Can I use CeraVe lotion on my tattoo?

Which CeraVe lotion do you mean?

A plain moisturizing lotion and an AM lotion with SPF are different choices. For healing skin, choose a simple, fragrance free moisturizer that fits your artist's aftercare plan. The Canadian CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 50 contains sunscreen, so save that formula for healed skin. Its fragrance free label does not override the instruction to avoid sunscreen during healing.24

Is CeraVe lotion good for tattoos?

A suitable lotion helps keep tattooed skin moisturized. For a healed tattoo that feels dry, use a water based lotion or cream. A water based lotion can moisturize dry tattooed skin without needing 'tattoo' printed in enormous letters on the bottle. During healing, nonperfumed lotion is also part of established aftercare, but follow the schedule for your dressing and any initial ointment rather than switching products immediately.15

How do I apply lotion to a fresh tattoo?

1. 1Keep the dressing on for the time your tattoo artist specifies. Different coverings have different removal instructions.
2. 2Wash your hands before removing the dressing. Gently wash the exposed tattoo with warm water and fragrance free soap, without scrubbing.
3. 3Pat the area dry with a clean towel and allow the skin to dry before applying the recommended moisturizer or ointment.
4. 4Wash and moisturize twice daily during the first month unless your aftercare plan specifies otherwise. Morning and evening is a practical way to arrange those two applications.

Wear loose, breathable clothing over the area. Do not pick scabs, pull off flakes, exfoliate the tattoo or soak it in a bath, pool or hot tub while it heals. Once healed, apply moisturizer as needed for dryness.25

Why avoid scented lotion?

Scented lotion can cause contact dermatitis, an inflamed skin reaction, on a healing tattoo. Such a reaction can delay healing and lead to scarring or premature fading. A lotion you previously tolerated on ordinary skin or an older tattoo can still cause trouble on a fresh tattoo. Stop using a lotion that triggers a new rash and seek medical advice.56

Does my tattoo need sunscreen too?

Avoid direct sunlight while the tattoo heals. Once fully healed, protect exposed tattooed skin with a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher. Apply it 15 minutes before going outside and reapply at least every two hours. UV light can fade tattoo inks. Moisturizing and sun protection do different jobs; the lotion bottle is not the entire maintenance department.25

The Canadian CeraVe AM SPF 50 offers broad spectrum protection. CeraVe directs you to use a water resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating, so do not treat every SPF lotion as interchangeable with a water resistant sunscreen.4

When is lotion not enough?

Some early redness, soreness, itching and flaking are normal. Get medical care for increasing pain, hot skin, significant drainage, odor, spreading redness or red streaks. Seek urgent care for fever or marked redness or swelling. A new reaction on an old tattoo also needs a dermatologist's assessment.257

If you take medicines that suppress your immune system, such as biologics, methotrexate or steroids, discuss tattoo aftercare with your treating team. These treatments can increase infection risk, making careful cleaning and prompt attention to symptoms especially relevant.7