Tattoos are a popular form of self-expression and body art, with millions of people getting inked every year. While tattoos are meant to be permanent, their appearance can fade over time, leading to the search for products that will help maintain the vibrancy and longevity of the design. One of these products is coconut oil, a natural and versatile oil that has been touted for its many benefits. But is it truly effective for tattoos and is it safe to use?
Here Is Why Coconut Oil Is Good And Bad:
Coconut oil is a ingredient used by itself or within skincare products. Coconut oil can be good on a tattoo because it is:
Natural (Not full of Chemicals)
Non Irritating on the skin
Antibacterial
The negative is that coconut oil is not a sunscreen and can be oily on some people.
In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of using coconut oil on tattoos, so you can make an informed decision on the best way to care for your ink.
What Is Good About Coconut Oil On Tattoos
Natural
One of the main advantages of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it is a natural ingredient. This is appealing to many people as it means that they are not applying any harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients to their skin. Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for the skin.
Another advantage of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it is easily absorbed by the skin, providing deep hydration without leaving a greasy residue. This can help to maintain the vibrancy of the tattoo and prevent it from fading too quickly. Furthermore, coconut oil has natural antiseptic properties that can help to prevent infections and keep the tattooed area clean and healthy.
Finally, using coconut oil on tattoos is a cost-effective alternative to other products that are specifically marketed for tattoo care. Coconut oil is widely available and can often be found in grocery stores or health food stores at a much lower cost than other specialized products.
Overall, the use of coconut oil on tattoos offers a natural and cost-effective solution for maintaining the appearance and longevity of tattoos.
Non Irritating
Another advantage of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. Many people with tattoos have sensitive skin, especially around the tattooed area, and are therefore cautious about using products that may cause irritation or adverse reactions. Coconut oil is gentle and safe for sensitive skin, making it a good option for tattoo care.
Additionally, coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties that are a excellent ingredient to calm down the tattooed skin area. This is particularly important for people with tattoos, as the skin in the tattooed placement may become irritated or red after the tattooing process. Coconut oil can help to reduce redness and provide relief from itching or burning.
Furthermore, coconut oil is free of fragrances and other potential irritants, making it an excellent option for people who are prone to skin irritation or allergic reactions. In fact, many people with tattoos who have used coconut oil have reported that it has helped to soothe and heal their skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and healthy.
What Is Not So Good For New Tattoos
Not A Sunscreen
One of the disadvantages of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it does not contain sunscreen. Sun exposure can be harmful to tattoos, causing them to fade or become discolored over time. Therefore, it is important to protect your tattoo from the sun’s damaging rays, especially during the first few weeks after getting the tattoo.
While coconut oil has many beneficial properties for tattoo care, it does not contain any SPF (Sun Protection Factor), meaning that it does not provide protection against the sun’s UV rays. Therefore, if you are using coconut oil on your tattoo, it is important to also use a separate sunscreen product that provides adequate protection.
Another disadvantage of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it may not be suitable for all skin types. Some people may experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation when using coconut oil on their tattoos, especially if they have sensitive skin. Therefore, it is important to test the product on a small area of skin before using it on your tattoo to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.
Finally, some people may find that coconut oil is too greasy for their liking, especially if they have oily skin. While coconut oil is easily absorbed by the skin, some people may find that it leaves a greasy residue, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
Oily On The Skin
Another disadvantage of using coconut oil on tattoos is that it can be quite oily on the skin. While coconut oil is easily absorbed by the skin, some people may find that it leaves a greasy residue, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. This can be particularly problematic for people who have oily skin, as the added oil from the coconut oil can exacerbate the issue.
Additionally, some people may find that coconut oil causes their tattooed area to feel sticky or slippery, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to wear clothing over the tattooed area. This can be particularly problematic for people with larger tattoos, as the oil can spread and cause friction with clothing.
Furthermore, if you have a new tattoo, it is important to keep the tattooed area clean and dry to promote healing and prevent infection. However, the oiliness of coconut oil can make it difficult to keep the tattooed area clean and dry, increasing the risk of infection and slowing the healing process.
Overall, while coconut oil has many benefits for tattoo care, its oiliness can be a disadvantage, especially for people with oily skin. It is important to consider this factor when deciding whether or not to use coconut oil on your tattoo, and to use it sparingly and in moderation to avoid any negative effects.