It’s important to know what kind of ointment to use in the after-care of a newly acquired tattoo.

One may hear of many options, such as using Desitin, Neosporin, Lubriderm, and even just water, but what are the consequences of using such products?

Knowing this can mean the difference of a beautiful, vibrant, healed tattoo or a muddled, blurred messed reminiscent of a botched ink job.

Appropriate use of aftercare products is of vital importance to your new tattoo’s healing process.

Avoid Neosporin

Using some products, like Neosporin could cause the body to reject it, creating a sort of allergic reaction that could involve a significant rash or even tiny red dots.

Neosporin is not only medicated, but it is also made of petroleum. Since it’s mostly used in healthcare and medical situations, it’s designed to act as a very thick barrier between the skin and the atmosphere to prevent the introduction or reintroduction of bacteria. It works by holding the moisture content within the wound while keeping oxygen at bay.

This is, of course, great in certain medical situations, such as a paper cut. However, the medication’s properties have an adverse effect on tattoos. The large patch of skin that has been ‘traumatized’ by several needles pricking it over and over needs oxygen with a thin layer of moisturization. The antibiotic properties of Neosporin could be an allergen to most people. The components of Neosporin are Bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. These are meant to kill bacteria that are on the skin.

Since its petroleum based, it’s a lot harder to remove from the skin and the extra scrubbing could lead to further irritation. It can even affect the tattoo’s healing process by fading the ink through excessive washing.

Bacitracin

Bacitracin is a safer alternative, but if it can be avoided by using the following products, avoid it. Bacitracin has been linked to a lesser amount of allergic reactions. It’s still considered a topical antibiotic and must be used with caution, especially on a new tattoo.