It has long been common for tattoo enthusiasts applying Vaseline on tattoos. However, recently, several tattoo artists and dermatologists have revealed that Vaseline application on tattoos may do more harm than good. For a long time, Vaseline has been considered to be good for the skin; however, the guide to skin care after a tattoo session has evolved and it’s time for a change in the products too.
If you are about to or have recently gotten inked, and are concerned about whether to apply Vaseline on your tattoo, keep reading to discover why it’s recommended and whether it’s actually helpful in healing your fresh tattoo wounds. Scroll down to the article!
In This Article
Is Vaseline Good For Tattoos?
Shutterstock
Vaseline is a petroleum-based product that is used in skin care to retain the skin’s natural moisture content during dry seasons. People with a dry skin type usually find the product extremely moisturizing and healing for their irritated skin.
But here’s the catch, your tattoo is a fresh wound and oxygenated air is needed for proper wound healing. As logical as it may sound to keep your tattoo wound covered, it is essential for it to remain in the open air for healthy tattoo healing process and settling in of the ink.
So, a straightforward answer to the question, “Is petroleum jelly good for tattoos?” is, no, it’s not. In fact, Vaseline is bad for your tattoos in the sense that it may hinder the healing process. Your tattoo heals best when it’s in the open with proper aftercare, which, contrary to popular opinion, does not include Vaseline. Still doubtful about whether Vaseline is necessarily good for healing your tattoo, scroll down to know more.
Key Takeaways
- Vaseline effectively chokes the skin, preventing the skin from breathing, which leads to delayed healing.
- Tattoo artists use Vaseline during the tattoo session for ease of work.
- Vaseline may help in lubricating, moisturizing, and protecting the vibrancy of the tattooed skin after it has completely healed.
- Some alternatives to Vaseline include aloe vera, coconut oil, and unscented lotions.
Can You Put Vaseline On A New Tattoo?
Vaseline petroleum jelly covers the skin surface, trapping the blood, plasma, and leaking ink from being released and preventing the tattoo wound from breathing. This is not an ideal condition for healthy tattoo healing, making Vaseline not a great option for tattoo aftercare.
When you come back from a tattoo studio, remove your bandaid and wipe off any petroleum-based ointment using a mild soap and water. You can apply a tattoo balm or a light moisturizing ointment without any artificial fragrances to prevent dry skin and help it heal.
However, do note that this entirely depends on the aftercare steps taken by the tattoo studio. Some studios clean the new tattoo before applying a special tattoo derm bandage. This is meant to be left on the skin for up to 7 days to reduce any chances of infection.
So, you should not apply vaseline to a new tattoo but what about before tattooing? Check out the next section to find out.
Should It Be Used Before Or After Getting A Tattoo?
Applying Vaseline or any petrolatum product before a tattoo session is not recommended. It sits on the top of your skin and makes it slippery, which in turn makes it very difficult to control the needle. This can prevent the proper deposition of ink into the skin wound, possibly leading to clogged pores.
Considering the fact that applying Vaseline or petroleum jelly on freshly tattooed skin blocks the supply of oxygen, it is not advisable to use even after a tattoo session. You should ask your licensed tattoo artist for a comprehensive guide to tattoo aftercare to know what you can actually use. Contrarily, Vaseline may be used after the tattoo is completely healed, which may take about 3-4 months, for efficient hydration and moisturization. To know more about other uses of Vaseline for tattoos, move to the next section.
Uses Of Vaseline During Tattooing
Although Vaseline is no longer recommended for the tattoo aftercare routine, there are still some effective applications of Vaseline during the tattoo sessions.
1. Lubrication
Shutterstock
The greasy texture of Vaseline makes it an effective lubricant, particularly beneficial for individuals with very dry skin. Using it during the session can help keep the skin taut, which helps minimize friction during the tattooing process, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience for the person getting the tattoo.
2. Bleeding Control
During the tattooing process, Vaseline plays a crucial role in bleeding control. It facilitates easy removal of blood, providing the tattoo artist with a clear and non-messy working canvas. It also enhances visibility and allows for precise and intricate tattoo lines.
3. Barrier Provision
Acting as a protective barrier between the skin and the needle, Vaseline helps prevent discomfort and minimizes potential damage to the skin. By reducing the risk of extreme skin irritation and ensuring a less painful experience for the person getting the tattoo, it creates a smoother tattooing process.
4. Ink Removal
Shutterstock
Vaseline comes in handy as it facilitates the removal of excess ink during the tattooing session. In the event of ink smudging or accumulation, it aids in quick and easy cleanup, leading to a clean tattoo that is high-quality.
5. Protection
It forms a moisture-rich layer and acts as a protective shield, preventing bacteria and other microbes from damaging or infecting the freshly tattooed skin. It can provide protection for sensitive skin areas with a high risk of infection ( 1 ).
6. Vibrancy Retention
Shutterstock
It may play an important role in maintaining the vibrancy of a tattoo. By boosting shine and preserving the color intensity of the ink, Vaseline contributes to the long-term visual appeal of the tattoo, ensuring that it remains vivid and eye-catching for a long time.
Now you know that Vaseline can be used for various purposes, find out what tattoo artists use it for. Read the next section to know.
Why Do Tattoo Artists Use Vaseline?
Many tattoo artists apply Vaseline multiple times during the tattoo session as it provides lubrication to prevent excess friction and helps wipe off extra tattoo ink. They usually wipe it off at the end of the session and apply fresh product before putting on the band-aid to contain the blood, plasma, and ink from the wound.
However, you are supposed to take off the wrap after a week, clean the tattoo with a mild antibacterial soap and lukewarm water to remove any product and secretions, and apply a light moisturizing ointment or antibiotic cream before leaving it open.
Since we are all caught up regarding when to use Vaseline and when to avoid it, there remains the question of alternatives to Vaseline that may work better. Read below to learn about them and how they can help better than petroleum jelly.
What Can You Use Instead Of Vaseline For A Tattoo?
Vaseline has been a part of the guide to skin care during tattooing and the subsequent aftercare period for a long time. However, with evolving knowledge in the field of dermatology, there is a growing consensus that Vaseline may not be the optimal choice for tattoos. So, what can you apply? Can you put aloe on a tattoo ? Maybe. There are also other alternatives available that offer similar benefits without the potential drawbacks of clogged pores or suffocating the tattooed skin, which are as follows.
Note: It is not recommended to apply any lotion to a brand-new tattoo. You need to wait for at least a week just to be safe.
1. Aloe Vera
Shutterstock
For lubricating the skin to ease the tattooing process, aloe vera gel is a fantastic option. Its anti-inflammatory properties not only soothes the skin but also adds moisture, reducing both friction and discomfort ( 2 ).
Mercedes, a YouTuber, shares her experience of getting and healing a tattoo in her video. She believes that you do not have to spend expensive aftercare and you can heal your tattoos with aloe vera. She says, “Aloe vera not only helps soothe the skin but if you’re in pain, sore or itchy it literally helps soothe that and you feel so much better ( i ).”
2. Aquaphor
Using aquaphor for tattoos is a tried-and-tested favorite among tattoo artists. Aquaphor helps safeguard against irritation and creates a barrier, ensuring your tattoo is protected and moisturized.
3. Coconut Oil
Shutterstock
Putting coconut oil on tattoo not only lubricates the area but also promotes healing. It is a natural alternative that also contains antibacterial properties ( 3 ). It ensures your tattoo experience is smooth and your skin is all set for recovery.
4. Tattoo-Specific Aftercare Creams
Tattoo aftercare is extremely important for a smooth healing process. There are creams specially formulated to aid and promote faster healing. Look for an aftercare ointment with ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, panthenol, and vitamins A and D ( 4 ) ( 5 ).
5. Unscented Lotions
A light and fragrance-free moisturizer or lotion can be a great option to provide the tattooed area with the required nourishment, which is essential for healthy healing. For example, eucerin for tattoos is also recommended, as it offers gentle hydration without irritating the sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Vaseline is no longer considered a good option for healthy healing of your beautiful body art. While tattoo artists use it for lubrication and blood control during the tattoo session, and it provides benefits like protection and moisturization, Vaseline covers the skin completely and does not allow it to breathe. This ultimately leads to delayed healing and may increase the risk of ending up with an infected tattoo. Instead of Vaseline, you may use alternatives such as aloe vera, coconut oil, or a moisturizing ointment that is free from any artificial fragrance or irritants, particularly if you have sensitive skin. Moreover, you may use Vaseline after your tattoo has completely healed to enhance its shine and vibrancy and make it more aesthetically pleasing. Finally, make sure to get your tattoo from professional artists and follow their aftercare instructions for quick skin healing
Is Vaseline good for tattoos when showering?
Quick showers after getting a tattoo are absolutely fine and do not need a layer of cream to protect from harm. However, the water should be lukewarm and you should not be soaking the fresh ink in water.
Are other moisturizing creams as good as Vaseline?
Yes, there are many light moisturizing creams that are non-irritating and unscented and work better than Vaseline in healing the tattoo.
Can I put Vaseline on my tattoo for swimming?
During the healing stage, you should avoid swimming for some time. After your tattoo has healed, it may not be necessary to apply Vaseline unless you are using a public pool.
Illustration: Can You Use Vaseline On Tattoo: A Complete Guide
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Personal Experience: Source
StyleCraze’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.
References
- Petrolatum: Barrier repair and antimicrobial responses underlying this ”inert” moisturizer https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26431582/
- The effect of aloe vera clinical trials on prevention and healing of skin wound: A systematic review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6330525/
- Comparison of antibacterial efficacy of coconut oil and chlorhexidine on Streptococcus mutans: An in vivo study https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5109859/
- The role of vitamin D on the wound healing process: A case series https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10075270/
- Vitamin A and wound healing https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31697447/
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.
Nothing compares to the peace and serenity of waking through a forest all by yourself. It is almost like the trees and the wind speak to you, and you begin to walk closer to nature leaving the stress of the concrete jungle behind. Even in the world of body art, forest tattoos are very popular among nature lovers and they also carry a deep meaning. Be it the dense pine forest, falls in the deciduous forests, or wild animals, your tattoo can depict your personality better than anything else. If you would like to get a forest tattoo done, we have some creative unique ideas that will surely inspire you for your next inking. Keep reading!
In This Article
Forest Tattoo Meaning
Forest tattoos symbolize a connection between nature and our life. It helps us connect to the serenity that most of us struggle to find in our lives. Forest body arts capture the beauty of undisturbed nature and remind you to stay close to it. The tattoos can be drawn using diverse styles and each design can be customized to add more meaning to it. They also signify strength, fertility, and nourishment. Some even believe it is a sign of spirituality, immortality, and freedom. Forests also symbolize growth and transformation. So, forest tattoos can inspire individuals to overcome life’s challenges to grow and develop in life. Forests withstand strong winds, wildfires, and other natural disasters. So, they also represent endurance and resilience.
To make your forest tattoo more meaningful, you can add animals to it. Some people include their spirit animals in the tattoo while some add names. The more you explore the more options and ideas you will be able to get. Check out the next section on how to select the right forest tattoo design!
Tips For Choosing Your Forest Tattoo
- Forest tattoos can be small and subtle or large or detailed, pick a tattoo size that resonates with your personal preferences, aesthetics, and budget. Small tattoos are typically great for those who are new to the tattooing world and are given to minimalistic sensibilities.
- If you are going for a detailed and complex tattoo opt for flat areas like the chest or the upper as it reads well there. While, if you are going for a dainty or wrap-around forest design, opt for arms and legs as these designs can perfectly fit to the curves and contours of these areas.
- Go for forest tattoos in black ink, if you like sophisticated and timeless designs. Opt for colorful forest tattoos, if you have a lively, happy, and energetic personality.
- Consider a forest tattoo of personal importance. Customize a design that carries a sentimental meaning, is inspiring, reminds you of a dear one, or a major life-changing event in life.
The above-listed tips can help you walk away with a forest tattoo art that not only resonates with your personal style but also complements the flow of your body. Now, let’s move on to see some incredible forest tattoo designs.
8 Amazing Forest Tattoo Designs
Here are some meaningful and one-of-a-kind forest tattoos to make your body art unique. Browse through them so you can get ideas for the one tattoo that will unite you with the nature-loving side of you.
1. Half Arm Forest Tattoo
Half-arm tattoos are always a great option for tattooing. They are easily visible when you wear a half-sleeve shirt or t-shirt and can be concealed under full-sleeve attires if you are attending a formal event. This tattoo on the upper arm depicts tall pine trees reaching toward the sky, symbolizing the resilience of nature. The silhouette of the forest and the blackwork-style shading effectively capture the mystery and allure of a forest.
2. Forest Sleeve Tattoo
Just one look at this realistic tattoo and you know you want it. This gorgeous piece of art is the best sleeve tattoo you can ever invest in. The color palette consists mainly of the color green. The highlights and shade are surreal. The tall trees and path make it perfect for your sleeve. If you don’t want the entire sleeve covered, you can keep the art to your forearm. Though this realistic art might be expensive, the overall look is worth it!
3. Forest Forearm Tattoo
Forearms are a great place to flaunt your body art. It gives a lot of space and the perfect curvature for your tattoo artist to ink on. This forest tattoo is done in watercolor style and has a very colorful appeal. The use of green and orange with shade work makes it a perfect artwork on your skin.
4. Dark Forest Tattoo
There is something about a dark and mysterious jungle tattoos that draws you closer. This tattoo of a dark forest is beautifully inked on the forearm. While the trees are drawn in dark ink, the background forms a hazy art that adds more mystery to the tattoo. The realistic art style makes this tattoo even more intriguing. You can scale it up or down and place it on any part of your body.
5. Wrist Forest Tattoo
Wrist tattoos are a wonderful place to flaunt your body art. The design can be minimal, elaborate, or colorful, this is the first place people notice your tattoo. This tattoo design wraps around the wrist and depicts the silhouette of a pine forest. Pine tree tattoos give the tattoo a very green and wholesome element. Notice the subtle form of the sun, with softer edges, in a pale yellow shade in the backdrop. While the forest is a reminder of your own growth, the sun may symbolize a constant source of guidance.
6. Forest And Mountain Tattoo Sleeve
Forests and mountains make the best pair and when drawn in a tattoo, it adds to the beauty of it. This design is a forever favorite among nature lovers and hikers. It has beautiful color shading. The watercolor-style soft and blended colors give a dreamy effect to the forest tattoo and the snow-capped mountains in the backdrop add an element of wonder to it. The tattoo can be placed on the lower sleeve as well and you may add more elements, like meadow and grass, to cover your entire arm. You can also add tribal flower tattoos to the design to give it a traditional feel.
7. Wolf Forest Tattoo
If you are a fan of wolf tattoos, this design will surely attract you. It is made using realistic style and the dark ink shades blend beautifully with one another to form a lone wolf. Placed on the forearm the tattoo looks gorgeous. It has elements like pine trees at the bottom of the tattoo. It is surely one of a kind and if you are a nature tattoo lover, this is the design you should go for.
8. Silhouette Wolf Forest Tattoo
This tattoo has a separate fan base. It carries a deep meaning of spiritual protection. Paired with elements of forest, the art becomes even more authentic. This tattoo on the forearm features a silhouette of a wolf in a circle with two pine trees. The best part about the tattoo is that you can scale it and place it on different parts of the body. It is made with black ink which makes it suitable for all skin tones.
There is no end to how creative you can get with your forest tattoos. The more you look at designs the more inspired you will be. You can also take different elements of the forest you like and turn it into a sleeve tattoo. Make sure you get your realistic tattoos done by seasoned artists only. Make sure you commit to the aftercare to keep the design fresh for a long time. A little TLC goes a long way!
8 Forest Tattoo Designs to Inspire Your Next Ink
Watch our video to explore 8 stunning forest tattoo designs, learn their meanings, and discover tips on size, style, and placement. Dive in now to find your ideal ink!
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.
