You can use coconut oil on a tattoo if you don't have allergies, as it's moisturizing and antibacterial, but avoid Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on fresh tattoos because it can suffocate the skin, trap bacteria, and pull out ink; instead, use a thin layer of water-based lotion or a tattoo-specific balm, allowing the skin to breathe and heal properly. Always follow your tattoo artist's specific aftercare advice.
Coconut oil has been shown to support the skin's natural protective barrier and healthy levels of inflammation to potentially reduce skin swelling. It is also highly moisturizing. No wonder it's recommended for tattoo aftercare.
Coconut oil is not appropriate for a tattoo - which is an open wound. Wash your tattoo twice a day with antibacterial soap and apply unscented lotion to it. That's it. Adding extra products or steps is overcomplicating and can irritate your skin/tattoo and in some cases lead to an infection.
But coconut oil contains a type of fat (saturated fat) that can increase cholesterol levels. Like all saturated fats, it should be consumed in moderation. Coconut oil is possibly safe when used as a medicine short-term. Taking coconut oil in doses of 10 mL two or three times daily for up to 12 weeks seems to be safe.
To aid the skin healing process, the tattoo needs to be kept moist. You can use a very thin layer of hypoallergenic ointment or fragrance-free lotion like Vaseline® Intensive Care™ Advanced Repair Unscented Lotion, or Vaseline® Healing Jelly Original. Repeat daily for 2-3 weeks to help wound healing.
Better Alternatives Available:
Some popular alternatives include coconut oil, aloe vera gel, and specialized tattoo aftercare products.
New Tattoo Care: What Not to Do After Getting Inked
Coconut oil may hydrate dry skin and offer mild antibacterial properties, but it's not effective for healing chronic or infected wounds and is not clinically recommended.
The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil offer great support for natural hygiene. Lauric acid is the primary fatty acid of coconut fat. This fatty acid is well known for its antimicrobial properties.
Along with some of the basic tips, we know you're looking for ways to heal your tattoo fast!
Tea tree oil is one of the most effective natural antiseptics for post-tattoo care. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help reduce the risk of infection and keep skin clean while healing.
Calendula Oil/Extract: Calendula has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It can help reduce redness and irritation around the tattooed area. Lavender Oil: Lavender oil is often added for its calming and healing effects. It can help reduce pain, inflammation, and promote a sense of relaxation.
Coconut Oil's ability to penetrate the skin seamlessly makes it equally as effective as Petroleum Jelly when treating dryness.
Fragranced lotions- I know some of you love using perfumed lotion products from bath and body works, and while they smell great, they contain a bunch of artificial fragrances and contaminants that can cause infections in your open wounds. I would avoid using these until your tattoo is completely healed and settled!
The main side effects of coconut oil on skin are clogged pores, acne breakouts, and folliculitis, especially for oily or acne-prone skin, as it's highly comedogenic. It can also cause allergic reactions (redness, itching, hives) or worsen certain skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, and offers minimal sun protection, making it unsuitable as a sunscreen. Always patch test first, and consider it best for very dry skin on the body, not the face or areas prone to breakouts, say Healthline and Curology.
Letting it soak. To maximise the benefits of coconut oil for dry scalps, you'll want to leave the coconut oil on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper conditioning. If you opt for an overnight treatment, protect your pillow and hair by using a hair towel to prevent oil staining and unnecessary friction.
Can Bacteria Grow in Coconut Oil? Coconut oil has natural antimicrobial properties due to the presence of lauric acid, which can inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria and fungi. However, it is still possible for bacteria to grow in it under certain conditions.
Lauric acid, found in many vegetable oils, makes up 49% of coconut oil and has antimicrobial properties. So, while it can't treat intense wounds on the surface of your skin, it could help with soothing milder skin lesions like scratches or razor burns.
By the second week or later, the wound should be fully closed with new skin that appears intact and healthy. At this stage, when to stop putting Vaseline on a wound is clear — the skin no longer needs the protective moisture barrier, and using Vaseline could trap bacteria or cause irritation.
Aloe vera calms irritation, and coconut oil combats against fungal infections. Aloe vera is great if you want a lightweight moisture. Coconut oil is the best oil to use to deep condition. Both remedies promote hair growth, if that's your goal.
Yes, a $50 tip on a $300 tattoo is a good tip, falling slightly below the standard 20% ($60) but representing a solid 16.7%, showing appreciation, especially if you had a good experience; however, tipping $60-$75 (20-25%) is generally considered excellent for great service, so $50 is a respectable amount.
What NOT to do? DON'T re-bandage your tattoo, rub, scratch or pick at your new tattoo. DON'T apply alcohol, Neosporin, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly (they can trap dirt and germs and cause infection). DON'T apply a heavy coat of lotion (remember the skin must breathe in order to heal).