Best Tattoo Aftercare Balms of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Tattoo aftercare balms are a must-have for anyone who has recently gotten a tattoo. These balms are specially formulated to moisturize and heal the skin after being tattooed, reducing the risk of infection and helping the tattoo heal more quickly. They are made with natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin and can be used on any type of tattoo. Some of the key ingredients in these balms include shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, all of which work together to soothe and protect the skin. With regular use, tattoo aftercare balms can help keep tattoos looking vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover#TOP 1
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm
ftb score rating icon9.8
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover#TOP 2
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream
ftb score rating icon9.7
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover#TOP 3
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 Tattoo Aftercare Balms

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm

HBD_5oz
White
5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare 5oz Tattoo Balm, Heals + Protects New Tattoos and Rejuvenates Older Tattoos - 100% Vegan Cream No-Petroleum
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Aftercare Balm is an all-natural, vegan, and petroleum-free product designed to help heal and protect new tattoos while also rejuvenating older tattoos. It is made from Shea, Mango, Aloe butter, Coconut, Sunflower, Rice Bran oils, Rosemary Oleoresin, Green Tea, Vitamin E Complex, Mint Arvenis Essential Oil, as well as the essence of Papaya, Coconut. It is used and recommended by artists worldwide and is certified cruelty-free.

What We Like
Smooth, non-greasy texture
Natural ingredients
Effective for healing tattoos
Long-lasting value
Pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
Can feel thick
Possibly greasy residue

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream- Color Enhancement that Revives Old Tattoos, Hydrates New Tattoos, Made With Clean Ingredients + Petroleum Free, Daily Tattoo Lotion Moisturizer & Brightener
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream is a color enhancement product that revives old tattoos and hydrates new tattoos. It is made with natural ingredients and is petroleum free. It is great for sensitive skin and works on all skin colors and ink colors. It helps to maintain and restore the vibrancy of tattoos, while also preventing ink discoloration.

What We Like
Rich, non-greasy formula
Enhances tattoo vibrancy
Natural ingredients for sensitive skin
Subtle, pleasant scent
Effective for healing and maintenance
What We Don't Like
Somewhat gritty texture
Pricey compared to alternatives

Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit

TGK01
Tattoo Aftercare
3 Piece Set
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Includes Antimicrobial Soap, Balm, and Lotion, Tattoo Care for Color Enhancement + Quick Healing - Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Petroleum-Free, Tattoo Artist Gifts (3 Piece Set)
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

This 3-piece Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit includes Antimicrobial Soap, Balm, and Lotion to help maintain vibrant color and glow, provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antibacterial protection, and speed up the healing process. Customers have found the products to be gentle on sensitive skin, and have praised the soap for its ability to clean piercings thoroughly without burning. The balm and lotion have been found to keep tattoos looking fresh and new, and the kit has been praised for its ability to help with healing a tattoo long-term.

What We Like
Effective tattoo healing
Lightweight balm and lotion
Travel-friendly size
Minimized itching and scabbing
Quality ingredients
What We Don't Like
Some may find cheaper alternatives
#TOP 4

Mad Rabbit Enhance Tattoo Balm Stick

BALM-MINI-UNS
Mad Rabbit Enhance Tattoo Balm Stick Cover
Mad Rabbit Enhance Tattoo Balm Stick-Tattoo Aftercare Brightener & Moisturizer, Clean, Color Enhancement, Fragrance-Free (.2oz)
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

Mad Rabbit Enhance Tattoo Balm Stick is a perfect choice for all types of tattoos. It helps to enhance the depth, clarity, and contrast of the body art while keeping the tattoo healthy and preventing ink discoloration. The balm stick is made of clean, natural ingredients, including fatty-acids, antioxidant-rich butters and lightweight oils. It is also suitable for permanent make-up and microblading aftercare.

What We Like
Natural ingredient blend
Mess-free stick applicator
Long-lasting hydration
Brightens tattoo colors
Compact travel size
What We Don't Like
Application can be tricky
Smaller than expected
#TOP 5

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Stick

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Stick Cover
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare - Tattoo Balm Stick - On The Go Tattoo Aftercare - Naturally Derived Vegan Cruelty Free - Mess Free - 1.6 oz
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Hustle Butter Balm Stick is an essential for tattoo care, especially for those on the go. This convenient balm stick allows you to easily apply targeted hydration to your tattoos, keeping them looking vibrant and fresh. No matter where you are—whether at home, work, or traveling—this portable stick fits perfectly in your purse or backpack. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, it ensures your skin stays moisturized with nourishing elements like shea butter and coconut oil. Plus, it features a delightful tropical scent, making every application feel like a mini-vacation.

What We Like
Amazing scent
Non-greasy texture
Great for tattoo care
Convenient travel size
Moisturizes well
What We Don't Like
Thick application
Requires hand rubbing
#TOP 6

Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick by WONDER FAMILY

WONDER FAMILY
Fresh Vibrance
Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick by WONDER FAMILY Cover
Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick - Tattoo Moisturizer & Tattoo Lotion Aftercare Combined in Shea Butter Stick - Tattoo Aftercare Cream To Soothe Skin - Essential Tattoo Supplies
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The Tattoo Balm Stick by WONDER FAMILY is your all-in-one solution for tattoo aftercare. This convenient balm combines the benefits of a tattoo cream and moisturizer, providing gentle hydration to your skin. It contains essential ingredients like Biotin and Hyaluronic acid, which help repair and enhance the natural glow of your tattooed skin. Additionally, it acts as a brightening cream, keeping your tattoos vibrant and fresh even after they have healed. Enhanced with soothing natural oils like shea butter and olive oil, this balm offers relief to your skin post-tattoo, making it a must-have for anyone looking to maintain their ink.

What We Like
Gorgeous packaging
Easy application
Moisturizes effectively
Natural ingredients
Lightweight, non-greasy
What We Don't Like
Slightly greasy residue
Smaller size for price
#TOP 7

Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm

VRTB1
2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm Cover
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm for Before, During & Post Tattoo Safe, Natural Tattoo Aftercare Cream Moisturizing Lotion to Promote Skin Healing, Skin Moisturizer, (2oz,1 Pack)
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm is a natural, chemical-free balm that helps to soothe and moisturize skin before, during, and after getting a tattoo. It helps to speed up the healing process and can also be used to brighten up older tattoos. The balm is easy to apply and comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

What We Like
Soothes irritation effectively
Moisturizes without greasiness
Enhances tattoo color vibrancy
Multi-purpose use for skin
Affordable compared to competitors
What We Don't Like
Inconvenient tin design
May not suit fresh tattoos
#TOP 8

Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm

HB-361-1OZ
white
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Cover
Hustle Butter Deluxe – Tattoo Butter for Before, During, and After the Tattoo Process – Lubricates and Moisturizes – 100% Vegan Replacement for Petroleum-Based Products – 1 oz
ftb score rating icon8.9
FTB Score

Hustle Butter Balm is a must-have tattoo aftercare essential with over a decade of experience in the market. It is the top choice for artists and clients alike due to its safety for new and older tattoos. Made from vegan and naturally derived ingredients, including Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, it nourishes and moisturizes the skin during the healing process. This balm, recommended by artists worldwide, ensures colors go in easier while not removing stencils or clogging tubes.

What We Like
Fast healing process
Reduces itching significantly
Smooth application and absorbs quickly
Natural and cruelty-free ingredients
Great for older tattoos
What We Don't Like
Can feel greasy initially
Pricey for small amount
#TOP 9

believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter

believa Tattoo
TBUT100
White
believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter Cover
believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter - Tattoo Balm for New & Older Tattoos - Vegan Healing Cream | 3.38 oz
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

believa Tattoo Butter is a top-rated aftercare balm from Europe, now available in the US. This vegan-friendly cream features a natural ingredient formula crafted by skin specialists, ensuring your skin stays healthy during the tattoo process. You benefit from its use at all stages: before getting inked for smooth skin, during the tattooing process for protection against clogging, and after for optimal healing. Applying a thin layer several times a day helps nourish your skin and maintain the vibrancy of your tattoos. Plus, it's free from harmful additives like petroleum and parabens, making it a safe choice for tattoo care.

What We Like
Amazing smell
Great texture
Natural ingredients
Moisturizes and brightens tattoos
Soothes itching
What We Don't Like
Contains petroleum-based PG
A bit greasy
#TOP 10

Badger Tattoo Balm - Natural Tattoo Aftercare Salve

720312
Gold
2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Badger Tattoo Balm - Natural Tattoo Aftercare Salve Cover
Badger - Tattoo Balm, Natural Tattoo Aftercare Salve, Tattooing Cream that Heals and Protects w/Coconut and Tamanu Oil, Organic Tattoo Butter 2oz Tin
ftb score rating icon8.7
FTB Score

Badger Tattoo Balm is a certified organic tattoo aftercare ointment that protects and soothes your tattoos. Made with nourishing organic Tamanu Oil and moisturizing Fair Trade Coconut Oil, it helps prevent scarring and keeps your ink looking bold and vibrant. Its restorative antioxidants come from organic Sunflower Oil, Beeswax, Olive Oil, Sunflower Vitamin A, Calendula, and Myrrh. Free of artificial ingredients, fragrances, dyes, parabens, GMOs, synthetic chemicals, or harsh ingredients, it's USDA Certified Organic and petrolatum-free.

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Super moisturizing
Easy to apply
Non-greasy feel
Brightens tattoos
What We Don't Like
Can feel slightly greasy
May cause irritation for sensitive skin
Buying Guide Image

Best Tattoo Aftercare Balms to Fullfill Your Needs

What to Consider When Choosing a Tattoo Aftercare Balm

Tattoo aftercare balms are an essential part of the tattooing process, helping to keep your new ink looking vibrant and healthy. Finding the right balm can be a challenge, though, as there are a variety of factors to consider. Here are some of the most important things to think about when selecting a tattoo aftercare balm.

Ingredients

The ingredients used in a tattoo aftercare balm will have a major impact on how effective it is. Look for balms that have natural ingredients such as shea butter, beeswax, and plant oils. These ingredients will help to soothe your skin and keep it moisturized while also keeping the tattoo from drying out and cracking. Avoid balms with synthetic fragrances, dyes, or other potentially irritating ingredients.

SPF Protection

A good tattoo aftercare balm should also provide some UV protection to help keep your tattoo looking its best. Look for balms that contain SPF (sun protection factor) to help shield your ink from the sun’s rays. This is especially important if your tattoo is in an area that is often exposed to sunlight, such as the arms or back.

Consistency

The consistency of the tattoo aftercare balm is also important. Look for balms that are not too thick or too thin. If the balm is too thick, it can be difficult to spread evenly over the tattooed area. If it’s too thin, it will not provide adequate protection. A good balm should be easy to spread and should not feel too greasy or sticky.

Price

The price of the tattoo aftercare balm should also be taken into consideration. Generally, higher priced balms will have higher quality ingredients and offer better protection. However, there are some reputable brands that offer balms at more affordable prices, so it’s worth doing some research to find the best deal.

Reviews

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews of the tattoo aftercare balm before making a purchase. Reading what other customers have to say about the balm can help you decide if it is the right one for you. It’s also worth noting that some brands offer free samples, so you can try the balm before committing to buying a full-sized product.

Choosing the right tattoo aftercare balm is essential for keeping your new ink looking vibrant and healthy. By considering the ingredients, SPF protection, consistency, price, and reviews, you can find the perfect balm for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is tattoo balm good for healing tattoos?

Yes, tattoo balm is beneficial for healing tattoos. It supports the natural healing process of the tattoo while keeping the colors vibrant, the linework bold, and the skin protected.

2. Should you put lotion or balm on a new tattoo?

After the initial dressing and ointment healing phase, it is still necessary to apply products to a new tattoo for proper and efficient healing. An unscented lotion is a lighter option that can be used.

3. Does Aquaphor make tattoos fade?

There is no official study on the extent to which Aquaphor can remove or fade tattoo ink. Some tattoo artists claim that they have not seen ink loss in clients who use Aquaphor, but it's important to consider this with caution.

4. When can I start using balm on my tattoo?

You can start using tattoo balm when a new layer of skin has emerged and you have moved past the flaky or milky stage of the healing process. The tattoo should no longer be sensitive to the touch, and you should feel comfortable resuming your regular activities.

5. When should I switch my tattoo from balm to lotion?

You should switch from using balm to lotion after several days to a week of following the washing-drying-ointment routine for your tattoo. This transition usually occurs after the initial healing phase.

Editor's Notes

During our tattoo aftercare balm research, we found 48 tattoo aftercare balm products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 336,745 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tattoo aftercare balms list. We found that most customers choose tattoo aftercare balms with an average price of $13.09.

The tattoo aftercare balms are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tattoo aftercare balms, including Hustle Butter Deluxe, Mad Rabbit, Tattoo Goo, WONDER FAMILY, Viking Revolution. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 550 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Tattoo Aftercare Balms Comparison Table

#TOP1
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Balm Cover
#TOP2
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream Cover
#TOP3
Tattoo Goo Aftercare Kit Cover
#TOP4
Mad Rabbit Enhance Tattoo Balm Stick Cover
#TOP5
Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Stick Cover
#TOP6
Tattoo Balm Aftercare Stick by WONDER FAMILY Cover
#TOP7
Viking Revolution Tattoo Care Balm Cover
#TOP8
Hustle Butter Tattoo Balm Cover
#TOP9
believa Tattoo Aftercare Butter Cover
#TOP10
Badger Tattoo Balm - Natural Tattoo Aftercare Salve Cover
BrandHustle Butter DeluxeMad RabbitTattoo GooMad RabbitHustle Butter DeluxeWONDER FAMILYViking RevolutionHustle Butter Deluxebelieva TattooBadger
Item Volume150 Milliliters1.7 Fluid Ounces-21.6 Fluid Ounces2.5 Fluid Ounces2 Fluid Ounces30 Milliliters100 Milliliters-
Age Range (Description)AdultAdult-AdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdult-
Item dimensions L x W x H2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 inches1.26 x 2.4 x 2.44 inches-3.25 x 1 x 1 inches--1.14 x 2.87 x 2.87 inches2 x 2 x 1.75 inches2.76 x 2.76 x 1.57 inches-
Special Feature-Hydrating-Travel SizeTravel SizeNatural oil blend, Tinted balm, standout, Biotin & hydration boost, Convenient stick design, Unique, pleasant fragrance-Travel Size, Natural Ingredients, Cruelty Free, Vegan--
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.7
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.0
ftb score rating icon8.9
ftb score rating icon8.8
ftb score rating icon8.7
Where to Buy