Can You Use Vaseline on a Tattoo

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What does Vaseline do for tattoos

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What Is Vaseline?

Vaseline is typically used to soften and moisturize the skin or reduce friction for objects such as fabrics and razors. It’s also an ingredient in many cosmetic products, such as lipstick and baby oil.

Some people use petroleum jelly on tattoos after they’re fully healed to keep them moist and vibrant.

Can You Use Vaseline on a Tattoo

Can You Use Vaseline on a Tattoo

People often wonder if Vaseline is safe to use on tattoos. When applied to healed tattoos, petroleum jelly can help keep them moist and vibrant.

You should never apply petroleum jelly (or any other ointment) to a new tattoo or an open wound, as doing so could cause infection. Skin that has yet to heal fully lacks the necessary cells to defend itself against bacteria.

Why Is Vaseline Used?

Not only is Vaseline excellent for healing tattoos, but it also helps keep your skin moisturized.

Before applying Vaseline to a tattoo, you’ll want to clean the area with soap and water. The petroleum jelly will leave a greasy film on the surface of your skin, but this should wash off easily when you take a shower — remember to use soap.

You only need a thin layer of Vaseline, and you should apply it sparingly. You can always add more if needed, but petroleum jelly tends to be messy. It’s best if you use a clean finger or cotton swab to apply it instead of your bare hands.

Is There Anything Else I Should Know?

Vaseline is generally safe to use on tattoos, but using it indiscriminately may cause problems. The petroleum jelly can clog your pores and prevent oxygen from reaching your skin cells, making the area more susceptible to infection.

Also, avoid using Vaseline if you have any allergies or sensitivities to petroleum jelly or other ingredients found in Vaseline, such as mineral oil. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right product for your tattoo care routine, try a small patch test first (apply a small amount to about half of your tattoo and wait 24 hours).

Can You Use Any Kind of Vaseline on Tattoos?

There are several brands of petroleum jelly on the market, and not all of them are safe for use on tattoos. Some contain ingredients that could cause irritation or allergic reactions when applied to your skin.

Look for a petroleum jelly that’s designed specifically for medical purposes, such as Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Fresh and Pure Petroleum Jelly. These typically have fewer additives than standard petroleum jelly.

If you’re wondering whether a different kind of Vaseline is safe to use on tattoos, check the label to see if it’s pure petroleum jelly. If yes, you can use it without worrying about adverse side effects or allergic reactions.

What does Vaseline do for tattoos

What About Petroleum Jelly Alternatives?

Many tattoo artists recommend using special tattoo balms instead of Vaseline. These products are usually named for their unique ingredients, such as NewGel+Tattoo, which contains several moisturizers to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Even some lotions will work on tattoos, so use whatever you have on hand — remember that it’s best if you don’t apply any more than a thin coat of lotion.

Does Vaseline Cause Infections

As with any tattoo, you should cleanse the area before applying petroleum jelly to reduce your risk of infection. Suppose you prefer not to use Vaseline on tattoos due to these concerns about infections. In that case, other natural ingredients work as well or better than traditional moisturizers to keep skin soft and healthy.

How Many Days You Should Use Vaseline on Tattoos

Once the tattoo has fully healed, you can use Vaseline as often as needed. The petroleum jelly will keep your top layer of skin moisturized and healthy, so it doesn’t dry out and crack. You also won’t have to worry about allergic reactions or irritations with a tattoo that’s fully healed.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is the Best Way to Take Care of a New Tattoo?

Vaseline is the ideal way to moisturize your new tattoo without compromising its pigment if you don’t have any sensitivities or allergies. It works best if you don’t use too much — dab a little on the top layer of skin before bedtime.

Will Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly Cause a Tattoo to Fade?

No, petroleum jelly will not cause a tattoo to fade. But using too much could decrease the visibility of your tattoo’s colors if you have an oily complexion. Use a small dab when needed and apply lotion when you want to change your routine.

What Is the Best Way to Remove Vaseline From My Tattoo?

The best way to remove excess petroleum jelly is by washing your skin with soap and warm water. If you wait for it to wear off, the residue will eventually dissolve on its own without scrubbing.

How Do You Use Vaseline On A Tattoo Productively?

If you buy Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Fresh and Pure Petroleum Jelly, it’s essential to open the lid for it to work correctly. When you open the jar, you’ll see a small hole at the top of the lid. Make sure not to cover this hole while using the jelly for your tattoos. By leaving this opening uncovered, you’ll be able to pour out a small amount of the jelly with each use.

Conclusion

Vaseline works well for tattoos, but it’s important to use pure petroleum jelly and not a lotion. Also, be sure to follow the proper tattoo aftercare procedure, and you should enjoy a few problems with your new ink.

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