The Truth About Antibacterial Soap and New Tattoos

For years, the go-to advice for a new tattoo was simple: grab a harsh, antibacterial soap from the drugstore. It was a well-intentioned recommendation from a time when there weren't better options. But just as tattoo art has evolved, so has the science of aftercare. That old advice is now officially outdated.

Why the "Old Standard" Can Harm Your Ink

Antibacterial soaps are designed to do one thing: kill all bacteria. They're made for clinical settings, not for the delicate process of caring for new art. These soaps use harsh chemical agents that strip your skin of everything—the bad bacteria, but also the good bacteria that make up your skin's natural microbiome, which is essential for a smooth recovery.

This aggressive approach often leads to excessive dryness, tightness, and irritation. The fragrances and detergents can sting fresh ink, and the stripping of natural oils can leave your tattoo looking dull and ashy. It’s simply overkill for skin that needs balance, not sterilization. For a truly gentle start, your tattoo needs a product like our Day 1 Bar (Calms + Cleanses).

[Expert Quote] "We constantly heard from artists that clients were coming back with irritated, overly dry tattoos from using harsh soaps. We knew we had to create a new standard that worked with the skin's natural process, not against it. That’s the entire philosophy behind Banger."

The Banger Way: Cleansing, Not Sterilizing

A new tattoo is controlled trauma that needs support, not a dirty wound that needs to be disinfected. Our Banger Bars are specifically formulated to cleanse gently and effectively. They remove what needs to be removed—plasma, excess ink, and surface impurities—while leaving your skin’s protective barrier intact.

By using natural, cold-processed ingredients, our bars support your skin's balance, keeping it hydrated and comfortable. This approach helps minimize the feeling of itchiness and irritation, allowing your art to look as vibrant and crisp as your artist intended. You can learn more about our commitment to quality ingredients on our Our Story page.

FAQ 

Q: Can I use Dial or Dove soap on my new tattoo? A: We strongly advise against it. These are generic soaps, and many of their formulas (especially the antibacterial ones) contain harsh detergents and fragrances that can be too aggressive for a fresh tattoo, leading to excessive dryness and irritation.

Q: So what should I look for in a good tattoo soap? A: The best soap for a new tattoo is one that is 100% fragrance-free, free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, and made with natural, nourishing ingredients that cleanse gently without stripping your skin.

Q: Will Banger Soap prevent my tattoo from getting infected? A: Banger Soap is a cosmetic product designed to keep your tattoo clean by washing away surface impurities, which is a critical part of any aftercare routine. It is not a medical product intended to treat or prevent infections. If you have any concerns about a possible infection, you should contact a healthcare professional immediately.

Related Reading

1. Bar Soap vs. Liquid Soap for Tattoos: Which Is Actually Better

Ready to use the new standard in aftercare? Shop The Collector's Series now.