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Today we will be talking about Aquaphor for tattoos. Getting inked is like one of the momentary goals that come true. Everyone who wishes to get their favorite tattoo inked on them considers it an idyllic moment. Records say that almost 145 million Americans have a tattoo inked on them. Among the millions in the US, 15 of them are believed to be men and 13% to be women.
The fuss is real when it comes to tattooing, but people often forget to take the aftercare part seriously. Yes, aftercare matters, after all. The reason behind this is that after tattooing, which is a process involving a needle pierced into your skin, your skin becomes prone to infections and discolorations.
Aftercare is a vital measure to be taken after getting inked, and it is high time people realize that. Hence, it is always advisable to consider the aftercare processes indispensable.
The aftercare is done by using Aquaphor. Aquaphor is nothing but a brand name of a topical ointment that predominantly consists of petroleum jelly in it. This topical ointment has moisturizing attributes and is usually used for dry, brittle, and chapped skin and lips to keep them hydrated and supple.
If you are new to Aquaphor, don’t you worry because we have got you covered? This article explains vividly about Aquaphor, its constituents, Aquaphor for tattoos and the reason behind it, how to apply, and so on. So, let’s go!
Aquaphor And Its Constituents
Aquaphor is mainly composed of petroleum jelly, petrolatum to be more specific, but it also contains other ingredients such as glycerin, lanolin, and so on. Given below are the ingredients jampacked in Aquaphor topical ointment.
- Petrolatum (41%)
- Mineral oils
- Lanolin alcohol
- Glycerin
- Ceresin
- Panthenol
- Bisabolol
All the ingredients mentioned above, especially petrolatum, mineral oil (Huile Minerale), and lanolin, acts as an emollient which helps to moisturize the skin by treating dry and flaky skin. The ceresin is often used in creams and ointments to maintain viscosity. Like petrolatum, glycerin and bisabolol also soothe the skin and keep it supple and fresh-looking.
How to Apply Aquaphor for Tattoos?
Almost everyone knows that after getting inked, the tattoo artist applies antibiotic cream or lotion and wraps the area with a plastic saran wrap or bandage, insisting them not to remove it for several hours and sometimes several days too. This is to prevent the entry of harmful bacteria.
The area tends to be sensitive for many days, especially if the tattoo is significant, and so the chances are high that it irritates when it is rubbed on walls, clothes, and so on. So, the saran wrap helps prevent that too.
So, coming back to the procedure, the Aquaphor can be applied to the skin after removing the wrap. Below given are simple steps to apply the Aquaphor for tattoos
Step 1: Remove the saran wrap and gently wash the area with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Step 2: Pat dry the area with a clean paper towel after that.
Step 3: Now, gently apply a thin layer of the Aquaphor ointment to the area. You can take the excess ointment off with the towel.
Step 4: Sometimes, the tattoo might feel dry and a bit tight. In this case, you can even use it more than once a day to make it feel comfortable on your skin.
How Does Aquaphor for Tattoos Work?
Aquaphor for tattoos works like magic. You don’t have to worry about whether the tattoo gets faded on applying Aquaphor or not because it doesn’t. If you wonder how Aquaphor for tattoos works, it is quite simple.
The application of Aquaphor ointment on the skin creates a shielding barrier, thus preventing the skin from getting dried and retaining moisture. Aquaphor acts as an occlusive agent by helping the wound dry by letting the oxygen reach there faster. Hence, it is always advisable to rely upon Aquaphor for tattoos aftercare.
Vaseline vs. Aquaphor For Tattoos
There aren’t many differences between vaseline and Aquaphor. The prime dissimilarity is that vaseline is of jelly form whereas the latter is of ointment form. Aquaphor is known for its humectant properties whereas vaseline doesn’t have that. Vaseline is greasy, but Aquaphor is less greasy and easier to apply. However, vaseline tends to cause fewer side effects when compared to Aquaphor as it doesn’t have any scent and has fewer chemicals.
Possible Side effects of Using Aquaphor for Tattoos
- Too much of anything is good for nothing. Aquaphor should be applied only until it forms a thin layer. If applied for a thick layer, chances are high for acne breakout. Application of a thick layer of Aquaphor clogs the pores, thus resulting in acne breakouts.
- In certain cases, the petrolatum in it causes skin irritation or stinginess in sensitive skin. So, in this case, one might prefer organic ointments and lotions.
- It is not advisable to use Aquaphor with other topical creams as both might cause redness and burning.
As we can see, the side effect of using Aquaphor for tattoos is limited. These are the possible side effects one could get from it. However, consult your doctor immediately if you witness any burning sensation, hives, or bleeding.
Other Aftercare Tips
Aquaphor is usually advised to use for 4 to 5 days maximum and that’s it. You can frequent it by applying twice or thrice a day. Aquaphor is so efficient that you don’t need to use it for weeks and weeks. After the Aquaphor for tattoos phase is over, you have to rely upon lotions for moisturization.
Choose any lotion of your choice but make sure it is unscented, non comedogenic, and gives long lasting moisturization. Apply the lotion twice a day at least, thrice or maybe four times if you experience intense drying of the area
Neither go swimming nor take heavy showers for at least a week or more.
Never forget to use sunblocks. Always keep your sunscreen with you and reapply it often.
Don’t use bath salts and scrubs in the area for many weeks.
The Bottom Line | Aquaphor for Tattoos
Well, the bottom line of the article is that the aftercare regimen of tattoos is indispensable. Other than the aftercare, there are other things that people need to keep in mind. Always opt for a licensed studio and inquire about the ink they are about to use on you. Take a quick scan of the studio and check whether they are disposing of the used needles as it can cause ailments like AIDS, skin rashes, hives, keloid, and so on.
Hope this article walks you through the necessary information about Aquaphor. Feel free to share your queries in the comments below.
