Tattoo care doesn’t end when you leave the studio. What you do next will determine how your art heals, ages, and stands out over time. At Mad Rabbit, we pay attention to every detail of your healing so you can protect your investment and keep your ink bold. One of the aftercare questions we often hear is: What is a tattoo cream? When should I use it? What helps my tattoo heal efficiently and vividly? Below, we’ll break down each stage (especially the critical initial stage and the infamous peeling stage) and show you how tattoo creams, soothing gels, and the latest New Tattoo Wash, in particular, fit into your aftercare journey to achieve healthy, resilient skin and beautifully healed ink.
What is tattoo cream? (Why is it different?)
Tattoo creams are more than basic moisturizers. Designed to address the barrier breakdown and hypersensitivity inherent in newly tattooed skin. The effective formula intensely hydrates, reduces visible inflammation and promotes proper repair while remaining lightweight and non-occlusive. Good creams are free of petroleum and fragrance, instead using proven botanical ingredients like shea butter, calendula oil, and vitamin E to strengthen your skin and keep it vibrant without clogging pores or fading.
Breathable invisible protection: protects against external bacteria and dirt and allows the skin to recover properly. Long-lasting hydration: Synergistic ingredients prevent flaking, spotting, and ashy tones. It has a sedative effect and reduces itching. Reduces persistent pressure, burning, and tingling (prevents the urge to scratch or peel). Supports skin barrier and repair: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, it can reduce complications and help your body recover.
Mad Rabbit’s aftercare line is a collaboration between artists and dermatologists, using only carefully selected botanicals and clean active ingredients. For more information on ingredients, please visit our Ingredient Promise page.
Stages of tattoo healing and when to use tattoo creams, soothing gels, and tattoo washes
Stage 1: First 1-14 days (critical beginning)
This is the most delicate window for new ink. Immediately after getting a tattoo, your skin will be damaged, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation. Once you get home and your artist asks you to remove the first bandage, the aftercare begins in earnest. The most important thing now is:
First cleanse: Gently wash your tattoo with an unscented tattoo cleaning solution, such as Mad Rabbit New Tattoo Wash. Harsh soaps can interfere with healing, but our gentle foaming cleansers clean effectively without stripping needed moisture or introducing irritants. Let the tattoo air dry or carefully pat dry using a clean towel. Rubbing can pull on healing tissue, which can lead to problems down the road. Apply a thin layer of tattoo-specific cream or soothing gel. Avoid petroleum-based ointments, which can restrict airflow and trap dirt. Less is more. Don’t apply too much product, just a light coating to allow the tattoo to breathe.
At this stage, Mad Rabbit Tattoo Soothing Gel is formulated to reduce swelling, heat, and discomfort while providing mild moisture without stickiness. Gentle cleansing with New Tattoo Wash keeps the affected area fresh and supports optimal recovery from day one.
Stage 2: Days 2-14 – Peeling and peeling stage
If this is your first time getting a tattoo, this step can be intimidating. Expect your tattoo to look cloudy, peeling, and falling off as your body sheds the damaged skin and exposes a healthier layer underneath. The itching increases and the urge to pick and scratch becomes a reality. Here’s what to do:
Use soothing gels: Calming gels play a powerful role at this stage. When applied regularly during peels and exfoliations, it soothes itching, reduces redness, and prevents scarring from micro-lacerations. Mad Rabbit’s cooling formula instantly relieves that creeping, tight feeling, making it less problematic and healing. Continue using Mad Rabbit New Tattoo Wash for daily tattoo cleansing to keep your new tattoo clean and comfortable. Lock in with light moisture: After the gel, apply a light layer of tattoo balm or cream to maintain hydration. For a convenient and easy-to-use option, try a tattoo balm stick. Use a soothing gel to relieve pain and a balm to lock in excess fluid, both as needed. Don’t pick, don’t pick: Resist the temptation to remove flaky skin. Keeping the affected area soothed and moisturized can help prevent scarring and uneven discoloration.
Stage 3: Healing (3rd week onwards) & Maintenance
After the first two weeks, your tattoo will appear to have healed, but beneath the surface it’s still becoming more durable. Keep the love going:
Switch to a daily tattoo-safe moisturizer (preferably unscented and lightweight). Our daily tattoo lotion is perfect for long-term care and ink preservation. Always add SPF when outdoors. Nothing fades colors faster than direct sunlight.
How do tattoo creams and soothing gels support recovery?
The unique needs for healing tattooed skin come down to some predictable issues. This is where choosing the right aftercare products is beneficial.
Spots and scabs: Maintains consistent hydration and soothes the skin, supporting even healing and a clearer, more consistent tattoo finish. Infection risk: Breathable creams and gels protect open skin from germs without trapping sweat or dirt. Itch and Irritation Control (especially during peels): During the exfoliation stage, Mud Rabbit Soothing Gel instantly reduces itchiness, making the process dramatically more comfortable. LONG-TERM COLOR PROTECTION: Proper hydration with tattoo creams and balms prevents fading and drying, giving your art vibrancy for years to come.
Ingredient Integrity: What’s in (and what’s in) good tattoo creams and gels?
You can’t just rely on lotion to support the healing process of your new tattoo. Our ingredient philosophy is:
Ingredients: Shea Butter (deep hydration), Calendula Oil (soothing), Sweet Almond Oil (softening), Aloe + Allantoin (cooling relief). Don’t: No synthetic fragrances, harsh alcohols or petroleum. These can clog, sting, and cause allergic reactions. Mud Rabbit is constantly dermatologist tested to ensure a clean, tattoo-safe formula.
How to apply tattoo cream, soothing gel, and the correct way to wash your face
Start with Mad Rabbit’s New Tattoo Wash. With clean hands, gently wash your tattoo using warm water and a small amount of wash. Rinse well and allow skin to air dry or carefully pat dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of soothing gel over your new tattoo. Especially important on days 1-14 and during peak peeling/itching. Wait a minute or two, then apply a thin layer of tattoo cream or balm, if desired, to lock in moisture and comfort. Repeat the cleansing-gel-cream routine two to three times a day, or whenever your tattoo feels dry or tight. Follow additional artist instructions. Allow your skin to breathe. Do not reroll unless recommended by your tattoo artist.
For smooth and even healing, consistency is everything, especially while the tattoo is being removed. Do not replace with regular lotion. There is a possibility that irritants may be introduced unintentionally.
Real aftercare tips from people who live with ink
Always check the ingredients of the products you use on your new tattoo. The word “fragrance-free” may hide alcohol or allergens that you want to avoid. Do not use petroleum jelly on a new tattoo. It can trap bacteria and prolong the redness. Avoid scented lotions, even natural ones, until your skin has fully healed. Start good habits early. Avoiding exposing your healed tattoo to sunlight with SPF will help prevent rapid fading.
Convenient format to suit your lifestyle
Want recovery support and hydration in a pocket-sized, no-mess format? Take our tattoo balm sticks anywhere and get instant comfort with a simple swipe over soothing gels or creams. Especially useful if you’re healing on the go.
Sensitive skin or allergies?
If you are sensitive (especially to nuts, as shea oil and almond oil are often used) please read the ingredient list. If redness or discomfort persists, consult a dermatologist before further use. We design all of our products for maximum transparency and gentleness, but everyone’s body is different.
Protect the lifespan of your tattoo for years, not just weeks
Don’t stop caring for your tattoo after the first few weeks. Regularly moisturizing with a tattoo-safe lotion and the occasional balm will keep your ink from looking dull or ashy (especially important if you have delicate fine lines or micro styles). For more information, check out our complete guide to special tattoo care: How to Care for Fine Line and Micro Tattoos.
FAQ
Should I use a soothing gel during the peeling or exfoliation stage? Absolutely. The soothing gel is specifically designed to help manage the itching and discomfort caused by peeling. Apply as needed at this stage to immediately reduce blemishes and make them less likely to scratch. Can I use New Tattoo Wash for the entire recovery process? Yes, Mad Rabbit New Tattoo Wash is formulated for the entire recovery process, from initial bandage removal to complete skin repair. Can I combine soothing gel and tattoo balm? Yes. Start with a soothing gel for a calming effect, then layer on top with a balm or cream for barrier support and hydration. The two work together, especially during exfoliation and inflammation. Is aftercare important for older tattoos? Absolutely. Consistent use of unscented, tattoo-safe moisturizers and balms, as well as SPF, can help revive even 10-year-old ink and keep it looking sharp.
The final word: Routines shape results.
How you handle your tattoo after the needle leaves your skin determines its longevity, clarity, and color effectiveness. The synergy of a clean, specialized tattoo wash, a fast-acting soothing gel, and the right balm or cream can make a huge difference, especially during the first two weeks and the peeling phase. Consistency is the key.
If you want purposefully crafted aftercare products for every step of the way, from day one to long-term maintenance, be sure to check out what Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care has to offer. Our formula was created to respect both your skin and your art, allowing you to showcase the best version of your story for as long as possible.
