I don’t have any tattoos, but I am very aware of what I would get. My dad passed away nearly 10 years ago, and my 3 siblings and I have always said we would get his signature tattooed when we felt ready. It would be symbolic of the great life he lived and the lessons he instilled in us. I am a bit too scared (I don’t do well with physical pain) and we have yet to do it. However, I do tons of research on tattoos when I feel like I’m closer to being ready.

One of the biggest things I focus on in my research is the aftercare routine. Getting a tattoo is one thing, but learning how to take care of it, especially in the early stages of post-treatment, could be the difference in success and re-inking. In fact, it takes most tattoos 3 to 6 weeks to heal, and during this time you can experience itching, bleeding, scabs, and discomfort.

Moisturizers, salves, and ointments help reduce scarring that can affect the artwork, keep skin hydrated to ensure tattoo heals evenly, and protects wounds from infection. Some formulas even have vitamins E and B5 that helps speed up the healing and SPF to protect freshly tattooed skin from sun exposure. Unsurprisingly, the skin is extremely sensitive post-trauma, which a tattoo is considered.

Ahead, we are sharing the best tattoo aftercare products on the market to keep your tattoo in tip-top shape, minimize discomfort, and avoid infections.

Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment

This is highly recommended by most tattoo artists as it’s effective and simply to follow as a twice daily product. The formula is infused with vitamins E and B5 to help speed up the process and soothe the soreness from the pricking. It was originally recommended for babies for diaper rash and other irritations so you know that it truly is very gentle and will not cause further irritations.

Get the Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment from Amazon for $7

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Another favorite petroleum-forward option that acts as an occlusive to seal in moisture.

Get the Aquaphor Healing Ointment from Amazon for $15

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Now if you prefer something a little less weighty, you can also opt for this to calm inflammation and jumpstart healing.

Get the Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion from Amazon for $9

As a general rule of thumb, everyone is going to have their own opinion on which lotion to use and what works best for them. But it’s important to patch test the lotion on a small portion of your body to see if you will react to it. And just be sure to use what works for your skin and climate. In this situation, healing is not a one-size fits all thing, so be sure to do what’s right for you.

The main objective, of course, is keeping your tattoo looking fresh, so here is what you need to do.

Photo via Authority Tattoo