Jergens For Tattoos: [Smart] Aftercare Or Risky Business?

As you navigate the crucial healing process of your new tattoo, keeping it hydrated is key. A common question that pops up is, “can i use jergens on my tattoo?”

Jergens is a popular brand of lotion known for its moisturizing properties, but is jergens lotion safe for your new ink?

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons, scrutinize the ingredients, and provide guidance on when and how to use such products on your tattoo.

Also Read: How To Apply Tattoo Stencil Without Deodorant Like A Pro

Is Jergens Good For Tattoos?

Jergens is a legend in the world of body lotions, offering affordable, no-fuss care for generations.

Its range of products, from moisturizers to cleansers, has been used for various medicinal purposes to soothe burns, cuts, and scrapes.

Some of its plant-based ingredients are known for healing properties and vitamin C to protect the skin.

However, while Jergens is celebrated for its mild, antiseptic qualities that can prevent infection, and its light, non-greasy formula that’s easily absorbed by the skin, not all its lotions are suited for tattoo aftercare.

Some products contain petrolatum and alcohol, which can strip away moisture from wounds and are considered BAD for the healing process of tattoos.

So, while many users find Jergens hydrating and effective for general skin irritation, it’s vital to choose a product specifically designed for tattoo aftercare to ensure optimal healing.

Can You Put Jergens On A New Tattoo?

For fresh tattoos, it’s not recommended to use Jergens healing lotion or any of its variants until the new tattoo has naturally healed.

The ingredients in many of their products may not be suitable for sensitive, healing skin.

is jergens lotion safe

Jergens Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s examine the ingredients of the Jergens ultra healing tattoo lotion, identifying the beneficial and potentially harmful ingredients, and analyze them more closely.

Good For TattoosNot SureBad For Tattoos
GlycerinLaureth-3Petrolatum
Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C)Aluminum Starch OctenylsuccinateAlcohol
DimethiconeCeteareth-20
Cetearyl AlcoholStearic Acid
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Here is the complete list of ingredients with detailed information about their properties. Let’s explore each one individually:

Also Read: Don’t Ruin Your Ink! Learn What Lotion Not To Use On A New Tattoo

Jergens Ingredients Detail And Functions

Here is a detailed chart that categorizes and explains the ingredients found in Jergens moisturizers:

IngredientFunctionConcerns
WaterSolventN/A
GlycerinHumectantN/A
Cetearyl AlcoholEmollientCan be drying for some skin types
Mineral OilEmollientCan clog pores
Cetyl-PG Hydroxyethyl PalmitamideEmollientN/A
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterEmollientGenerally safe for tattoos
PEG-100 StearateEmulsifierN/A
Glyceryl DilaurateEmollientN/A
Stearic AcidEmulsifierN/A
MethylparabenPreservativeCan cause irritation
DMDM HydantoinPreservativeCan cause irritation
FragranceScentCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Alpha-Isomethyl IononeFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Benzyl AlcoholFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Benzyl SalicylateFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Butylphenyl MethylpropionalFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
CitronellolFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
CoumarinFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
GeraniolFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Hexyl CinnamalFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene CarboxaldehydeFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
LimoneneFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions
LinaloolFragranceCan cause irritation and allergic reactions

Also Read: Unveiling The Truth: Can Tegaderm Ruin A Tattoo?

Can I Use Jergens On My Tattoo?

When considering if you can use Jergens on your tattoo, it’s essential to understand the ingredients and their effects.

Glycerin, a natural humectant in many Jergens lotions, draws moisture to the skin but can also thicken tattoo ink over time.

Dimethicone acts like a liquid bandage, protecting against airborne pathogens that might infiltrate the wound.

While Vitamin C and Vitamin E are known for their healing properties and immune system support, reducing infections and antioxidant properties that can minimize scarring, not all components are beneficial.

Cetearyl Alcohol gives a soft feeling and is stabilizing in oil-water mixes, acting as an emulsifier, but petroleum or petrolatum can trap bacteria leading to infections.

Alcohol in some Jergens products dries out wounds, potentially leading to an irritated, burning, or blistering tattoo.

Therefore, while some ingredients support healing, others might hinder it, and it’s crucial to weigh these aspects before applying it to your tattoo.

Also Read: Oops! I Accidentally Scratched My Tattoo In My Sleep – What To Do Now?

Is Jergens Shea Butter Good For Tattoos?

While Jergens is a renowned brand, its Shea Butter variant may not be the best for tattoos.

Experts typically do not recommend it, as it can risk draining ink or making colors appear dull due to its thick consistency.

Additionally, the scented nature and artificial chemicals often found in these lotions, along with even natural shea butter extracts, might inflame the tattooed area, especially when it’s freshly inked.

Compare Jergens To Three Tattoo-Specific Moisturizers

ProductFragrance-FreeAlcohol-FreePetroleum-FreeFormulated for Tattoos
JergensNoNoNoNo
AquaphorYesYesYesYes
Tattoo GooYesYesYesYes
H2OceanYesYesYesYes

Also Read: Is Bactine Good For Tattoos

Popular Jergens Products Used On Tattoo

Some Jergens products are popularly used on tattoos, but their benefit varies based on specific criteria such as the age of the new tattoo and prolonged use.

1. Jergens Ultra Healing

Jergens ultra healing tattoo lotion is a popular product known for its healing skin properties, enriched with Vitamins B5, C, and E.

However, when it comes to a new tattoo, it’s a no for its prolonged use during the first week of healing.

While it’s beneficial for normal skin and highly recommended once the tattoo has healed, due to its fragrance and ingredient like alcohol, it may potentially harm tattooed skin in its vulnerable state.

Once your tattoo has settled, it can promote healthier, moisturized skin.

2. Jergens Shea Butter Moisturizer

Jergens shea butter moisturizer is known for its ability to deeply moisturize and soothe skin, keeping it shiny and vibrant.

It’s a popular choice for maintaining a vibrant look of the skin in general. However, for a new tattoo, its prolonged use is not recommended.

The benefits of shea butter, like keeping the tattoo colors from fading and helping the colors pop out, are tempting, but the fragrances, paraben, and harmful alcohol can be dangerous, potentially clogging the skin and affecting the healing process.

Once your tattoo has healed, this moisturizer can be beneficial. It soothes pain and itching, and its properties can help prolong the tattoo’s color and fade resistance.

But until then, opting for a product specifically designed for tattoo aftercare is safer to ensure your ink remains as perfect as the day you got it.

Also Read: Can You Put Carmex On A Tattoo? Expert Answer Inside!

3. Jergens Soothing Aloe Refreshing Moisturizer

Jergens soothing aloe refreshing moisturizer is hailed for its soothing effect on normal skin, with benefits like boosting healing and reducing infection risks due to its key ingredient, aloe vera.

The cooling effect is particularly good for irritation and can significantly boost healing, especially for skin that’s stopped leaking and started settling.

However, for a new tattoo, immediate and prolonged use of this moisturizer is not recommended.

While aloe vera is generally beneficial, the fragrance and isoparaffin in the lotion can harm the tattooed skin by clogging pores and affecting the ink.

Only once your tattoo has thoroughly healed, and the skin has returned to its normal state, can you safely start using this product.

At that point, the benefits of aloe vera can help maintain the tattoo’s vibrancy and keep the skin around it healthy.

It’s crucial to monitor how your skin reacts and discontinue use if any irritation occurs.

Remember, when in doubt, consulting your tattoo artist or a dermatologist is always the best course of action.

Also Read: Tattoo Troubles? Demystifying Little Bumps On Tattoo After Healed

Can I Use Jergens After It Has Expired

4. Jergens Daily Moisture Dry Skin Moisturizer, Fragrance-Free

Jergens daily moisture dry skin moisturizer, fragrance-free is often considered a better choice for new tattoo care compared to its scented counterparts.

The lack of fragrance in this fragrance-free option reduces the risk of irritation, making it a suitable selection from the first day of your tattoo journey.

It’s particularly beneficial for peeling and scabbing skin, common issues in the healing process. While not specifically a tattoo aftercare product, its gentle nature helps maintain the skin’s moisture, crucial for a new tattoo.

For prolonged use on normal skin, it’s excellent for keeping the tattoo moisturized and preventing it from drying out.

Its gentle, fragrance-free formula makes it one of the best products you could choose for tattoo aftercare.

However, as with any skincare product, monitoring your skin’s reaction is key, especially in the early stages of tattoo healing.

Consulting with a tattoo care professional can provide additional assurance that you’re making the best choice for your new ink.

Also Read: Planning Your Ink? Discover How Long After Accutane Can You Get A Tattoo

FAQs About Can I Use Jergens On My Tattoo

1. Is Jergens Ultra Healing Lotion Good For Tattoos?

While Jergens ultra healing lotion is known for keeping skin moisturized and protected, it’s not the best choice for tattoos. The formulation might be too intense for a fresh tattoo, potentially causing inflammation or making the skin dries up faster than it should during the healing process.

2. How Often Should I Use Jergens On My Tattoo?

For a fully healed tattoo, applying Jergens daily or 2 or 3 times a day can keep your tattoo hydrated and looking good. However, ensure it’s not applied to fresh tattoos until the skin flakes off and stops being shiny.

3. Can I Use Jergens After It Has Expired?

Using any expired product, including Jergens, on your skin, and especially on tattoos, is not advisable. Always check the expiry date before applying to avoid potential skin issues.

4. Can I Use Jergens Lotion On My New Tattoo?

It’s best to avoid using Jergens lotion on a new tattoo. Instead, opt for a specialized tattoo aftercare product for the first few weeks until it’s fully healed and then use Jergens as a daily moisturizer.

5. Is Jergens Lotion Safe For Tattoos?

Jergens lotion might be safe for older, healed tattoos, but its ingredients can irritate or harm a new tattoo. Always check the ingredient list against your tattoo aftercare recommendations.

6. Can Jergens Lotion Fade My Tattoo?

Using Jergens lotion as a moisturizer on a fully healed tattoo can keep the skin moisturized and healthy, thus maintaining its vibrancy and helping to prevent fading. However, ensure it’s fully healed to avoid adverse effects.

7. Can I Use Jergens On My Tattoo Aftercare?

For tattoo aftercare, Lubriderm is often preferred over Jergens due to potential allergic reactions. Apply with clean hands a thin layer of the chosen ointment to keep the tattoo shiny but not greasy.

8. Can I Use Jergens On My Tattoo After 2 Weeks?

You might consider using Jergens on new tattoos after 2 weeks, but it’s safer to wait until your newly done tattoo is fully healed to avoid potential irritation or infection.

9. Is Jergens Ultra Healing Unscented?

Jergens ultra healing moisturizer for extra dry skin is available in a fragrance-free variant, and it’s good for the environment with a formula powered by certified renewable energy and biodegradability that is mindful of aquatic life.

10. Can I Use Jergens Lotion On My Face?

While Jergens lotion is not specifically recommend for the face, the brand does offer an all-purpose face cream. If using body creams or lotion, they’re not tested for face usage, so apply cautiously and avoid eye contact.

11. Can You Put Shea Butter On A Tattoo?

Shea butter is generally considered safe to use on tattoos due to its healing benefits for the skin. It can help keep the tattoo moist and provide nourishment to help it heal properly, especially when it’s no longer an open wound.

12. Will Shea Butter Fade Tattoos?

Shea butter is safe for use on tattoos and is unlikely to fade them. Its healing benefits and nourishment can actually aid in maintaining the tattoo’s vibrancy as the skin heals.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, whether you use Jergens on your tattoo depends largely on the specific product and your tattoo’s healing stage.

While some Jergens products can keep skin healthy and moisturized, it’s crucial to follow the instructions of your tattoo artist and ensure you’re taking care of your new ink in the right way.

“Can i use jergens on my tattoo” is a nuanced question and deserves careful consideration.

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