattoos - 100% Vegan Cream No-Petroleum

Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Aftercare Balm is an all-natural, vegan, and petroleum-free product designed to help heal and protect new tattoos while also rejuvenating older tattoos. It is made from Shea, Mango, Aloe butter, Coconut, Sunflower, Rice Bran oils, Rosemary Oleoresin, Green Tea, Vitamin E Complex, Mint Arvenis Essential Oil, as well as the essence of Papaya, Coconut. It is used and recommended by artists worldwide and is certified cruelty-free.

What We Like
Smooth, non-greasy texture
Natural ingredients
Effective for healing tattoos
Long-lasting value
Pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
Can feel thick
Possibly greasy residue

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

MR-P
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream- Color Enhancement that Revives Old Tattoos, Hydrates New Tattoos, Made With Clean Ingredients + Petroleum Free, Daily Tattoo Lotion Moisturizer & Brightener

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream is a color enhancement product that revives old tattoos and hydrates new tattoos. It is made with natural ingredients and is petroleum free. It is great for sensitive skin and works on all skin colors and ink colors. It helps to maintain and restore the vibrancy of tattoos, while also preventing ink discoloration.

What We Like
Rich, non-greasy formula
Enhances tattoo vibrancy
Natural ingredients for sensitive skin
Subtle, pleasant scent
Effective for healing and maintenance
What We Don't Like
Somewhat gritty texture
Pricey compared to alternatives
#TOP 3

Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm

VRTB1
2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm Cover
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm for Before, During & Post Tattoo Safe, Natural Tattoo Aftercare Cream Moisturizing Lotion to Promote Skin Healing, Skin Moisturizer, (2oz,1 Pack)

Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm is a natural, chemical-free balm that helps to soothe and moisturize skin before, during, and after getting a tattoo. It helps to speed up the healing process and can also be used to brighten up older tattoos. The balm is easy to apply and comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

What We Like
Soothes irritation effectively
Moisturizes without greasiness
Enhances tattoo color vibrancy
Multi-purpose use for skin
Affordable compared to competitors
What We Don't Like
Inconvenient tin design
May not suit fresh tattoos

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit

TGK01
Tattoo Aftercare
3 Piece Set
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Includes Antimicrobial Soap, Balm, and Lotion, Tattoo Care for Color Enhancement + Quick Healing - Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Petroleum-Free, Tattoo Artist Gifts (3 Piece Set)

This 3-piece Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit includes Antimicrobial Soap, Balm, and Lotion to help maintain vibrant color and glow, provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antibacterial protection, and speed up the healing process. Customers have found the products to be gentle on sensitive skin, and have praised the soap for its ability to clean piercings thoroughly without burning. The balm and lotion have been found to keep tattoos looking fresh and new, and the kit has been praised for its ability to help with healing a tattoo long-term.

What We Like
Effective tattoo healing
Lightweight balm and lotion
Travel-friendly size
Minimized itching and scabbing
Quality ingredients
What We Don't Like
Some may find cheaper alternatives
#TOP 5

Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer

MDTR
Black
Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer Cover
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel & Moisturizer As Seen on Shark Tank - Premium Tattoo Supplies for New Tattoo Care, Anti-Itch - Tattoo Care Gel Made with Clean Ingredients

Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer is a fragrance-free product that uses clean ingredients like Sweet Almond and Argan oils to nourish new tattoos and prevent skin irritation and damage. The gel maximizes skin regeneration and health, providing fast soothing without harshness through the use of Aloe Vera, Allantoin, and Bisabolol. For a boost of moisture, it's recommended to follow with their Daily Lotion or Tattoo Balm.

What We Like
Soothing feel
Promotes healing
Non-greasy absorption
Improves color saturation
Easy application
What We Don't Like
Possible stickiness on tight clothes
One-way valve control issues
#TOP 6

H2Ocean Aquatat Tattoo Healing Ointment

90913-601
H2Ocean Aquatat Tattoo Healing Ointment Cover
H2Ocean Aquatat Tattoo Healing Ointment - Tattoo Aftercare Cream for Tattoo Supplies - Fragrance- & Dye-Free Tattoo Care Ointment with Vitamins A & B - 0.75 oz

H2Ocean Aquatat Ointment is designed to protect and heal your skin, creating a moisturizing barrier that shields against irritants while allowing your skin to breathe. It’s perfect for every stage of the tattoo process, ensuring your skin stays nourished before, during, and after getting inked. This ointment is free from alcohol, fragrances, and dyes, making it gentle on your skin and reducing the risk of irritation. Since 2001, H2Ocean has committed to providing all-natural sea salt-based aftercare products, ensuring you have reliable support for your tattoo healing journey.

What We Like
Quick healing time
Non-greasy and hydrating
Easy application
No scabbing
Portable packaging
What We Don't Like
Slightly greasy texture
May require multiple applications
#TOP 7

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm

HB-361-1OZ
white
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Cover
Hustle Butter Deluxe – Tattoo Butter for Before, During, and After the Tattoo Process – Lubricates and Moisturizes – 100% Vegan Replacement for Petroleum-Based Products – 1 oz

Hustle Butter Balm is a must-have tattoo aftercare essential with over a decade of experience in the market. It is the top choice for artists and clients alike due to its safety for new and older tattoos. Made from vegan and naturally derived ingredients, including Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, it nourishes and moisturizes the skin during the healing process. This balm, recommended by artists worldwide, ensures colors go in easier while not removing stencils or clogging tubes.

What We Like
Fast healing process
Reduces itching significantly
Smooth application and absorbs quickly
Natural and cruelty-free ingredients
Great for older tattoos
What We Don't Like
Can feel greasy initially
Pricey for small amount
#TOP 8

believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter

believa Tattoo
TBUT100
White
believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter Cover
believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter - Tattoo Balm for New & Older Tattoos - Vegan Healing Cream | 3.38 oz

believa Tattoo Butter is a top-rated aftercare balm from Europe, now available in the US. This vegan-friendly cream features a natural ingredient formula crafted by skin specialists, ensuring your skin stays healthy during the tattoo process. You benefit from its use at all stages: before getting inked for smooth skin, during the tattooing process for protection against clogging, and after for optimal healing. Applying a thin layer several times a day helps nourish your skin and maintain the vibrancy of your tattoos. Plus, it's free from harmful additives like petroleum and parabens, making it a safe choice for tattoo care.

What We Like
Amazing smell
Great texture
Natural ingredients
Moisturizes and brightens tattoos
Soothes itching
What We Don't Like
Contains petroleum-based PG
A bit greasy
#TOP 9

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion

AI-25
3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion Cover
After Inked Tattoo Aftercare Lotion - Tattoo Moisturizer, As Seen on INK MASTER, Tattoo Balm, Ink Hydration Tattoo Aftercare Kit, 3 Fluid oz Tube (1-Pack)

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion is the exclusive tattoo aftercare of the TV Show Ink Master. It's been used and recommended by world-renowned artists for over 15 years, a testament to the quality of our ink aftercare treatment. This moisturizer is clinically and dermatologist tested, non-allergenic, and non-irritant. It helps soothe itching due to dry skin, and it will not stick to your clothes. It is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and made to fit every lifestyle and skin type.

What We Like
Non-greasy formula
Promotes quick healing
Reduces itching significantly
Soothes irritation effectively
Pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
May seem a bit pricey
#TOP 10

Ebanel Tattoo Aftercare Set

Ebanel Tattoo Aftercare Set Cover
Ebanel Set of 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream and Tattoo Aftercare Balm, Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Pain Relief Burn Itch Cream, and 100% Natural Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment Tattoo Brightener Butter

Ebanel Tattoo Care Set includes Numb520 Cream, a lidocaine numbing cream that relieves pain, itching, and discomfort quickly. It is great for cuts, burns, insect bites, and more. The cream starts working in minutes and lasts for an hour. The set also features Ink Master Tattoo Balm, a natural ointment that promotes healing and protects tattoos from infections and fading. It helps with itching, pain, and swelling, making it a versatile healing balm for various skin issues.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Affordable for DIY treatments
Easy to apply
Quick numbing action
Multiple uses (tattoos, waxing)
What We Don't Like
Small jar size
Short duration of effect
Buying Guide Image

Choose the Best Tattoo Aftercare Creams for Your Needs

Introduction

If you’ve recently gotten a tattoo, you’ll want to take the time to properly care for it and ensure it looks its best for years to come. As part of that care, you’ll need to find the right tattoo aftercare cream to keep your new ink looking vibrant and healthy. With so many products on the market, it can be hard to know which is best for you and your tattoo. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of aftercare creams and how to choose the one that’s right for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tattoo Aftercare Cream

When it comes to choosing an aftercare cream for your tattoo, there are several key factors to consider.

Ingredients

The ingredients listed on the label of your aftercare cream are important. It’s best to avoid products with artificial dyes, fragrances, and preservatives, as these can irritate your skin. Look for products that are infused with natural ingredients that promote healing and hydration, such as aloe, vitamin E, and tea tree oil.

Texture

The texture of the cream is also important. Ideally, you want something that is lightweight and non-greasy, as these types of creams are easier to apply and won’t clog your pores. Look for a cream that is easily absorbed into the skin and doesn’t leave a sticky or greasy residue.

Price

Of course, price matters as well. Many tattoo aftercare creams are available in a range of prices, so it’s important to find one that fits into your budget while still providing the level of care and protection you need.

Benefits of Using Tattoo Aftercare Creams

Using a tattoo aftercare cream has several benefits. The right cream can help to keep your tattoo clean and protect it from infection and irritation. It can also help to keep your skin hydrated and reduce itching and flaking. In addition, many aftercare creams are designed to accelerate the healing process and help your tattoo to look its best.

Tips for Applying Tattoo Aftercare Cream

Applying your aftercare cream correctly is important for ensuring your tattoo looks its best. Here are a few tips for applying your cream:

  • Always wash your hands before applying the cream.
  • Apply a thin layer of the cream to your tattoo, making sure to cover the area completely.
  • Gently massage the cream into the skin.
  • Allow the cream to absorb into the skin before putting on clothing.
  • Reapply the cream several times a day, especially after showering or swimming.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tattoo aftercare cream is essential for ensuring your tattoo looks its best. When shopping for an aftercare cream, look for one that is infused with natural ingredients and is lightweight and non-greasy. You should also consider the price and make sure that it fits into your budget. With the right aftercare cream, you can ensure that your tattoo looks vibrant and healthy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you put Aquaphor on a new tattoo?

Yes, you can use Aquaphor on a new tattoo. It is recommended to apply a thin layer of Aquaphor healing ointment for the first 2-3 days, then switch to a regular fragrance-free lotion.

2. Why not to use Aquaphor on tattoos?

Aquaphor is not specifically designed for tattoo aftercare. Continuous use of Aquaphor could potentially clog pores and cause acne breakouts, especially for those with sensitive skin.

3. When should you not use Aquaphor on a tattoo?

It is generally advised to use Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days of tattoo aftercare. After that, you can switch to a regular fragrance-free lotion as recommended by your tattoo artist.

Editor's Notes

During our tattoo aftercare cream research, we found 48 tattoo aftercare cream products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 679,806 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tattoo aftercare creams list. We found that most customers choose tattoo aftercare creams with an average price of $13.78.

The tattoo aftercare creams are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tattoo aftercare creams, including Hustle Butter Deluxe, Mad Rabbit, Viking Revolution, Tattoo Goo, H2Ocean. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 550 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Tattoo Aftercare Creams Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Hustle Butter Deluxe Mad Rabbit Viking Revolution Tattoo Goo Mad Rabbit H2Ocean Hustle Butter Deluxe believa Tattoo After Inked Ebanel
Item Volume 150 Milliliters 1.7 Fluid Ounces 2 Fluid Ounces - 3.4 Fluid Ounces 0.75 Fluid Ounces 30 Milliliters 100 Milliliters 90 Milliliters -
Item dimensions L x W x H 2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 inches 1.26 x 2.4 x 2.44 inches 1.14 x 2.87 x 2.87 inches - 2.4 x 2.44 x 7.05 inches 4.8 x 2.6 x 1.1 inches 2 x 2 x 1.75 inches 2.76 x 2.76 x 1.57 inches 6 x 6 x 6 inches -
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult - Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult -
Special Feature - Hydrating - - Anti Aging Travel Size Travel Size, Natural Ingredients, Cruelty Free, Vegan - Enriched with Grape Seed Oil Clinically Proven
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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