Tattoo Hygiene and Aftercare
Hygiene
Tattoo Aftercare
Recovery
Hustle Butter Deluxe®
Dermalize
Ink-Eeze
Ecotat
The Aftercare Company
Second Skin
Numbing
Pegasus
Otzi
Proton
DermX
Biotat
Tattoo Hygiene and Aftercare FAQ's
Yes. Hustle Butter Deluxe is commonly used for tattoo aftercare. Made with natural ingredients, including shea butter, coconut oil and mango seed butter, it moisturises the skin without being overly heavy.
It helps keep the tattoo hydrated and can be used before, during, and after the tattoo process, making it a versatile option for artists.
Good tattoo aftercare includes:
- Keeping the tattoo clean and dry
- Applying a thin layer of aftercare product (butter or lotion)
- Avoiding picking, scratching, or over-moisturising
Providing good aftercare instructions to your clients is vital to ensuring the tattoo heals well.
Yes. Tattoo aftercare wraps (such as adhesive films or bandages) are commonly used to protect a fresh tattoo in the early stages of healing.
They help by:
- Keeping the tattoo clean
- Protecting it from bacteria and irritation
- Reducing friction from clothing
You can find a range of wraps from industry-leading brands, including:
To support faster healing:
- Keep the tattoo clean
- Apply aftercare in thin layers
- Avoid irritation (tight clothing, sun exposure, scratching)
Healing cannot be rushed, but proper care helps avoid delays.
It will depend on which aftercare product you’re using but generally:
- Wash your hands
- Clean the tattoo gently
- Let it dry fully
- Apply a small, thin layer of aftercare product
Tattoo healing typically happens in two stages:
- Surface healing: about 2–3 weeks
- Deeper healing: up to several months
Aftercare is most important during the first 2–3 weeks. Continue light care if needed, but intensive aftercare is not usually required for the full healing period.
No. Vaseline is not recommended for aftercare. It traps moisture and blocks airflow, which can:
- Slow healing
- Trap bacteria
- Increase the risk of infection
Use breathable, tattoo-specific aftercare products instead, such as Recovery, Hustle Butter, Dermalize, Butterluxe, and Otzi.
Yes. Aloe vera is often used because it:
- Soothes irritation
- Reduces inflammation
- Provides light moisture
It is commonly included in tattoo-friendly soaps and aftercare products.
Green soap is mainly used during tattooing to clean the skin. It’s not commonly used for long-term aftercare as it can dry out the skin.
Alternatives like Hustle Butter Foaming Tattoo Soap are designed for gentle cleansing during healing, with antibacterial and soothing properties.
Common tattoo aftercare supplies include:
- Moisturising butters or lotions – such as Recovery Tattoo Lotion and Hustle Butter Deluxe, which help keep the tattoo hydrated and support healing.
- Adhesive healing films or bandages – such as Recovery Derm Shield and the Dermalize Pro Roll, which protect fresh tattoos in the early healing stage.
- Gentle cleansers – such as Otzi Cleansing Gel, designed to clean the tattoo without irritating the skin.
Tattoo hygiene prevents:
- Infection
- Cross-contamination
- Poor healing results
Good hygiene protects both the client and the artist and ensures better tattoo quality.
Essential hygiene supplies include:
- Gloves
- Disinfectants
- Sterile cartridges or needles
- Barrier films and covers
- Sharps disposal containers
These help maintain a clean and safe working environment.
To maintain a safe setup:
- Use single-use, sterile equipment
- Cover surfaces with protective barriers
- Wash hands and wear fresh gloves
- Dispose of waste correctly (e.g., sharps bins)
- Clean and disinfect all work areas
Consistent hygiene practices are critical for safe tattooing.
Aftercare is vital for a well-healed tattoo so it's important your tattoo studio only stocks the very best. Our Hustle Butter Deluxe range is a best seller and is a favourite of some of the best tattoo artists worldwide.
Killer Ink Tattoo also stock products from Ink Health and Ink-Eeze to help your customers care for their new piece of artwork and look forward to showing off their new tattoos once they're fully healed.
We also stock a range of hygiene and cleaning equipment to keep everything sterile and hygienic. Shop our range of cleaners, disinfectants and anti-bacterial products to keep your tattoo studio up to the highest standard and use our covers, aprons, cloths and sharps bins to keep everything running clean and hygienic.