Best Tattoo Aftercare Lotions of 2025

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

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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

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover #TOP 1
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover #TOP 2
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover #TOP 3
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Tattoo Aftercare Lotions

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 2

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

White
9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare - Daily Tattoo Lotion - Naturally Derived Vegan Cruelty Free - Everyday All Over Use and Moisturized 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.

What We Like
Rich, non-greasy formula
Long-lasting hydration
Natural ingredients
Pleasant scent
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
Premium price point

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 5

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 6

Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm

VRTB1OZ
1 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 (1oz, 1 Pack)

The Viking Tattoo Care Balm is designed to support your skin before, during, and after getting a tattoo. If your skin feels sore or red, this soothing lotion can help accelerate the healing process, allowing you to recover comfortably. It also works wonders on older tattoos by moisturizing and revitalizing their appearance. Made from natural ingredients, this balm is free from harsh chemicals and features a pleasant scent. You can even apply it before your tattoo session for a smoother application, making it a versatile choice for tattoo care.

What We Like
Effective for tattoo healing
Moisturizes without greasiness
Enhances tattoo color vibrancy
Dual-purpose for skin and cuticles
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Opening the tin can be tricky
#TOP 7

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 8

Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick by WONDER FAMILY

WONDER FAMILY
Fresh Vibrance
Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick by WONDER FAMILY Cover
Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick - Tattoo Moisturizer & Tattoo Lotion Aftercare Combined in Shea Butter Stick - Tattoo Aftercare Cream To Soothe Skin - Essential Tattoo Supplies

The Tattoo Balm Stick by WONDER FAMILY is your all-in-one solution for tattoo aftercare. This convenient balm combines the benefits of a tattoo cream and moisturizer, providing gentle hydration to your skin. It contains essential ingredients like Biotin and Hyaluronic acid, which help repair and enhance the natural glow of your tattooed skin. Additionally, it acts as a brightening cream, keeping your tattoos vibrant and fresh even after they have healed. Enhanced with soothing natural oils like shea butter and olive oil, this balm offers relief to your skin post-tattoo, making it a must-have for anyone looking to maintain their ink.

What We Like
Gorgeous packaging
Easy application
Moisturizes effectively
Natural ingredients
Lightweight, non-greasy
What We Don't Like
Slightly greasy residue
Smaller size for price
#TOP 9

H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion

TATTOOCREAM-2-5OZ
Black
H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Cover
H2Ocean Ocean Care Tattoo Aftercare Lotion 2.5ounces-Fragrance Free Tattoo Moisturizing Cream-For New & Old Tattoos-Heals & Revitalizes - Dye Free

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.

What We Like
Non-greasy feel
Quick healing for tattoos
Unscented formula
Moisturizes effectively
Light and refreshing
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Absorbs quickly, needs frequent application
#TOP 10

Saniderm Daily Tattoo Lotion

Saniderm Daily Tattoo Lotion Cover
Saniderm Daily Tattoo Lotion (12 oz) – Premium, Organic Long-term Skin Care and Tattoo Aftercare for Vibrant Tattoos – Moisturizing Lotion for Tattooed Skin

Saniderm Tattoo Lotion offers premium care for your tattooed skin with its natural and organic ingredients. Infused with soothing aloe vera, nourishing jojoba oil, and hydrating coconut oil, this lotion enhances the look of your tattoos while keeping your skin moisturized. The gentle formula is free from harsh chemicals, ensuring safety for your skin as it promotes healing and cellular turnover. With its ability to lock in moisture, this lotion helps maintain the vibrancy and clarity of your tattoos, preventing fading over time. Plus, the delightful scent of sweet orange and vanilla adds a refreshing touch to your daily routine.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Deeply moisturizing
Enhances tattoo vibrancy
Pleasant light scent
Lasts a long time
What We Don't Like
Relatively higher price
Buying Guide Image

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 342,929 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 $19.20.

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, Mad Rabbit, After Inked, Viking Revolution. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,011 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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 Lotions Comparison Table

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Brand Tattoo Goo Hustle Butter Deluxe Hustle Butter Deluxe Mad Rabbit After Inked Viking Revolution Mad Rabbit WONDER FAMILY H2Ocean Saniderm
Item Volume - 9 Fluid Ounces 150 Milliliters 1.7 Fluid Ounces 90 Milliliters 1 Fluid Ounces 3.4 Fluid Ounces 2.5 Fluid Ounces 2.5 Fluid Ounces 705 Milliliters
Age Range (Description) - Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult 18-65 Adult
Special Feature - Hydrating, Rejuvenating, Cruelty Free, Vegan - Hydrating Enriched with Grape Seed Oil - Anti Aging Natural oil blend, Tinted balm, standout, Biotin & hydration boost, Convenient stick design, Unique, pleasant fragrance Travel Size, Hypoallergenic, Unscented, Natural Ingredients Lightweight
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 6 x 6 x 6 inches 2.32 x 2.32 x 0.94 inches 2.4 x 2.44 x 7.05 inches - 2.13 x 1.38 x 5.38 inches 8.5 x 2.25 x 2.25 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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