Olive oil is derived from olives and is very commonly found in Mediterranean dishes (1). Olive oil is one of the most commonly used oils for skincare as well as hair care. It has immense benefits that can be enjoyed by your skin and hair.
Olive oil contains properties that help in healing many different skin conditions. Olive oil can be used for the aftercare of your tattoo as well.
Tattoos are a popular form of self-expression, but they require proper care to maintain their vibrant appearance. One commonly recommended method for tattoo care is the use of olive oil. Olive oil contains properties that help in keeping the tattoos moisturized. It has many properties that ensure that tattoos are not irritated or there are no bacterial infections or pain.
In this post, the use of olive oil for tattoos aftercare has been discussed. The benefits of olive oil with respect to tattoos are also covered in this post. Continue reading to learn about olive oil on new tattoos or old tattoos.
What Are The Benefits Of Olive Oil For Tattoos?
Moisturizes Skin
One of the main benefits of using olive oil on tattoos is its ability to moisturize the skin. Tattoos are like open wounds, and they can lead to dry skin and can become itchy, particularly during the healing process. Olive oil can help to keep the skin moisturized, which can reduce itching and prevent skin dryness (2). Olive oil can penetrate layers of the epidermis if you have extremely dry skin then you can use petroleum on the tattoo area.
How To Use Olive Oil For Tattoos Aftercare?
Following are some of the ways in which olive oil can be applied to your tattoos.
- One of the simplest and best ways is by applying olive oil directly to the tattoo. You can do this with the help of your fingers or with the help of a cotton swab. Then gently massage the tattoo area with the help of your hands.
- Another method is to make a blend by adding olive oil and other oils like essential oils. You can use natural oils or essential oils like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, etc. To make the blend, you need to mix 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 drop of any essential oil of your choice. You can apply this blend twice or thrice a day for effective results.
- You can also use olive oil by mixing it with other carrier oils like coconut oil, grapeseed oil, etc., as it will be beneficial for your skin.
- You can also add olive oil to your lotion, creams, or tattoo ointments and apply it to your tattoo.
DIY Olive Oil Moisturizer Recipes For Tattoos
Recipe #1
DIY Olive Oil Tattoo Moisturizer Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed olive oil
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and coconut oil.
- If desired, add 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil for its soothing properties.
- Mix the ingredients well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- To use, simply apply a small amount of moisturizer to your tattooed area and massage it into the skin. Repeat as needed to keep your tattoo moisturized.
- Store in a cool and dry place.
DIY Recipe #2
Olive Oil and Beeswax Tattoo Moisturizer:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of beeswax
- 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and beeswax over low heat and constantly stir until the beeswax is fully melted.
- If desired, add 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- To use, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your tattooed area and massage it into the skin. Repeat as needed to keep your tattoo moisturized.
- Store in a cool, dry place and use within 6 months for best results.
DIY Recipe #3
Olive Oil and Aloe Vera Tattoo Moisturizer:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed olive oil
- 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
- 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and aloe vera gel.
- If desired, add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil for its cooling and soothing properties.
- Mix the ingredients well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- To use, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your tattooed area and massage it into the skin. Repeat as needed to keep your tattoo moisturized.
- Store in a refrigerator and use within 6 months for best results.
DIY Recipe #4
Olive Oil and Vitamin E Tattoo Moisturizer:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of Vitamin E oil
- 2-3 drops of chamomile essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and Vitamin E oil.
- If desired, add 2-3 drops of chamomile essential oil for its calming and soothing properties.
- Mix the ingredients well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- To use, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your tattooed area and massage it into the skin. Repeat as needed to keep your tattoo moisturized.
- Store in a cool, dry place and use within 6 months for best results.
*Note: This recipe is for after the initial healing period of the tattoo, usually 2-4 weeks. It's always best to consult with your tattoo artist or a doctor if you have any doubts about using this recipe or any other skincare products on your tattoo.
Precautionary Measures
Take into consideration the following precautionary measures if you are putting olive oil on a new tattoo or even on an old tattoo.
- Olive oil is safe to use on tattoos, but there are always possibilities for any sort of allergic reaction. So, always be vigilant when you are using olive oil on your tattoos for the first time to check for any signs of allergic reactions. If you see any symptoms like itchiness, redness, inflammation, swelling, etc., you need to immediately consult a doctor.
- Avoid using too much oil on the tattoos, as it can make your skin too greasy. Also, too much oil tends to attract and absorb dirt and bacteria, which can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. Using too much oil can also clog pores.
- Always undertake a patch test if you are using any oil for the first time to check if you are allergic or not to that particular oil.
- Always try to use pure olive oil or extra virgin olive oil to avoid any allergic infections.
- Always keep your tattoo clean and dry before applying olive oil.
Summary
Olive oil is best for your tattoos, and it is also recommended by many tattoo artists for the aftercare of your tattoos. Olive oil is a completely natural solution that can be used as a part of your tattoo aftercare routine. Olive oil is all-natural and works well to boost collagen and improve skin texture.
