can aquaphor be used as sunscreen

Is Aquaphor Good for Tattoos?

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting and creative way to express yourself, but the journey doesn’t end at the tattoo parlor. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your new ink heals beautifully and retains its vibrancy for years to come. Among the many products available for tattoo aftercare, Aquaphor often finds its way into the conversation. But is Aquaphor good for tattoos? In this article, we’ll delve into the benefits, potential drawbacks, and alternatives to help you make the best choice for keeping your tattoo looking its best

What is Aquaphor?

Aquaphor is a popular over-the-counter skin care product known for its excellent moisturizing and protective properties. Its primary ingredients include petrolatum (41%), mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol (also known as provitamin B5), glycerin, and bisabolol. Petrolatum and mineral oil serve as occlusive agents, creating a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and protect it from external irritants. Cerin acts as a wax-like substance, while lanolin alcohol helps soothe and soften the skin. Panthenol and glycerin contribute to hydration and skin conditioning, while bisabolol, derived from chamomile, offers anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.

Aquaphor is widely used for various skin concerns, including dryness, chapped lips, minor cuts, burns, and as a post-tattoo or post-procedure skin healing aid.

Is Aquaphor Good for Tattoos?

Yes, Aquaphor is often recommended as a post-tattoo ointment and is considered beneficial for tattoo aftercare. A study published in the journal Tattoo Medicine in 2020 found that Aquaphor was an effective moisturizer for tattoos. The study found that Aquaphor helped to keep the tattoo hydrated and protected, and it also helped to reduce the risk of infection. Aquaphor contains panthenol, which is a provitamin of vitamin B5 that helps to soothe the skin and promote healing.

Protects the Tattoo from Bacteria and Infection

When you get a tattoo, the skin is left vulnerable with an open wound that requires protection from bacteria and infection. Aquaphor can help with this as it forms a protective layer over the tattoo to prevent any possible contamination.

Keeps the Tattoo Moisturized

Tattooing can leave the skin dry and flaky, so it’s essential to keep it moisturized. Aquaphor is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, which can cause breakouts. It also keeps the skin hydrated, which promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of scabbing.

Reduces Scarring

Research published in the journal Advances in Skin & Wound Care in 2020 found that Aquaphor was effective at reducing the appearance of scabbing and peeling on tattoos. The research also concluded that Aquaphor helped to improve the overall appearance of healed tattoos.

Drawbacks

While Aquaphor is a widely used ointment for tattoo aftercare, it comes with some considerations. Aquaphor is also a very heavy ointment, and it can clog pores. This can be a problem for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Additionally, Aquaphor can trap bacteria under the skin, which can lead to infection. In fact, not everyone’s skin reacts positively to Aquaphor. Some people experience allergic reactions, rashes, or breakouts when using it. 

Does aquaphor fade tattoos? There have been reports of Aquaphor causing ink loss in tattoos. This issue most often occurs with newer tattoos and tattoos with more delicate lines. This is due to the ointment not allowing the skin to breathe correctly, leading to scabbing and peeling.

How much should you use?

When using Aquaphor for tattoo aftercare, it is important to use a thin layer. You should be able to see the skin underneath the Aquaphor, but it should not be shiny or sticky. If you use too much Aquaphor, it can clog pores and trap bacteria, which can lead to infection.

Here is a good rule of thumb: use enough Aquaphor to coat the tattoo without obscuring the skin underneath. You should be able to see the colors and details of your tattoo through the Aquaphor.

If you are unsure how much Aquaphor to use, it is better to err on the side of caution and use less. You can always add more Aquaphor later if needed.

Here are some tips for applying Aquaphor to your tattoo:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Clean the tattoo area with a mild soap and water.
  • Pat the tattoo area dry with a clean towel.
  • Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor to the tattoo.
  • Rub the Aquaphor into the skin until it is absorbed.
  • Repeat steps 3-5 every few hours, or as needed.

how long to use aquaphor for tattoos

The duration for which you should use Aquaphor for your tattoo largely depends on the specific healing stages and your skin’s individual response. Typically, Aquaphor is recommended for the initial stages of tattoo healing, which usually span the first 3 to 4 days after getting inked. During this time, it helps to keep the tattooed area well-moisturized, preventing it from drying out and forming scabs prematurely. To use Aquaphor effectively, apply a thin layer to the tattooed skin several times a day, following the instructions provided by your tattoo artist or dermatologist.

After the initial 3 to 4 days, you can gradually transition to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion designed for sensitive skin. This transition phase typically lasts for another 1 to 2 weeks, or until your tattoo appears fully healed. It’s important to note that the exact timing can vary depending on individual healing rates and the size and complexity of the tattoo. If your tattoo is still feeling dry or irritated after 3-4 days, you can continue to use Aquaphor for a few more days. However, if your tattoo is healing well, you can switch to a lotion sooner.

Throughout the healing process, continue to keep the tattoo clean and well-hydrated, and always follow the aftercare recommendations provided by your tattoo artist to ensure the best results and prevent complications.

Aquaphor alternatives

Fragrance-Free Lotion

Many people switch from ointments like Aquaphor to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion after the initial healing stage. Look for a lotion that is specifically designed for sensitive or dry skin to keep the tattoo moisturized without clogging pores.

Tattoo-Specific Aftercare Products

Tattoo artists often recommend tattoo-specific aftercare products, which can include creams, lotions, or ointments specifically formulated to aid in tattoo healing. These products are designed to provide the right balance of moisture and protection.

Coconut Oil

Some individuals opt for organic, unrefined coconut oil as a natural alternative. It provides hydration and contains antimicrobial properties that can help protect the tattoo from infection.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is another natural option that can provide moisture and nourishment to the skin. Like coconut oil, it’s essential to choose a pure, unrefined product without added fragrances or chemicals.

Panthenol-Based Products

Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a common ingredient in skincare products. Creams or lotions containing panthenol can promote skin healing and hydration.

Fragrance-Free Petroleum Jelly

Similar to Aquaphor, fragrance-free petroleum jelly can create a protective barrier while keeping the tattoo moisturized.

Other aftercare tips

Avoid Sun Exposure

UV rays can cause fading and damage to the tattooed skin. If you must be in the sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and keep the tattoo covered with loose clothing.

Avoid soaking your tattoo in water

Submerging your tattoo in water can introduce bacteria and impede the healing process. Once the tattoo is fully healed, consider applying a waterproof sunscreen before swimming to protect the ink from fading.

Don’t Pick or Scratch

It’s natural for your tattoo to scab and peel as part of the healing process. However, resist the urge to pick, scratch, or peel off scabs. Let them fall off naturally to avoid damaging the tattoo and reducing the risk of infection.

Wear Loose Clothing

Opt for loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area to minimize friction and irritation. Tight clothing can rub against the tattoo and slow down the healing process.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Proper hydration and a balanced diet can support overall skin health and contribute to faster healing. Drinking enough water and consuming nutrient-rich foods can help your body repair the tattooed skin more efficiently.

FAQs

  1. Can I use Aquaphor if I have sensitive skin? Aquaphor can cause skin irritation in some people with sensitive skin. It’s essential to have a patch test before applying it to a new tattoo.
  2. How often should I apply Aquaphor to my tattoo? It’s recommended to apply Aquaphor to your tattoo 2-3 times per day for the first 2-3 days after getting your tattoo.
  3. Can I swim or shower while using Aquaphor on my tattoo? It’s recommended to avoid swimming and showering for the first few days after getting your tattoo. Once you begin applying lotion or ointment to your tattoo, you can shower and swim, but be sure to pat dry gently afterward.

Final Takeaway

Whether or not to use Aquaphor for tattoos depends on personal preference and skin type. While it has its benefits and drawbacks, there are also alternatives to consider. It’s recommended to patch test before applying any new product to your tattoo and to follow aftercare instructions carefully to ensure proper healing. Remember, taking care of your tattoo properly is essential for its longevity and appearance.

18 Best SPF Lip Balms for This Summer

Of course, keeping our lips moisturized is important but how about protecting them from the sun. Therefore, don’t forget to apply some SPF balm to your lips while you’re applying the best sunscreen for your face because they are also susceptible to UV damage. In fact, your lips are even more vulnerable to UV damage because they lack melanin. Sure, you may use any SPF cream to protect yourself, but how can you tell which is the best? Not to worry. We can help with our selection of 18 best SPF lip balms.

Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30

This lip balm is really creamy and moisturizes lips while also protecting them from UV rays. Aloe and cocoa butter in the foundation are to thank for the incredible hydration. The lip-smacking fruity flavors—coconut, pineapple, banana, pomegranate, key lime, and mango—are perhaps the finest part, and they are reason enough to keep swiping this on. For extra protection, apply it over any lip color or use it alone. But if it gets too hot, it can quickly melt, so this one is absolutely not for people who live in hot climates.

Aquaphor Lip Protectant & Sunscreen Ointment SPF 30

This lip balm is actually available in your neighborhood pharmacy, and it’s arguably one of the best choices there. This Broad Spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen lip balm from Aquaphor is designed with soothing vitamins and shea butter. It is especially beneficial for people with sensitive skin because it is fragrance- and preservative-free. Have I mentioned how cheap and accessible it is? However, it contains petroleum, which some people might find a big turn-off.

W3ll People Lip Butter SPF 15 Tinted Balm

It makes sense that you might want to choose a lip balm with fewer components given that we invariably consume some of the products we apply to our lips. This one is appropriate because it uses a variety of organic oils to hydrate. Given that many lip cosmetics employ chemical sunscreen components, it is uncommon for sun protection to be natural, non-micronized mineral zinc. It is offered in three different colors: clear, two-tone, and colored.

Carmex Classic Medicated Lip Balm SPF 15

Carmex lip balms are a classic that I bet we have all used. Pick up a ton and keep one in every pocket, purse, and so on. It is the original, well-liked version with SPF 15 sun protection in addition to camphor and menthol to help heal chapped lips. The affordable Carmex Classic Medicated lip balm performs wonderfully in both the winter and the summer. We must warn you that not everyone will find the camphor and menthol aroma pleasant.

Clé de Peau UV Protective Lip Treatment

This product is more of a lip treatment than a simple lip balm, as the name would imply. The ingredient list resembles that of a high-end moisturizer and includes a variety of herbs and botanicals along with ingredients including Japanese pearl, which evens skin tone, and theanine. While antioxidants and sunscreen provide the required protection, these all function in concert to enhance the appearance of lips. This doubles as an excellent lipstick primer and has a delicate, refined natural rose smell.

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Repairing Balm

The La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Repairing Balm, one of the most traditional lip balms on the market, not only soothes sore and chapped lips but also offers broad spectrum UV protection with SPF 50. It slides across the lips, leaving them feeling incredibly moisturized and comfortable.

Ultra Violette Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm SPF50

This lip balm, which comes in six hues, protects lips from UVA and UVB rays while also being loaded with moisturizing nutrients. Shea butter and vitamin E calm sore lips while cacao seed butter and lanolin lock in moisture. It has more of a lip gloss texture than a balm. When applied, the color isn’t very noticeable, which may put off certain buyers.

Paula’s Choice Lip Balm SPF50

This SPF, which is suitable for sensitive lips, contains avobenzone, one of the most extensively used UVA filters worldwide, to shield your skin from harmful rays. Shea butter and nutritious olive oil are also included. If you prioritize hydration, the texture and finish of this one will now satisfy you.

Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF30

This strong lotion, which is made with white meadowfoam and blackcurrant oil, is conveniently packaged for travel but also works great for daily usage. This nourishing product reduces inflammation and smooths the surface of the lips for a soft and seductive look, regardless of the weather, in addition to providing protection against sun damage, drying, and chapping. However, you should look at other possibilities if you want a lip balm that may last a long time.

Malin + Goetz SPF30 Lip Balm High Protection

The SPF 30 Lip Balm – High Protection from MALIN + GOETZ replenishes moisture to parched lips and is the effective remedy you’ve been seeking for to prevent cracking, chapping, and dryness. Fatty acids and nutrients derived from plant proteins are added to the gel mix to provide intensive nourishing and long-lasting moisturizing protection. Because it could cause white casts, this lip balm is not the ideal choice for people with darker skin.

Mavala Tinted Berry Lip Balm

This Mavala alternative is tinted for a hint of color and provides modest sun protection with a buttery-soft shea butter balm. Although SPF15, which is provided, isn’t the best degree of protection we’ve discovered, it should be sufficient for the majority of people to run their daily errands and brief periods of time in the sun.

Supergoop Lipshade 100% Mineral SPF 30 Hydrating Lipstick

We highly recommend this lip color because of its smooth composition and 100 percent mineral SPF protection. It is a pigmented lip color that also functions as a sunscreen. We like that it has a light peppermint flavor and is available in four rose and terracotta colors that may be built up for a flash of color on the lips. Despite having nutritious components like mango and shea butter, the composition is not the most hydrating, but it is simple to layer with moisturizing lip creams.

Vacation Bananas Foster SPF 30 Lip Balm

Vacation is renowned for producing extremely powerful and delicious-smelling sun protection products. They follow suit with their protective lip balm, which offers a respectable degree of SPF 30 along with an enticingly sweet smell and flavor. Another plus is the extremely creamy, non-greasy texture. Also available are additional flavors that bring back memories, including strawberry jello salad, after-dinner mint, and others. Although the scent is pleasant, some people may find it to be too strong.

Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 50

Before your next outdoor run, swim, or game of beach volleyball, be sure to swipe this on. Yes, it hydrates, but more significantly, it offers an outstanding SPF 50 to guard against sunburn when exercising. Not to mention that it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so if you are swimming or perspiring, you won’t need to worry about reapplying it. On your lips, though, it has a little waxy feeling.

Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soother Gloss with SPF 20

This lip moisturizer gloss relieves dry, chapped lips right away upon touch and shields them with a calming, cooling hydrogel formula that helps retain moisture. The broad-spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen is combined with glycerin, cucumber, and chamomile to provide intense hydration in the sun protection gloss. There is a slight tingling feeling after application, which not everyone may prefer.

O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair SPF 35 Lip Balm Stick

Your lips will remain moisturized and protected even while relaxing poolside thanks to O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair SPF 35. This lip balm earned the title of our favorite water-resistant SPF lip balm because of its formula’s 80-minute water resistance. And yes, it does function. We adore how compact the tube is, making it very portable and simple to put in your pocket or a small purse, in addition to its nutritious water-repellent ingredients. However, people who like unscented items won’t find it to be ideal.

Burts Bees Sun Care Lip Balm 3-Pack

The tinted lip balms shield your lips from UVA and UVB rays with a Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Zinc Oxide composition that is nano-free. These balms leave a matte finish and have a thicker, creamier texture. Compared to the original tinted lip balm colors, the colors are bolder. If you’re into sustainable beauty, this is the lip balm for you because it’s not only the best tinted SPF lip balm, but it also doubles as the finest reef-safe sunscreen for your lips. Although many are aware of its pigmentation, many are not.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Lip Shine SPF 35

You may make Colorescience’s SPF lip shine by taking your favorite pink lip gloss and adding SPF 35 to it. The four rosy and pale pink hues of this lovely lip shine are not too overpowering in color, but just enough to let you know it’s there. The lip gloss has a peppermint-like aroma when you first open it and separate the wand from the bottle. Your lips will tingle for about 15 seconds after that. This sensation makes me question if the peptide component of the gloss is what moisturizes and calms your lips. People who don’t want to spend a lot of money on lip balm will be turned off by the fact that this one is on the more expensive side.

Even if you follow a good SPF skin care regimen, you probably neglect to take care of your lips. The mouth often goes unnoticed, necessitating even more attention from the absence of attentive sun-protectant care even though every part of the body is vulnerable to dangerous UV radiation. With this list, you may choose one for yourself without having to spend a lot of money on numerous items.