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Best Tattoo Aftercare Lotions of 2026

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Lisa Bechard

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Tattoo aftercare lotions are essential in maintaining the quality of a newly inked tattoo. These lotions are specially formulated to moisturize and protect the tattooed area, promoting healing and preventing infections. They are made with natural ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, which provide hydration and nourishment to the skin. Some aftercare lotions also contain vitamins and minerals that aid in skin cell regeneration, ensuring a vibrant and long-lasting tattoo. It is important to choose a high-quality aftercare lotion that suits your skin type and needs to ensure optimal healing and preservation of your tattoo.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Tattoo Aftercare Lotions

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Includes Antimicrobial Soap, Balm, and Lotion, Tattoo Care for Color Enhancement + Quick Healing - 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.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective healing support
  • Enhances tattoo color and brightness
  • Non-greasy, lightweight balm
  • Soothes itching and irritation
  • Long-lasting, good value

What We Don't Like

  • Challenging packaging for balm
  • Occasional delivery issues

What Customers Say

"As someone anxious about aftercare for my first tattoo, I appreciated the peace of mind and clear instructions this kit provided. The products have lasted well, and my skin felt consistently hydrated and comfortable throughout the healing process. The lotion especially was a relief when my tattoo got itchy. I’d say it’s a great buy for both value and convenience."

"I’ve used other products like Aquaphor before, but this kit is on a different level. It really helped my tattoo heal quickly without any irritation, and the colors look incredibly vibrant. My skin stayed protected and felt new for much longer. I’m definitely sticking with this aftercare kit for all future tattoos."

"I’ve been using the soap and balm for my new ink, and both have been fantastic for healing and maintenance. The balm is light and scentless—never greasy or heavy. The soap has a mild, clean scent and does the job without being overly foamy. Everything you need for proper tattoo aftercare is in this kit."

#TOP 2

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare - Daily Moisturizing Lotion - Naturally Derived Vegan Cruelty Free - Everyday All Over Use for Tattoos - 9 fl oz

Hustle Butter Lotion is your go-to for daily tattoo care. This lotion deeply hydrates your skin, leaving it soft and smooth, rejuvenating your tattoos and moisturizing your skin. You can use it all over your body, not just on tattoos, for glowing and moisturized skin. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients like Shea Butter, Aloe, and Jojoba Seed Oil, this lotion replenishes your skin's moisture. The tropical fragrance adds a vacation vibe to your skincare routine. With Hustle Butter Lotion, your tattoos will always look fresh and vibrant.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Keeps tattoos vibrant
  • Quick absorption
  • Gentle for sensitive skin
  • Effective healing support

What We Don't Like

  • Unusual scent for some
  • Pump may be slow initially

What Customers Say

"I've been using this lotion every day since I got my latest tattoo, and it keeps my skin incredibly hydrated and my tattoo looking almost brand new, even a year later. The formula is heavier than most lotions, but that's exactly what my mature skin needs, especially living in a dry climate. It takes a minute to rub in, but it stays put and keeps my hands soft all night. Honestly, it's not just great for tattoos—it's become my go-to moisturizer."

"My tattoo artist recommended this brand, and I'm so glad I tried it. It absorbs quickly, doesn't leave any sticky residue, and makes my tattoos noticeably brighter. I have pretty sensitive skin, but I've never had a reaction to this lotion. At first the scent was a bit different, but now I've grown to like it. The bottle lasted me months with daily use, totally worth it."

"I love how this lotion heals my new tattoos and keeps my older ones looking clear and defined. The pump design is super convenient and the coconut smell is pleasant—though I know not everyone will love it. I even use it on scars and would definitely buy it again."

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion Cover

After Inked Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Moisturizing Balm for Inked Skin, Featured on Ink Master, Hydrating Skin Nourishment Cream with Grape Seed Oil, Gentle Daily Tattoo Maintenance, 3oz 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.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Deep hydration
  • Non-greasy texture
  • Reduces itching
  • Fast absorption
  • Enhances tattoo vibrancy

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat pricey

What Customers Say

"As someone who struggled with itchiness and greasy ointments during the healing process, I was amazed by how this product kept my skin hydrated without any greasy residue. My tattoos healed faster, looked brighter, and the itchy phase was almost nonexistent. The price seemed a bit high, but the results made it absolutely worthwhile."

"I switched to this lotion from another brand and couldn't be happier. It absorbs quickly, leaves no sticky feeling, and makes both my new and old tattoos look fantastic. The light scent and deep hydration are huge pluses for me. It's a bit expensive, but I believe it's worth every penny to keep my tattoos looking their best."

"After using several aftercare products, I found this lotion to be a game changer. The texture is perfect—not too thick or greasy—and it soothes freshly inked skin immediately. My tattoos heal faster, stay vibrant, and my sensitive skin has had no issues with breakouts or irritation. I highly recommend this for anyone serious about tattoo aftercare."

#TOP 4

H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover

H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion – Fragrance & Dye Free Tattoo Moisturizing Cream – Water-Based Vegan Skin Care for New & Old Tattoos – Heals, Revitalizes & Hydrates Tattooed Skin, 2.5oz

H2Ocean Tattoo Aftercare Lotion is a water-based unscented lotion that provides extreme healing and soothing for both new and existing tattoos. It effectively reduces redness and swelling of new tattoos, while also moisturizing and nourishing old tattoos. The lotion is alcohol, fragrance, and dye-free, ensuring that it won't dry out your skin or cause irritation. The key ingredient in this product is nutrient-rich sea salt from the Red Sea, which contains over 82 trace minerals essential for healing. H2Ocean, the original producer of sea salt-based tattoo and piercing aftercare products, has been committed to providing all-natural solutions since 2001. Made in the USA, this lotion is the perfect choice for tattoo enthusiasts looking for a reliable and effective aftercare solution.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Non-greasy formula
  • Speeds tattoo healing
  • Maintains tattoo vibrancy
  • Fresh or unscented aroma
  • Easy absorption

What We Don't Like

  • Runs out quickly
  • Higher price than alternatives

What Customers Say

"I’ve tried countless tattoo lotions, but this one is truly the best for me. It absorbs quickly, never feels greasy, and is unscented, so I don’t have to worry about any odd smells. My tattoos heal fast and keep their color really well. I even use it on my face without breakouts! This is the only aftercare lotion I’ll use now."

"After my local tattoo shop gave me a sample, I was hooked. It’s thick enough to protect fresh ink but not greasy at all. I stick with it for the first couple of weeks of healing, then switch to a regular fragrance-free lotion. I highly recommend it as a first step in aftercare!"

"I care a lot about my tattoo’s brightness, and this lotion really helps. People always comment on how vibrant my tattoos look. It feels great on my skin, and I’m sticking with it over cheaper options because I want to keep my ink looking its best."

#TOP 5

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

  • Mad Rabbit
  • MR-P
  • Vanilla Coconut
  • 1 Count (Pack of 1)
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-enhancing and reviving product for both old and new tattoos. It is made with natural ingredients and is petroleum free. It helps to protect and moisturize skin, while enhancing the vibrancy of the ink. It is also great for sensitive skin and is Inked Magazine's preferred tattoo aftercare brand.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective tattoo healing
  • No skin irritation
  • Natural, pleasant scent
  • Long-lasting moisturization
  • Makes tattoos look vibrant

What We Don't Like

  • Small product size
  • Higher price point

What Customers Say

"I've tried a lot of products for my tattoos, but this one stands out for keeping my new ink clean without any irritation. The ointment not only smells great but also seems to help with healing and maintaining color on older tattoos. My only minor gripe is that the product runs a bit small for what you pay, but I’d still recommend it."

"As someone with both fresh and older tattoos, I'm impressed by how hydrating and soothing this balm is. There’s no stickiness or greasiness, and it has a wonderful, natural scent. I plan to keep using it as I add more tattoos—plus, the little tin it comes in is a nice touch!"

"After a lot of research, I decided to try this balm and I’m glad I did. The vanilla coconut scent is neutral and subtle, and the formula leaves my skin well-moisturized with no allergic reactions. My tattoos look more vibrant and healthy, and I love that it works even if I don’t apply it daily."

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm

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.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Fast tattoo healing
  • Rich, non-greasy texture
  • Vibrant color enhancement
  • Pleasant subtle scent
  • Natural vegan ingredients

What We Don't Like

  • Small jar size
  • Slightly greasy at first

What Customers Say

"I've tested many tattoo aftercare options, but Hustle Butter Deluxe has become essential to my routine. The texture is smooth and non-greasy, and my tattoos heal noticeably faster with less redness and sharper colors. Even old tattoos look revived and vibrant. The subtle scent is great, and I appreciate the vegan, clean ingredients. This product is now a permanent part of my tattoo care process."

"When my son got his first tattoo, I immediately got him a jar of Hustle Butter. It smells amazing, keeps skin soft and moisturized, and isn’t sticky at all. A little bit really goes a long way and it melts nicely into the skin. It lasts much longer than regular lotion does."

"I started using Hustle Butter after my artist recommended it, and I'm never looking back. It soothes my fresh tattoos, relieves itching, and keeps colors bold and crisp. Application is easy and I only need to use it twice a day. This is hands down my go-to for tattoo aftercare."

#TOP 7

LiftAura Tattoo Aftercare Moisturizer 3.4 oz

  • LiftAura
LiftAura Tattoo Aftercare Moisturizer 3.4 oz Cover

LiftAura Tattoo Aftercare Moisturizer – Daily Hydrating Lotion with Clean Ingredients, Gentle Care for Tattooed Skin, 3.4 oz Tube

The LiftAura Tattoo Moisturizer is designed to support your skin’s healing process by keeping it nourished and well-hydrated, which is essential for proper recovery after getting a tattoo. It also offers a calming effect to reduce any discomfort you might experience, helping your skin feel more comfortable. This lotion keeps your tattooed skin feeling fresh and clean, so you can enjoy a healthy look every day. Additionally, it helps preserve the brightness and sharpness of your tattoo colors, ensuring your artwork stays vibrant for longer. Using this moisturizer can make tattoo aftercare easier and more effective.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Brightens tattoo appearance
  • Non-greasy formula
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Possible mild skin irritation

What Customers Say

"I've got extremely sensitive skin, but this lotion never irritates me. It's not greasy, has no strong smell, and really helps my tattoos look bright and fresh. After the initial healing, it's fantastic for keeping my ink moisturized."

"Every time I use this after a shower, my tattoos—new and old—look noticeably brighter for days. It's become my go-to for all nine of my tattoos."

"Compared to other lotions like Dermasil or Aquaphor, this is thinner and absorbs much better. Plus, it's affordable and made in South Korea, which I trust for skincare. Wish I'd found it sooner after so many tattoos!"

#TOP 8

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm

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.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Fast tattoo healing
  • Non-greasy formula
  • Vegan and petroleum-free
  • Revives old tattoos
  • Light, pleasant scent

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional packaging issues

What Customers Say

"I've tried many tattoo aftercare products, but Hustle Butter stands out for its soothing, non-greasy texture and how quickly it helps my tattoos heal. I love how it keeps my skin hydrated without any stickiness, and my tattoos always look vibrant and smooth. The all-natural ingredients and great scent make it a pleasure to use, and a little goes a long way. I've even started using it on older tattoos, and it seriously brings the colors back to life. For anyone who wants fast healing and bold-looking tattoos, this balm is a must."

"As someone with sensitive, thin skin, I usually struggle with tattoo healing, but this balm was a game changer. My latest tattoo began healing almost immediately, with no redness or itching. Even my stubborn, months-old tattoo finally healed and smoothed out after using Hustle Butter. The scent is soft and clean, and a small amount lasts all day. After trying countless products, I can confidently say I won't use anything else!"

"I'm really impressed with Hustle Butter—the vegan, petroleum-free formula is gentle and absorbs quickly without leaving my skin greasy. It keeps my tattoos looking bright and healthy, and even makes my older ink look more vibrant. The light coconut scent is a nice touch, and the large tub lasts a long time. I definitely recommend it for anyone serious about tattoo care."

#TOP 9

Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer

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.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Soothes and cools fresh tattoos
  • Reduces itching and peeling
  • Absorbs well, non-greasy
  • No scent, skin sensitive ingredients
  • Keeps ink vibrant

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging dispenses too much product
  • Can feel sticky under tight clothes

What Customers Say

"I’ve tried many aftercare products for my tattoos, but this is by far the best for soothing and healing. After using it on my latest tattoo, I experienced zero peeling and much less itching than with Aquaphor. The product has a pleasant scent and is gentle on my sensitive skin. I also recommend their wash and balm for a complete aftercare routine."

"After switching from Aquaphor, I found this gel to be cooling, easy to apply, and highly effective at keeping my tattoo moisturized. It absorbs quickly, leaves almost no sticky feeling, and my tattoos no longer stick to my clothes. I now use it for all my new ink and even for sunburns. I just wish the bottle was a bit bigger!"

"While the product moisturizes well and gives my tattoo a nice shine, I find the packaging frustrating. It’s hard to control how much comes out, and it can be wasteful, especially for small tattoos. Also, if the area is under tight clothing, it can feel sticky. I’d use it again if the dispenser improves."

#TOP 10

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

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.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High-quality natural ingredients
  • No skin irritation
  • Enhances tattoo color and look
  • Long-lasting moisturization
  • Pleasant, subtle scent

What We Don't Like

  • Small product size
  • Higher price point

What Customers Say

"I've tried several products, but this soap and balm combo keeps my new tattoos clean without any irritation, and the ointment smells great and lasts. It really helps with healing and makes my old tattoos look brighter. My only gripe is that the product sizes are a bit small for what you pay."

"After plenty of research, I settled on this balm because tattoo artists and dermatologists all seemed to recommend it. I love the vanilla coconut scent—it's neutral and not overpowering. My skin stays hydrated and healthy, and I've never had an allergic reaction. It does come out a bit thick, but warming it between my fingers makes application a breeze."

"This balm keeps my tattoos looking vibrant all day without being greasy or sticky. The natural smell is amazing, and I appreciate that it just feels moisturized, not shiny or heavy. I've used it on both fresh and older tattoos, and the results are always impressive."

Tattoo Aftercare Lotions Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit

#TOP 2 Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

#TOP 3 After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion Cover

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion

#TOP 4 H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover

H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

#TOP 5 Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

#TOP 6 Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Cover

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm

#TOP 7 LiftAura Tattoo Aftercare Moisturizer 3.4 oz Cover

LiftAura Tattoo Aftercare Moisturizer 3.4 oz

#TOP 8 Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm

#TOP 9 Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer Cover

Mad Rabbit Repair Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel and Moisturizer

#TOP 10 Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

Brand Tattoo Goo Hustle Butter Deluxe After Inked H2Ocean Mad Rabbit Hustle Butter Deluxe LiftAura Hustle Butter Deluxe Mad Rabbit Mad Rabbit
Item Volume - 9 Fluid Ounces 90 Milliliters 2.5 Fluid Ounces 1.7 Fluid Ounces 30 Milliliters 3.38 Fluid Ounces 150 Milliliters 3.4 Fluid Ounces 1.7 Fluid Ounces
Age Range (Description) - Adult Adult 18-65 Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult
Special Feature - Cruelty Free, Hydrating, Rejuvenating, Vegan Enriched with Grape Seed Oil, Fragrance Free, Hypoallergenic, Travel Size, Vegan Hypoallergenic, Natural Ingredients, Travel Size, Unscented Clean Ingredients Cruelty Free, Natural Ingredients, Travel Size, Vegan Travel Size Travel Size Anti Aging -
Item dimensions L x W x H - - 6 x 6 x 6 inches 2.13 x 1.38 x 5.38 inches 1.26 x 2.4 x 2.44 inches 2 x 2 x 1.75 inches 1.85 x 1.85 x 2.68 inches 2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 inches 2.4 x 2.44 x 7.05 inches 1.26 x 2.4 x 2.44 inches
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.5
9.4
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.0
8.8
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you use any lotion for tattoo aftercare?

While tattoo artists often recommend Aquaphor for tattoo aftercare due to its hydrating properties, you can also use other unscented moisturizing ointments that contain petrolatum and lanolin. These ingredients help keep the tattooed skin moisturized and promote healing.

2. Does Aquaphor make tattoos fade?

There is no official study on whether Aquaphor can remove or fade tattoo ink. Some tattoo artists claim that they have not seen ink loss in clients who use Aquaphor for aftercare. However, it is best to take these claims with a grain of salt and consider individual experiences.

3. When should you start putting lotion on a new tattoo?

According to tattoo artists, you should start applying lotion to a new tattoo once it starts to dry. It is important to wait until the ink is no longer wet to avoid any potential smudging or irritation.

4. Why not to use Aquaphor on tattoos?

Aquaphor is not specifically formulated for tattoo aftercare. Continuous use of Aquaphor on tattoos may lead to clogged pores and potential acne breakouts, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. It is important to choose products designed specifically for tattoo aftercare to ensure proper healing and minimize any potential skin issues.

Editor's Notes

During our tattoo aftercare lotion research, we found 48 tattoo aftercare lotion products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 437,815 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tattoo aftercare lotions list. We found that most customers choose tattoo aftercare lotions with an average price of $18.01.

The tattoo aftercare lotions are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tattoo aftercare lotions, including Tattoo Goo, Hustle Butter Deluxe, After Inked, H2Ocean, Mad Rabbit. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,200 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by

Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard

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.