Tattoo wellness: Best aftercare products that speed up healing

Tattoo aftercare is a crucial part of tattooing, yet it's often overlooked or underestimated. Traditional aftercare methods can be time-consuming, messy, and sometimes ineffective. However, there's a growing trend in the tattoo industry: wellness-focused aftercare products designed to speed up healing and enhance the overall tattoo experience.

In this article, we'll delve into tattoo wellness and explore innovative and best tattoo aftercare products that revolutionise how we care for our tattoos. From soothing balms to advanced skincare solutions, these products offer a holistic approach to healing, ensuring your tattooed skin looks its best from day one.

Factors that can affect tattoo healing time

Tattoo healing time can vary significantly from person to person, and several factors can influence the speed and quality of the healing process. Knowing these healing factors can help you manage your expectations and appropriately care for your new tattoo. 

• Location of the tattoo: The area of the body where the body art is placed can significantly impact healing time. Areas with thinner skin (such as the ankles or wrists) or areas subjected to the frequent movement (joints, feet, hands) may take longer to heal.
• Tattoo size and complexity of the tattoo: Larger tattoos or those with intricate designs may take longer to heal because they involve more skin trauma. Colour tattoos might also take longer to heal than simple black ink tattoos due to the variety of pigments and the additional work required to fill them in.
• Individual health and age: Overall, health and age are significant factors in healing. Younger individuals with healthier skin may experience quicker healing times. In contrast, older adults or those with compromised immune systems may find their tattoos take longer to heal.
• Aftercare practices: Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for a tattoo to heal correctly and efficiently. Following the tattoo artist's aftercare instructions, keeping the tattoo clean, and moisturising appropriately can speed up healing. Neglecting aftercare can lead to infections or other complications, prolonging healing.
• Skin type and conditions: People with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may experience longer healing times. Such conditions can affect how the skin responds to the trauma of tattooing and may require additional care.
• Exposure to elements: Sun exposure, immersion in water (swimming pools, oceans, baths), and even tight clothing can adversely affect a tattoo's healing process. Direct sunlight can damage to the fresh tattoo and cause fading, while water can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
• Lifestyle factors: Alcohol consumption, smoking and lack of sleep can impair the immune system and slow down the healing process. Leading a healthy lifestyle supports faster recovery.

Best tattoo aftercare products for speeding up healing

Tattoo antimicrobial cleansers

The first step in tattoo aftercare involves keeping the tattoo clean to prevent infections. Antimicrobial cleansers are designed specifically for this purpose. They work by effectively removing bacteria and other pathogens from the skin without causing irritation or dryness, which is crucial in the early stages of healing.

We highly recommend the Tattoo Goo Antimicrobial Aftercare Soap for its superior cleansing ability. Now available in a new look and larger size, this soap goes beyond simple cleaning by deeply purifying the skin, eliminating dead skin cells, and effectively killing bacteria. Its formula is enriched with olive oil, ensuring that the skin remains moisturised and silky smooth without leaving any residue. This soap provides broad-spectrum antibacterial protection and is alcohol-free and fragrance-free soap, making it an ideal choice for sensitive skin. 

Another excellent option is the MTS Antibacterial Green Soap, known for its impressive 99.9% germ-killing efficiency. Made in the UK and vegan-friendly, this soap is infused with Aloe Vera, offering a soothing effect ideal for the tender care of new tattoos and skin. 

Tattoo aftercare cream and healing balms

Following a thorough cleaning routine, moisturising and nourishing the tattooed area is essential to accelerate the healing process. Tattoo creams and healing balms are specifically designed to hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and preserve the appearance of your tattoo.

The MTS Tattoo Balm is our top pick in this category. This 100% natural product boasts anti-inflammatory properties with a rich blend of ingredients like Mango Butter and Hemp Seed Oil. Its butter-like texture ensures easy application at any stage of the tattoo process, providing continuous care and nourishment to the healing skin.

For those seeking a natural solution, Tattoo Goo Balm is an outstanding choice. Crafted with natural ingredients, this salve is engineered to support faster healing without using petroleum or lanolin. It's rich in vitamins and perfectly suited for healing new tattoos and treating sunburn or minor cuts.

Tattoo moisturisers

Moisturising is key to preventing scab formation and ensuring your tattoo heals properly while retaining its colour and detail. A good tattoo moisturiser should be rich in nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E, aloe vera and shea butter known for their hydrating and soothing properties. 

We recommend the Tattoo Goo Aftercare Lotion for this purpose. It's specially formulated for sensitive skin, infused with Vitamins A & D, crucial for skin healing and maintenance. This lotion supports quick healing and helps keep the area hydrated without leaving any greasy residue, making it an ideal choice for daily use on new tattoos. Its gentle formulation ensures that your tattoo remains vibrant through the healing process.

Tattoo healing serums

Healing serums offer a targeted approach to aftercare, providing protection that reduces itching, irritation, and the risk of infection. These serums are designed to create a protective barrier that promotes faster healing. 

For an effective healing serum, Fade The Itch Tattoo Aftercare is our top pick. Utilising a dry healing technology, it covers the tattoo with an antibacterial shield, thereby accelerating the healing process and safeguarding against infection. Its non-greasy formula is appropriate for all skin types, ensuring your skin stays comfortable and moisturised throughout the healing phase without affecting the tattoo's appearance.

Tattoo ointment

Ointments are crucial in the aftercare routine by offering intensive healing properties. They help reduce swelling, redness, and the risk of infection, promoting quicker skin regeneration. When selecting an ointment, look for those containing anti-inflammatory ingredients that are known for their soothing and healing capabilities. 

Bepanthen Ointment comes highly recommended by most tattoo artists due to its gentle yet effective formula. This product is good for all skin types, including sensitive skin, Bepanthen aids in skin regeneration, speeding up the healing process without irritating the tattooed area. It's a trusted product for ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully while keeping your skin soft and nourished.

Heal your tattoo with the best aftercare products

Tattoo wellness is more than just a trend; it's a commitment to caring for your skin and ensuring your tattoos heal beautifully. By embracing innovative and best aftercare products, you can enhance the healing process, minimise discomfort, and protect the longevity of your tattoo. Whether you're a seasoned tattoo enthusiast or getting inked for the first time, investing in quality aftercare products is essential for a positive tattoo experience.