<b>Hello, I realise this is an elementary question for most and apols if it’s been done to death.</b>

Got tattoo number 2 on Friday, an old school heart + name piece on my outer thigh, about 8 inches by 6.

I bought a ‘tattoo goo’ aftercare kit, so I’ve been religiously washing 3-4 times per day (with supplied soap) and applying the aftercare products. I’ve been using the salve morning and night and the lotion after my lunchtime wash. The manufacturer has slightly different guidelines depending where you read it, suggesting salve for 3-5 days then the lotion, although saying that the lotion can be used from the start. Online lots of people swear by the salve.

So I’m at day 4, the tattoo looks and feels very dry and aches quite a lot. The lotion feels much better, like it’s really getting into the skin whereas the salve feels like it’s just sitting on top.

 

So my question is really salve Vs lotion, which should I be using at this stage?

Or is it ok to use both?

Should I be moisturising additionally in between washes as well?

Thanks for reading!

M