How Often Should You Put On A&D After Tattoo?

After tattooing, apply a thin layer of A and D Ointment to the freshly tattooed area as soon as the artist applies their finishing touches. Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water until it’s fully healed, which can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Keep the dressing on for as long as your artist recommends, and clean your tattoo 3 times a day until fully healed. After applying A and D Ointment, switch to a thinner, water-based lotion product.

Proper tattoo aftercare is critical to lower the risk of infection and help your skin heal properly after any tattoo. Apply a thin layer only the first night or two, basically until it scabs. Moisturize 3-5 times a day after wash and dry the new tattoo, preferably with unscented body lotion. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin, Zinc Oxide ointment, Neosporin™, or Vitamin A and D ointment. After 5 days, substitute a gentle fragrance-free and color-free body lotion. Repeat the washing/ointment procedure at least 3 times a day for 1–2 weeks. Apply A and D in a very thin layer 4–5 times a day.

After the procedure is complete, the artist will apply a very thin layer of A and D ointment to the tattoo. Wash with mild soap and antibacterial soap in 2 – 4 hours. After 2 days, stop using A and D ointment and switch to a fragrance-free lotion. Wash your tattoo twice a day with warm water and antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Attend the tattoo aftercare, always with clean hands. Use A and D ointment 2-3 times each day for 2-3 days, keeping the tattoo clean and soft. After 2-3 days, switch to using a non-sticky lotion product.

How Frequently Should I Moisturize My Tattoo?

How Often Should I Moisturize a New Tattoo?

Tattoo artists and skincare experts generally recommend moisturizing a new tattoo three times a day. Although this frequency may seem excessive, it is crucial as the skin is healing and tender after the tattooing process. Here’s a suggested moisturizing schedule: after washing and drying the new tattoo, moisturize it 3-5 times daily, taking into account that maintaining moisture may differ based on your local climate and skin type. For instance, if you're using a moisturizer that absorbs well, like Lubriderm, reapplication can be more frequent compared to thicker products like Aquaphor.

Start moisturizing once you notice your tattoo is drying out, typically 1–3 days post-application. In the first 24-48 hours after getting the tattoo, it is advisable not to apply moisturizer at all. Keeping the tattoo uncovered during this time allows plasma and ink to settle while the skin begins to heal.

As a general guideline, it’s best to moisturize 2-3 times a day—roughly every 8-12 hours. Though individual preferences and skin types may influence frequency, optimal healing usually occurs with this routine. To support healing, it’s recommended to apply an unscented moisturizer 2 to 3 times daily for the initial two weeks or longer if advised by your tattoo artist. Protecting your tattoo from fading over time involves drinking water, continuing to moisturize your skin, and keeping the tattoo area safe from excessive sun exposure.

Continue this moisturizing routine for 2-3 weeks after getting inked, using a non-scented lotion or cream daily until complete healing occurs. Generally, for the first two weeks, tattoos should be moisturized about 3–6 times a day. While some people choose to maintain a daily moisturizing routine for life, proper skincare post-tattooing is essential regardless.

In the case of a tattoo that's larger and covers more skin area, increase the frequency of application to at least 2-3 times per day. For the initial healing phase of 10-14 days, aim to apply moisturizer 2-4 times daily. Ultimately, an effective method is to simply use whatever moisturizer you typically apply to your skin, keeping consistent daily application in mind.

When Should I Stop Putting Ointment On My New Tattoo?

After getting a new tattoo, it's advised to keep an ointment on for approximately 3 to 5 days, applying a thin layer 2 to 3 times daily or as instructed by your tattoo artist. While you can eventually remove the bandage, it's important to leave it on for a few hours initially. For two weeks post-tattooing, keeping the area moisturized is crucial. Understanding the three phases of healing is essential; however, avoid over-moisturizing and start moisturizing only when the tattoo begins to dry — typically 1 to 3 days after getting inked.

When cleaning your tattoo, use antibacterial soap and follow up with an appropriate moisturizer. Many over-the-counter lotions and eczema ointments are fine for tattoo care, but check labels for suitability. Moisturization should start immediately and continue for an extended period. After your session, the artist will clean your tattoo, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a bandage or plastic wrap. It's recommended to keep the bandage on for 2-3 hours or as advised.

Once the initial cover is removed, avoid touching the tattoo and ensure proper care to prevent scabbing. As scabs form from days 4 to 10, continue applying ointment or switch to a gentle, fragrance-free lotion without picking at them. Full healing typically occurs in 2-3 weeks. After the first few days when the tattoo feels tight and dry, discontinue the ointment and start using a mild, fragrance-free lotion like Eucerin or Lubriderm.

Ongoing tattoo care is suggested for another week after seemingly complete healing, as ceasing care too early might affect the tattoo's appearance. While two to four weeks of aftercare is recommended, there's generally no strict time limit on moisturizing. It's noted that prolonged use of certain products beyond the initial days can lead to potential fading of the tattoo color. If you notice bubbling on the tattoo, halt ointment use to allow it to dry and peel naturally, as this indicates moisture issues.