When I first started getting tattooed, one of my main concerns was how to best care for a new piece. Since a fresh tattoo leaves the skin vulnerable and irritated, it is important to make sure that it receives lots of TLC! First and foremost, I learned you must keep your new tattoo clean. Secondly, ensuring your skin remains moisturized can help keep the skin soft and malleable as it repairs. For topical care, I knew I wanted something that was all-natural and that offered a soothing element to help contend with those scabby, itchy moments that arise after getting a tattoo. To this end, I decided that a balm was the way to go and have not looked back. There are numerous products on the market to help with tattoo aftercare that have been greatly helpful to me. However, with a tattoo appointment fast approaching and being the DIY fan that I am, I decided to take a crack at crafting my own tattoo balm!
My goal for this recipe was to keep it simple, absorbable, and supportive to the tattoo healing process. Jojoba and coconut oil stood out as ideal choices for the base, jojoba oil is easily absorbed and discourages pore clogging, while unrefined coconut oil is famed for having antimicrobial properties that may help to keep the area clean. The addition of shea butter and beeswax add a long-lasting and deeply moisturizing effect. Meanwhile, calendula infused oil and lavender essential oil throw some quintessential botanical allyship into the mix. Since I wanted this balm to be gentle and essential oils can become overpowering, I used approximately a .5% dilution rate for the lavender. The end result is luxuriously smooth, easy to apply, and faintly scented. In short, just what I was looking for. I hope you enjoy it!
*Please note that it is crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. We recommend consulting with your artist before using this balm.
Makes about 7.5 ounces of balm.
Ingredients
Directions
Use as directed by your tattoo artist or gently spread a light layer of the balm onto freshly inked skin throughout the day using clean hands (making sure not to disturb any scabs). Avoid leaving overly thick layers of balm on surface of skin to allow for maximum air flow.
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