If you are applying vaseline on tattoo, then you need to understand its impact in the first place. Tattoos look cool, but you need to be cautious about the aftercare of them once they are applied. Some people use vaseline on them. Many people think that petroleum-based products such as Vaseline can protect and heal the wound. However, vaseline becomes counterproductive when it comes to their use on the newly made tattoos. You can get to know when to use and when to avoid using vaseline on tattoo by reading this post until the end. Let’s start!
Table of Contents
Things You Need To Consider When Applying Vaseline On Tattoos
If you think applying vaseline on a newly made tattoo can accelerate the healing process, you need to give it a second thought. Below are a few crucial things that you need to consider before applying white petroleum-based products to your tattoo:
It Actually Slows Down The Healing Process
White petroleum products are usually very thick and non-porous. It means that when you apply them to a tattoo, they create an airlock around the skin. This airlock can prevent essential oxygen from reaching the wound. In the lack of fresh air, the damage may take longer to heal.
It Helps Germs To Thrive
When you apply a thick substance, such as vaseline on tattoo, it can create an air packed pocket that becomes moist and humid. The humidity produced in the airlocked area around the tattooed skin can help the germs and bacteria to multiply rapidly. These germs can make your skin vulnerable to potential infections. Besides, the treatment of bacterial infection may take longer.
It Can Cause Faded Or Patchy Effects On The Tattoo
When you apply vaseline on a fresh tattoo, it can cause undesired effects. Vaseline can draw the ink from the inner layer of the tattoo and make it look faded or patchy.
It can Transfer Pathogens From The Tattoo Artists.
Vaseline or other white petroleum-based products can break down the latex or nitrile used in the gloves. The tattoo artists applying vaseline on tattoo unknowingly transfer the bacteria and other pathogens to the skin of the tattooed area and make the wound severe. You may not be able to observe the breakdown of the material from the naked eye. However, this breakdown and transfer of the decomposed particles take place at the microscopic level.
When Can You Use Vaseline On A New Tattoo?
Applying vaseline on tattoo is not all bad. It can be helpful when you apply it on a fresh tattoo when taking a shower. If you are applying water on a fresh tattoo for less than 10 minutes, it will not be affected. However, if you are spending more time under the shower, then your new tattoo can be deformed. On the other hand, vaseline is a non-porous (watertight) substance that can protect the area against the force of the water. Water will easily be slid over the area until a strong water jet is directly blasted on the area.
Bathing or swimming with a new tattoo can also bring forth some other issues such as severe infections. It usually takes 2-3 weeks until your tattoo is fully peeled. In this duration, taking a shower and making the tattooed area wet can promote bacterial infection on the skin. Applying vaseline before entering the shower can be a safe option.
Once you finish your shower, you need to clean the area with lukewarm water and wash it with an unscented soap to clean the vaseline applied to it. Once you are done, pat the area with a soft and clean towel. However, you have to use a suitable tattoo wound recovery lotion to apply it to the tattooed area.
Alternatives Of The Vaseline For The Aftercare Of A Tattoo
You can find several skincare products to apply to a new tattoo. The market is full of lotions, ointments, and creams suitable for your skin. However, you need to ensure that the skincare product is not including any harsh element that can make the tattoo wound worse. Besides, you also need to avoid products containing artificial colours or fragrances. These products can be detrimental to your skin. In this case, choose a safe alternative of the vaseline to apply on your sensitive skin. Check the below-given list:
A+D ointment
A+D ointment is an effective alternative you may apply to your tattooed skin. It can treat and prevent wounds and rashes. Furthermore, it also seals wetness and prevents germs or bacterial infections. Above all, A+D protects and soothes minor cuts and burns. You don’t need to apply vaseline on tattoo with this alternative as it can offer the below-given benefits:
- Provides Long-Lasting Protection
- Soothes and Relieves Irritated Skin
- Spreads Easily and Smoothly
Eucerin Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Eucerin is an alcohol-free ointment that you can choose as a safe alternative for applying on a fresh tattoo. Before applying it, you need to wash the tattooed area gently and pat it with a soft towel. Once you are done, apply a very thin layer of the ointment about four times a day. It is loaded with natural nourishing elements. The list includes alpha-hydroxy and extra-enriched moisturizers that are good for healing skin.
Lubriderm
The Lubriderm Daily Moisture Body Lotion is free from the artificial fragrance that helps to repair and hydrate the freshly tattooed skin. It is also beneficial for skin healing from inking. This water-based lotion is easy to apply on the skin and gets absorbed quickly. Once applied, it keeps your skin moisturized for 24 hours. It contains vitamin B5 that accelerates up healing. The glycerin boosts the moisture level of your skin and keeps it smooth. The main advantages of the Lubriderm Daily Moisture Body Lotion are:
- Water-based
- Quickly absorbed
- Non-greasy
- Soothes and heals skin
Conclusion!
The post elaborates on the various aspects of applying vaseline on tattoo, both positive and negative. Besides, you can also find some of the best alternatives for the vaseline to apply on a fresh tattoo. If you liked this post, then visiting our blog section can help you to find more exciting blogs.
Comments are closed for this post.