8 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products Recommended by Experts

If you just got a tattoo, one of the first things any reputable artist will tell you is how crucial aftercare is. "A tattoo takes approximately four to six weeks to completely heal, and one of the biggest mistakes you can make after getting a tattoo is to let it dry up," says Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. After getting new ink, the ultimate goal is to avoid scab formation, which will also help prevent lightened spots or scars from developing on the design. To stop the scabbing, you should always use a protective ointment, salve, or tattoo-friendly moisturizer (i.e. one that will protect it and keep it hydrated) following your appointment up until your ink heals completely. Chances are, you already have a salve hanging around in your medicine cabinet, but just in case, we took the liberty of compiling some of the best tattoo-healing balms and elixirs on the market. Ahead, find eight picks that will leave your new tattoo in tip-top shape.