After receiving a new tattoo, the process isn’t finished; you must look after your fresh tattoo for weeks. This time is when the skin heals from the trauma caused by the tattoo, and you must care for your new piece during this period for your tattoo to heal properly.
An important step in this process is applying a moisturizer to keep your skin healthy as it heals. Many people prefer using coconut oil because it is recommended by tattoo artists and dermatologists, but some are hesitant because it has other uses (inside and out) beyond being a moisturizer. So, can you safely put coconut oil on your skin?
Coconut oil is all the rage right now. People are using it for everything from cooking to skincare. So, it’s no surprise that people are wondering if it can be used on tattoos as well. In this blog post, we will explore whether or not coconut oil is good for tattoos and provide some tips on how to use it safely if you decide to give it a try!
Is Coconut Oil Safe For Your Tattoo?
Some people believe that using coconut oil on their tattoos will help to keep the area moisturized and reduce the risk of infection. Coconut oil can also be used as a natural sunscreen, providing some protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Benefits Of Using Coconut Oil On Your Tattoo:
You Can Use It At Any Stage Of The Tattoo Process
Coconut oil can be used at any stage of the tattoo process, from the initial outline to the final shading. It’s a good idea to have some on hand in case you need to touch up your tattoo later on.
Ink will glide over your skin more smoothly when you use coconut oil, which means that your tattoo artist will be able to work more quickly and efficiently. This can help reduce the overall cost of your tattoo [2].
It’s Antimicrobial
Coconut oil is antimicrobial, which means it can help protect your tattoo from infection. It’s also very soothing, so it can help reduce the discomfort and itching that often comes with new tattoos. If you do develop an infection, coconut oil can help speed up the healing process. Simply apply it to the affected area several times a day until the infection clears up.
It’s Anti-Inflammatory
Coconut oil can also help to heal your tattoo faster. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory agent, so it can help to reduce swelling and redness. Coconut oil is also known for its antibacterial properties, which can help to prevent infection.
It Highly Moisturizes The Skin
Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer. It can help to keep your tattooed skin hydrated, which is important for the healing process. Coconut oil can also help to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Applying coconut oil to your tattoo will also make it look shiny and new for longer. If you want your tattoo to look fresh, applying a thin layer of coconut oil every few days is a good idea. You can even use it as a natural sunscreen.
A Little Goes A Long Way
It’s Safe For Sensitive Skin
Coconut oil is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. If you have any allergies or sensitivities, be sure to test the oil on a small area of your skin before applying it to your tattoo.
It’s All Natural
Coconut oil is an all-natural product, so you can feel good about using it on your skin. It’s also very affordable, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly tattoo aftercare solution. Pure, fragrance- and chemical-free coconut oil can help reduce the likelihood of irritation and infection.
It’s Not Tested On Animals Coconut oil is not tested on animals, so you can rest assured that no animals were harmed in the making of your tattoo aftercare product.
It’s Easily Accessible
Coconut oil is widely available and can be found at most grocery stores. You can also find it online. Be sure to buy pure, unrefined coconut oil for the best results.
It’s Affordable
Coconut oil is very affordable, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly tattoo aftercare solution. A small jar of coconut oil will last you a long time, so you’ll get your money’s worth.
It Can Be Bought In Bulk
If you know you’ll be using coconut oil for a while, you can buy it in bulk. This will save you money in the long run and ensure that you always have some on hand.
It’s Versatile
Fights Free Radicals
Coconut oil can help to fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. This is important for healing your tattoo and keeping it looking its best.
If you’re looking for a natural and effective tattoo aftercare solution, coconut oil is a good option to consider. It has many benefits and can help to keep your tattoo looking its best. Be sure to talk to your tattoo artist before using coconut oil on your tattoo, as they may have their preferred method of aftercare.
Vitamin E and K
Coconut oil is high in vitamins, which are essential nutrients. These can contribute to strong hearts, healthy bones, and attractive skin. Both vitamins E and K are fat-soluble chemicals. They may be found in foods like leafy vegetables, almonds, fruits, and fish as well as coconut oil.
When we extract these vitamins, we obtain an oil-soluble vitamin that is far more substantial than water. Applying them to the skin can help restore moisture that has been lost and maintain the region healthier.
Vitamin K is known to trigger a natural process of blood clotting in wounds, which may work better when consumed rather than applied topically. However, direct application to the skin can still promote a healthy healing process, especially when combined with vitamin E.
Potential Side Effects And Risks of Coconut Oil:
- Allergic reactions. Some people may be allergic to coconut oil. If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling after applying coconut oil to your skin, wash it off immediately and see a doctor if the symptoms persist;
- Clogged pores. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, using coconut oil on your face could clog your pores and make your breakouts worse. It’s best to avoid using it on your face or only use it in very small amounts;
- Hypopigmentation. You might experience irritation, redness, or rashes if you use high-fat products like coconut oil on new tattoos. If you’re allergic to such products, don’t put them on your tattoo. Always consult a dermatologist before changing anything about your current skincare routine;
- Excessive dryness. While coconut oil can help improve dry skin, using too much of it can make your skin even drier. If you find that your skin is excessively dry after using coconut oil, try using less of it or applying it only to very dry areas;
- Infection. There is a small risk of infection if you use coconut oil on open wounds or broken skin. It’s best to avoid using it in these areas or only use it with clean hands and under sterile conditions;
How To Use Coconut Oil For Tattoo Aftercare:
1) Buy New Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil is the best type to use for your tattoo, and we’ll explain why in more detail momentarily. However, if you don’t have any virgin coconut oil on hand, don’t worry – you can easily purchase some from a store. Just remember to buy a new pot or tube of it specifically for your tattoo [5].
Additionally, make sure that you always clean both your hands and the tattoo before coming into contact with the coconut oil. This ensures that your tattoo will not become infected by bacteria or other contaminants. If your tattoo is new and still healing, this is especially important!
2) Test Patch
If there is no reaction, you should be good to use it on your tattoo! Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so even if you have used coconut oil before without any problems, it is still important to do a patch test before applying it to your tattoo.
3) Apply A Thin Layer
Once you have determined that you can safely use coconut oil on your tattoo, it is time to apply it. Make sure to only put on a thin layer – you don’t want your tattoo to be dripping with oil. If necessary, you can always put on more later.
It is also important to note that you should not apply coconut oil directly after getting your tattoo. Allow the initial healing process to occur before starting to use any type of ointment or cream, including coconut oil. In general, it is best to wait at least 24 hours before applying anything other than plain water or unscented soap to your new tattoo.
4) Reapply When Needed
After you have applied a thin layer of coconut oil to your tattoo, you will need to reapply it several times throughout the day. How often you need to do this will depend on how dry your tattoo is – if it starts to look flaky or feels tight, that is a good indication that it needs more moisture.
As mentioned earlier, virgin coconut oil is the best type of oil to use for your tattoo. This is because it contains fewer impurities than other types of coconut oil, which means that there is less risk of irritation or infection.
If you are using virgin coconut oil, there is no need to worry about it going bad – unlike other oils, it has an incredibly long shelf life and will not go rancid.
How Soon Can I Use Coconut Oil On My New Tattoo?
Coconut oil can be applied to a new tattoo as soon as it is healed. Keep in mind that every tattoo heals differently. Some people may experience more irritation and redness than others. If you have any concerns, consult your tattoo artist or dermatologist.
When applying coconut oil to a new tattoo, be sure to use a clean, sterile cotton ball or Q-tip. Gently apply the oil in a circular motion until the area is lightly coated. Apply the oil three times daily for the first week, then two times daily for the second week. After that, you can reduce applications to once daily.
Will Coconut Oil Fade The Tattoo?
Not only is this helpful for older tattoos, but it also prevents the ink from fading so your tattoo will look new for a much longer time. Coconut oil can also help to soothe the skin if your tattoo is healing and itchy. Simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to the tattooed area two or three times a day until the itching subsides [6].
How Many Times Can I Use Coconut Oil On My Tattoo?
When applying coconut oil to a new tattoo, be sure to use a very small amount and massage it into the skin gently. Avoid using too much pressure or rubbing the area vigorously, as this could irritate the skin and delay healing. Reapply as needed throughout the day for best results.
If you have any concerns about using coconut oil on your tattoo, speak to your artist or dermatologist for advice.
FAQ:
- Is Palmer’s coconut oil good for tattoos?
Palmer’s coconut oil is generally considered safe to use on tattoos, but there are a few things to keep in mind [7]:
- First, make sure you’re not allergic to coconut oil by doing a patch test before applying it to your tattoo;
- Second, be sure to only use a small amount of coconut oil and avoid getting it too close to the tattooed area;
- Lastly, remember that coconut oil will need to be reapplied often as it will eventually wear off;
If you’re looking for an alternative to coconut oil, consider trying jojoba oil or shea butter. These oils are also known for their skin-nourishing properties and can help keep your tattoo looking healthy and vibrant.
- Does coconut oil expire?
Coconut oil has an estimated shelf life of 18-36 months for refined coconut oil and three to five years for virgin coconut oil. However, these are just estimates. To extend the shelf life of coconut oil, it is best to store it in a cool, dark place like the pantry. You can also refrigerate or freeze coconut oil to make it last longer [8].
- Can bacteria grow in coconut oil?
Bacteria can grow in coconut oil, but the growth is inhibited by the low moisture content and high saturated fat content of the oil. The antibacterial properties of coconut oil make it an effective topical treatment for acne and other skin conditions.
The fatty acids in coconut oil can also help to heal dry, cracked skin. When applied to tattoos, coconut oil can help to keep the tattooed area hydrated and prevent the ink from fading. Coconut oil is also a good choice for people with sensitive skin, as it is less likely to irritate other oils.
Coconut oil is available for purchase online and in stores that sell health and beauty products.
- Is coconut oil a natural antibiotic that will protect my new tattoo?
The jury is still out on this one. Some people swear by using coconut oil as an all-natural way to heal their new tattoos, while others say it does more harm than good. If you’re considering using coconut oil on your tattoo, it’s important to do your research and talk to your artist first.
- Should coconut oil be solid or liquid when used to heal a new tattoo?
The ideal sort of coconut oil for treating tattoos is virgin or fractionated coconut oil. Virgin oil has been proven to be more effective than refined coconut oil in wound healing and retention of skin moisture, which makes it the best choice for tattooed skin [9].
- What type of coconut oil should I choose to apply to my new tattoo?
When it comes to choosing coconut oil for your tattoo, you want to make sure you’re getting the best quality possible. You should always choose organic, virgin, or fractionated coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil is more effective than refined coconut oil in wound healing and retention of skin moisture. Fractionated coconut oil is a type of coconut oil that has been distilled to remove long-chain fatty acids, leaving only healthy medium-chain fatty acids. This makes it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.
- How do you know if you over-moisturize a tattoo?
If your tattoo is constantly seeping clear fluid and/or seems to be “weeping” plasma, you are over-moisturizing it. Your tattoo will also feel soggy or spongy to the touch, and the colors may appear muted. If you think you might be over-moisturizing your tattoo, stop using any lotion or cream for a few days; just clean it with soap and water. If the weeping stops, you were probably using too much product.
- How do I take care of my tattoo during the first week?
Use a mild antibacterial cleanser and water to clean the tattoo. Pat dry after washing. Apply two applications of antibacterial/Vaseline ointment twice a day, but don’t put on another bandage. Twice a day, gently wash your tattoo with soap and water before patting it dry again [10].
- What should you not put on a new tattoo?
You should avoid using any oils on your new tattoo, as this can trap bacteria and lead to infection. Coconut oil is no exception. Coconut oil can delay the healing process and cause your tattoo to fade. So, if you’re looking for a product to keep your tattoo looking its best, stick to lotions or ointments specifically designed for tattoos.
- What can ruin a tattoo?
There are a few things that can ruin a tattoo, such as poor aftercare, excessive sun exposure, and using harsh chemicals on the area. However, one of the most common ways that tattoos can be ruined is by picking at them. Picking at your tattoo can cause it to bleed, blister, and peel. It can also lead to infection.
- Should you keep a tattoo moist or dry?
Regularly moisturizing your tattoo is critical. You should moisturize your clean tattoo three to six times per day for about two weeks (though proper skin care is always important, and most tattoo enthusiasts moisturize their tattoos daily for life) [11].
- Should I moisturize my tattoo while it’s peeling?
Yes, you should! Peeling is part of the tattoo healing process. During this time, your skin will be extra dry and flaky. Moisturizing will help to speed up the peeling process and keep your skin healthy.
There are a few different ways to moisturize your tattoo:
- Lotions are typically the lightest in consistency and easiest to apply, but they may not provide enough moisture for a new tattoo;
- Ointments and creams are thicker and can be more difficult to apply, but they will usually provide more moisture;
- When can I start using lotion on my tattoo?
You can start using lotion on your tattoo as soon as it starts to heal, which is usually about three to five days after you get the tattoo. Be sure to use a lotion that is unscented and alcohol-free. Apply the lotion sparingly, as too much can dry out your tattoo. Coconut oil is a popular natural alternative to commercial moisturizers. It has many benefits for the skin, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Coconut oil is also known for its ability to speed up wound healing.
Useful Video: Coconut Oil on Tattoo – Is Coconut Oil Good for Tattoos?
References:
- https://www.savedtattoo.com/coconut-oil-for-tattoos
- https://www.byrdie.com/coconut-oil-on-a-tattoo-5114557
- https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/coconut-oil-on-tattoo#antiinflammatory
- https://authoritytattoo.com/coconut-oil-on-tattoos
- https://www.savedtattoo.com/coconut-oil-for-tattoos
- https://www.byrdie.com/coconut-oil-on-a-tattoo-5114557
- https://www.palmers.com/blog/is-cocoa-butter-good-for-tattoos-n18
- https://wildlyorganic.com/blogs/recipes/coconut-oil-s-shelf-life
- https://authoritytattoo.com/coconut-oil-on-tattoos
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/taking-care-of-your-tattoo
- https://majestictattoonyc.com/tattoo-aftercare