Caring for New Tattoos: Why Unscented Lotion is Best for Healing

Caring for New Tattoos: Why Unscented Lotion is Ideal

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience. But caring for the tattoo and allowing it to properly heal is just as important as the initial ink process. Using an unscented lotion is one of the best ways to moisturize and protect fresh tattoos as they heal. Keep reading to learn why fragrance-free lotions are recommended for new tattoos and how to choose the right products.

Why New Tattoos Need Moisturizing

Its crucial to keep new tattoos moisturized, especially in the first 4-6 weeks as the skin regenerates and the ink settles in. Skipping moisturizer can lead to several issues that damage the appearance and vibrancy of your tattoo, including:

• Flaking, peeling, and scabbing - Dry skin detaches from the tattoo
• Cracking and bleeding - Dehydration causes the skin to split open
• Scarring - The tattoo doesnt heal evenly due to moisture fluctuations
• Fading - Lack of moisture allows the ink to break down and fade faster
• Infection - Bacteria have an easier time entering damaged, dry skin

But its not enough to just slather on any old body lotion. The best moisturizers for tattoo aftercare are fragrance-free and specifically designed for sensitive skin.

Why Unscented Lotion is Best

Fragranced body lotions contain perfumes, dyes, and other unnecessary additives that can irritate fresh tattoos and disrupt the healing process. Heres why unscented lotions are ideal:

• Prevents infection - Fragrance chemicals can get into open wounds and encourage bacterial growth.
• Minimizes inflammation - Common allergens found in fragrances, like alcohols and parabens, can cause redness and swelling.
• Non-irritating - Fewer ingredients means less chance of a reaction with your unique skin chemistry.
• Locks in moisture - Simple, moisturizing bases like aloe vera gel absorb well without perfumes.
• Allows proper oxygenation - Thick creams and ointments can suffocate the tattoo.

In short, unscented products are least likely to disrupt the tattoo healing process in those critical early weeks. The simpler the lotion formula, the better.

Tips for Choosing an Unscented Lotion

With so many lotions on the market, how do you select the right aftercare moisturizer for your new ink? Here are a few tips:

• Check the label - Ensure the product is explicitly labeled unscented or fragrance-free.
• Avoid common irritants - Steer clear of alcohol, perfume, retinol, glycolic acid, etc.
• Select natural ingredients - Look for plant-based ingredients like aloe, shea butter, coconut oil, etc.
• Consider formulation - Light, fast-absorbing lotions are ideal for day use under clothing.
• Use sparingly - Apply a very thin layer, not thick globs that can smother the tattoo.
• Buy from tattoo shops - They often sell products designed specifically for tattoo aftercare.

Always check with your tattoo artist too - many will recommend or sell an unscented aftercare lotion they prefer for their clients.

Reviews of the Best Unscented Lotions for Tattoos

Wondering where to find quality unscented moisturizers? Here are some top options specifically formulated to nourish new ink:

Hustle Butter Deluxe

Hustle Butter is one of the most popular aftercare lotions used among professional tattoo artists. The sheer, lightweight formula absorbs rapidly without heavy oils that can smother fresh tattoos. Key features include:

• Fast-absorbing, non-greasy, minimal shine
• Vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free
• Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory ingredients
• Helps prevent scabbing and itching
• Light tropical scent fades quickly after application

This remains a staple aftercare product for new ink. While it does have a faint coconut fragrance, it dissipates within minutes of applying and wont bother most people.

Ora's Amazing Herbal Tattoo Salve

This natural, herbal salve contains skin-nourishing oils and botanicals like calendula, coconut oil, olive oil, comfrey leaf, plantain, chickweed, beeswax and vitamin E. Benefits include:

• All-natural, vegan, and organic
• Soothes irritated or inflamed skin
• Infused with calming chamomile
• Prevents scabbing and itching
• No petroleum, lanolin or preservatives

It has a thicker consistency than lotions, allowing it to create a protective barrier over the tattoo. The earthy herbal scent dissipates quickly after application.

After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion

This soothing, fragrance-free lotion contains coconut milk, coconut oil, shea butter, aloe, and olive oil to deeply hydrate without clogging pores. Key features:

• Natural plant-based ingredients
• Gluten-free, paraben-free, vegan
• Helps repair damaged skin
• Non-greasy formula
• Prevents scabbing and itching

Designed by tattoo artists, this aftercare lotion is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. It absorbs fully without leaving any oily residue.

Redemption Tattoo Lubricant

This soothing, fragrance-free lotion contains coconut milk, coconut oil, shea butter, aloe, and olive oil to deeply hydrate without clogging pores. Key features:

• Natural plant-based ingredients
• Gluten-free, paraben-free, vegan
• Helps repair damaged skin
• Non-greasy formula
• Prevents scabbing and itching

Designed by tattoo artists, this aftercare lotion is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. It absorbs fully without leaving any oily residue.

Lubriderm Daily Moisture Unscented Lotion

For those wanting an affordable drugstore option, Lubriderm Daily Moisture unscented lotion is a great pick. Highlights include:

• Light, fast-absorbing texture
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free, dye-free, and gentle
• Contains moisturizing mineral oil and glycerin

This budget-friendly lotion provides safe, simple moisturization for new tattoos. The formula is mild enough for daily use on all skin types.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Unscented Lotion

Another good pharmacy option is Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Unscented Lotion. Some benefits include:

• Includes soothing colloidal oatmeal
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Fragrance-free and dye-free
• Locks in moisture for 24 hours

Aveeno uses a natural colloidal oatmeal formula ideal for minimizing irritation. And the pricepoint is budget-friendly making it a great drugstore choice.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

For severely dry, cracked, or peeling tattoo skin, Aquaphor Healing Ointment can provide heavy-duty relief. Benefits include:

• Seals in moisture to heal extremely dry skin
• Creates a protective barrier allowing skin to regenerate
• Helps prevent flaking, cracking and infection
• Fragrance-free, dye-free, and preservative-free
• Safe for sensitive skin

Just use a thin layer since thick ointments can sometimes block oxygen from reaching the tattoo. But its great for severely dry skin needing intense overnight healing.

Caring for a Tattoo Over its Lifetime

The initial month or two when a tattoo is brand new require the most diligent aftercare. But dont neglect moisturizing even after it heals fully. Ongoing care is essential for keeping your tattoo looking vibrant and preventing premature fading.

After the First Month

For the first 4-6 weeks, stick to fragrance-free moisturizers to allow the delicate new tattoo to heal safely. After that initial period, you can be a bit more flexible if your skin tolerates it:

• Unscented lotions are still best for moisture without irritation.
• If using scented lotions, choose very mild ones and avoid fruity or citrus fragrances.
• Apply only a thin layer to moisturize, not slather on thick globs.
• Use an unscented sunscreen on tattooed areas before sun exposure.

If your skin becomes red, flaky, irritated, or itchy after using a particular product, discontinue use. Stick to the most hypoallergenic moisturizers if you have very sensitive skin.

Moisturize Daily

Once fully healed, you should still apply unscented moisturizer once a day to nourish your tattooed skin and help maintain a sharp look:

• Tattoos can dry out faster than non-tattooed skin.
• Lack of moisture allows ink to fade more quickly.
• Daily moisturizing helps keep colors vivid.
• It prevents common issues like flaking, blurring, and scabbing.

Choose a lightweight, gentle moisturizer that absorbs fully without leaving residue. Apply it at the end of your daily skin care routine.

Watch for Signs of Dryness

Pay attention to your tattooed skin and watch for any dryness, flaking, cracking, or scabbing which may indicate inadequate moisture. Signs include:

• Visibility of fine lines in the tattoo
• Tight, rough patches of skin
• Itchy flaky skin around or on top of the tattoo
• Faded look to the colors

If you notice dryness setting in, increase moisturizer usage. Consider using a thicker ointment like Aquaphor on extremely dry areas until they improve.

Protect Tattoos from Sun Damage

Just as the sun causes faster aging and dark spots on the rest of our skin, UV rays can also fade your tatted areas more quickly. To minimize sun damage:

• Use a broad spectrum, unscented sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if outdoors.
• Wear protective clothing over tattooed areas.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.

Regular sunscreen usage and hydration will keep your tattoo artwork looking fresher longer.

How to Apply Lotion to a Healing Tattoo

Once youve chosen an appropriate unscented lotion, apply it correctly so the tattoo heals smoothly. Here are some tips:

• Wash hands thoroughly before application to prevent bacteria transfer.
• Use a pea-size amount - excessive lotion can block oxygen.
• Gently smooth in a thin layer - dont rub vigorously over tender skin.
• Avoid touching or picking at scabs as this can pull out ink and cause scarring.
• Let moisture fully absorb before clothes create friction against it.
• Apply twice daily for the first month, then once a day after initial healing.

Moisturize whenever the tattooed area feels dry or tight. But be careful not to over-moisturize if your skin is naturally very oily.

The Takeaway

Caring for a new tattoo is just as imperative as the tattooing process itself when it comes to creating a beautiful, lasting piece of body art. Skipping proper aftercare can quickly ruin your new ink. Using an unscented lotion without heavy fragrances or chemicals is ideal for nourishing fresh tattoos safely.

Look for moisturizers specifically designed for tattoo aftercare that contain natural, hydrating ingredients. Apply a thin layer multiple times daily in the first month, then maintain daily moisture to prevent fading and drying out. With proper moisturizing, your new tattoo will heal smoothly and stay vibrant for years to come.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.