Bepathen is a popular antiseptic ointment choice. However, other antiseptic ointments include Savlon and Soov. Any of the three can be used on new ink once gently cleaned with a combination of antimicrobial soap and lukewarm water.
For tattoo aftercare, we recommend Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm. This dermatologically-tested balm promotes accelerated skin regeneration to ensure a fast and efficient healing process for your tattoo*.
The issue is just that people make the mistake of applying a thick layer, preventing the skin from being able to breath and not heal properly. As long as you apply a thin layer and not pull the skin (especially during the first 2 weeks), bepanthen is probably the best product to use for tattoos in the healing phase.
what ointment is good for new tattoos 5 top picks 2025
However, if you take a closer look at the ingredients, you'll find that there's almost no real difference between the regular Bepanthen and Bepanthen Tattoo. The only things that differ are the packaging, name, and tube size: Regular Bepanthen – 100 g for about $20. Bepanthen Tattoo – 30 g for about $8 (as of 2025)
Traditional Bepanthen creams, like those made for baby care, might be too thick for tattoo healing and can leave a greasy residue that is difficult to manage. Tattoo-specific Bepanthen products are usually fragrance free, which helps reduce the risk of irritation.
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.
However, we also recommend coconut oil and certain brands of tattoo healing creams such as Hustle Butter, but please do not use Bepanthen, as the ingredients have changed and its no longer beneficial for the tattoo healing process.
What can I put on my tattoo after getting it done? Here at Art n Soul we highly recommend using QV for your after tattoo care cream, which is conveniently sold at most chemists and supermarkets.
Bepanthen is an aftercare product recommended by tattoo artists, it protects, heals and softens tattooed skin. Due to its special formula, this aftercare ointment forms a protective layer on the skin. The layer is transparent and does not close off the skin, allowing it to breathe.
Final Verdict: Ink Nurse Wins in 2025
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Tattoo artists have been recommending it for years. Its mild formula, designed for sensitive baby skin, works well on the tender healing skin of a fresh tattoo.
Fresh tattoos need a completely different type of moisturiser. Usually called aftercare cream, it's made for tattooed skin that needs to recover. Choose a cream that's fragrance free, made with natural ingredients and designed for new ink.
Leave over night then the following day wash once a day in the shower and apply a moisturiser 3-4 times daily (At Nala we have had very good results with Bepanthen, but alternatives such as E45 cream, cocoa butter, vitamin E cream can be used) With the moisturiser,.
After getting a tattoo, avoid scratching/picking, submerging in water (baths, pools, hot tubs), direct sun exposure, tight clothing, and harsh soaps or petroleum jelly; instead, keep it clean with mild soap, moisturize lightly with artist-recommended lotion, and let it heal undisturbed to prevent infection and preserve the ink. Always follow your tattoo artist's specific aftercare instructions for best results.
All participants showed an uncomplicated healing process of the skin and there were no reported adverse events considered unrelated to the tattooing process. Tattoo colour fading was not reported as an adverse effect to Bepanthen® Tattoo Ointment in the clinical study1.
The Next 24 Hours
With clean hands, wash your tattoo with the same gentle tattoo cleanser or antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Gently pat it dry with a fresh paper towel. After 24 hours, it's time to start moisturizing your tattoo. Always use a fragrance-free lotion.
Best Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Options
Two of the most recommended options are Aquaphor and Lubriderm (we recommend these at our shop, too!)
Moisturizer's to avoid:
While patience is key, there are several proactive steps you can take to help your skin recover more quickly and effectively.
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.
Cleaning and Excessive Water Exposure
Who would have thought that cleaning the tattoo could also sabotage healing? Avoid submerging your fresh tattoo underwater or apply excessive water while showering. Our skin could absorb the water and damage the tattoo.
Apply a water-based lotion or cream to your tattoo to keep it moisturized — it's never a good idea to leave your fresh new ink susceptible to dryness. “Moisture will help the skin to heal faster and keep scabs from forming,” Dr. Sra says.