No, you generally should not use Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on a new tattoo because it's too heavy, clogs pores, traps moisture, and prevents the wound from breathing, which can slow healing, trap bacteria, and cause infection or ink loss; instead, use a very thin layer of fragrance-free, water-based lotion or a specialized tattoo aftercare product after gently washing it. While artists use it during tattooing and some brands suggest it for later, the general consensus is to avoid it on fresh, open wounds.
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).
The first three days after the tattoo
Once dry, apply a thin layer of After Care of your choice. I recommend regular Bepanthen. NO Vaseline. Vaseline will clog the pores and hinder the healing process.
Better Alternatives Available:
Some popular alternatives include coconut oil, aloe vera gel, and specialized tattoo aftercare products.
Gently wash off excess ointment and fluids from tattoo with clean, bare hand. Pat dry with a clean, single-use paper towel; do not rub with towel. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin™ Zinc Oxide ointment, Neosporin™ or Vitamin A&D ointment.
Barrier Protection: Vaseline creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping to prevent excess ink from staining surrounding areas and making it easier to wipe away excess ink during the tattooing process.
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!
Artists recommend fragrance-free, non-petroleum products specifically formulated for tattoo healing. Tattoo balms (like Hustle Butter, Redemption, After Inked) keep skin hydrated and reduce irritation. Lotions (Lubriderm, Aveeno, Aquaphor Healing Ointment in moderation) work well if applied thinly.
Avoid using petroleum jelly and other petroleum-based products to hydrate your tattoo, as these can cause ink fading. Instead, opt for a water-based moisturizing cream or lotion to keep your tattoo hydrated.
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.
If your artist puts on a Saniderm bandage, you'll be able to skip the first few days of care, but don't leave it on for more than four days and begin moisturizing and washing as soon as you remove it. Once healed, daily moisturization will keep your tattoo looking fresh.
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.
Here's a handful of bad habits that are top of the list of things tattoo artists hate.
The AAD states that petroleum-based products, like petroleum jelly itself, can actually cause your tattoo ink to fade. Look for a water-based moisturizer or cream instead to hydrate your tattooed skin when it's in need of moisture.
If you can't find tattoo aftercare cream, we recommend Bepanthen, Vaseline or Palmers Cocoa Butter as a last resort. For approximately 10 days, or until the area has healed, steps 3-5 should be repeated for three to four times each day as necessary.
Tattoos need to breathe during the healing process, and Vaseline can clog pores, potentially leading to infection and delayed healing.
A $1000 tattoo can range from a large, detailed piece (around 6-10 inches or palm-sized with complex shading) to a significant portion of a larger project, like a half-sleeve or a sizable back/chest piece, often requiring multiple sessions, depending heavily on artist skill, complexity, color, and location, as rates vary greatly.
Like any tattoo session, tattoo touch-up costs can differ based on the size of your tattoo, the complexity of the tattoo and touch-up, and the reliability of the tattoo studio. Some studios offer a complimentary service for the first touch-up, while others may charge a reduced rate.
Among the rest of the Stories & Ink team, the most painful places to get a tattoo include:
Research on tattoos older than 40 years shows that ink particles remain in the deep dermis and local lymph nodes. According to the WHO data from animal experiments, black and red tattoo ink particles reach the liver, and titanium dioxide (white pigment) reaches the liver, spleen, and lung (4).
New Tattoo Care: What Not to Do After Getting Inked
You have a rash or bumpy skin around your tattoo
If you notice a rash or lumpy, bumpy skin around your new tattoo, this could be something to worry about. Any itching that seems extreme, or rashes and cracked skin, could indicate infection.
After 3 days, your tattoo should show reduced redness and swelling. It will appear slightly dry with a thin film forming over it. Some clear fluid and ink may still seep out, but significantly less than the first day. The colors will appear bright but may have a shiny, tight feeling.