Four Different People, Four Different Conversations
Hey friends! Stacie here.
Want to learn more about Tattoo Luv? Visit our dedicated site at www.tattooluv.com for complete product details, artist resources, and our Sponsored Artist Program.
At Pumpkinfest last year, I had the most interesting day at our booth. Four different people stopped by asking about Tattoo Luv, and each one needed to hear about it in a completely different way.
First person: A heavily tattooed guy in his 30s, sleeves on both arms, asking detailed questions about ingredients
Second person: A nervous 18-year-old girl getting her first tattoo next week, asking “So… what do I do after?”
Third person: A mom in her 40s with a single small tattoo from college, asking “I got this 20 years ago… should I still be taking care of it?”
Fourth person: A tattoo artist browsing our booth, picking up the tin, reading the ingredients, asking “Does this wipe away stencils?”
Four totally different people. Four totally different conversations. Same product.
By the end of the day, I realized: The “forever care” philosophy behind Tattoo Luv means different things to different people. And I need to explain it differently depending on who’s asking.
So today, I want to share those four conversations with you. Because chances are, YOU fit into one of these categories - and understanding what “forever care” means for YOUR situation will help you take better care of your tattoos.
Conversation #1: The Tattoo Enthusiast (The Detail Seeker)
Customer profile: Multiple tattoos, knowledgeable, asks specific questions, reads ingredient lists
What They Ask:
“What’s in this? Is it petroleum-based? Will it fade my ink? How does it compare to [whatever brand they currently use]?”
How I Explain Forever Care to Them:
“So, you know how most tattoo aftercare is focused on those first 2-3 weeks of healing?”
“Yeah, that’s when everyone freaks out about infection and scabbing.”
“Right. But your tattoos need care AFTER they heal, too. Forever care means treating your tattoos as a lifetime investment, not just a healing phase.”
“How so?”
“Think about it: Your tattoo ink sits in the second layer of your skin (the dermis). Over time:
- Sun exposure degrades the ink and fades colors
- Dry skin makes tattoos look dull and less vibrant
- Aging skin loses elasticity, which can blur fine lines
- Friction from clothing or daily activities can wear on tattoos
If you only care for your tattoos during healing, you’re missing 99% of their lifespan.”
“Okay, that makes sense. So how does Tattoo Luv help?”
“Tattoo Luv is a natural, butter-based balm that:
- Moisturizes deeply without petroleum (which can actually PREVENT skin from breathing)
- Protects ink with nourishing oils that keep skin healthy and vibrant
- Works during tattooing AND after - it’s dual-purpose
- Doesn’t clog pores like petroleum-based products can
You can use it during fresh tattoo healing (those first 2-3 weeks), but you SHOULD use it long-term - anytime your tattoos need moisture, protection, or a color refresh.”
“What’s in it?”
“Shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and jojoba oil. That’s it. No petroleum, no synthetic fragrances, no weird chemicals.
All-natural ingredients that your skin actually ABSORBS instead of just sitting on the surface.”
Customer smells it, reads the ingredient list, nods approvingly
“I’ll take two.”
That’s the conversation with tattoo enthusiasts. They want DETAILS. They want to understand the science. They appreciate the natural ingredient list and the long-term care philosophy.
Conversation #2: The First-Timer (The Nervous One)
Customer profile: Getting their first tattoo soon (or just got one), anxious, wants clear instructions
What They Ask:
“I’m getting my first tattoo next week and I have NO IDEA what to do after. My artist said to buy aftercare but there are so many options… what do I need?”
How I Explain Forever Care to Them:
“Okay, deep breath - it’s not as complicated as it seems! Let me walk you through it.”
“Thank you! I’m so nervous!”
“First: your tattoo is basically an open wound for the first 2-3 weeks. Your body needs to heal the skin that was just tattooed. During that time:
Days 1-3 (The Critical Phase):
- Keep it clean (gentle, fragrance-free soap and water)
- Pat dry (don’t rub!)
- Apply a THIN layer of Tattoo Luv (you don’t need much!)
- Repeat 2-3 times a day
- Don’t pick at scabs (I know it’s tempting - don’t do it!)
Days 4-14 (The Healing Phase):
- Keep moisturizing with Tattoo Luv
- It might itch (that’s normal - don’t scratch!)
- It might peel (like a sunburn - that’s normal too!)
- Keep it out of direct sunlight
- No swimming or soaking (showers are fine, baths/pools are not)
After Week 2-3 (The Forever Care Phase):
- Your tattoo is healed, but it’s not DONE needing care
- Keep moisturizing occasionally (once a day or every few days)
- Use sunscreen when it’s exposed (sun is ink’s enemy!)
- Moisturize before it looks dry (prevention is easier than fixing dryness)
That’s where the ‘forever’ part comes in. Your tattoo will look better, stay more vibrant, and age more gracefully if you keep caring for it - not just during healing, but ALWAYS.”
“So I should keep using Tattoo Luv even after it’s healed?”
“YES! That’s exactly right. Most people stop caring for their tattoos after they heal, and then wonder why they fade or look dull after a few years.
If you moisturize regularly with something natural like Tattoo Luv, your tattoos will stay vibrant and beautiful for decades.”
“Okay, that makes sense. So one tin will last me a while?”
“Oh yeah. You use such a thin layer that one tin lasts months, even with daily use.”
“Perfect! I’ll take one. And… can I come back with questions after I get tattooed?”
“Absolutely! Message us on Facebook or stop by our Carlisle Creative Vibes booth. We’re here to help.”
That’s the conversation with first-timers. They need REASSURANCE. Clear steps. Permission to ask questions. And the confidence that they can do this.
Conversation #3: The “I Got This Years Ago” Person (The Rediscoverer)
Customer profile: Has one or a few older tattoos, never thought about aftercare post-healing, surprised to learn tattoos need ongoing care
What They Ask:
“I got this tattoo 15 years ago. Do I… still need to do something with it? I thought once it healed, that was it?”
How I Explain Forever Care to Them:
“Great question! And you’re not alone - most people think tattoos are ‘done’ once they heal.”
“Yeah, I mean, it healed fine, but it’s definitely faded over the years. I figured that was just normal?”
“It IS normal… if you’re not caring for it! But it doesn’t HAVE to fade that much.
Think of your tattoo like a really important photograph. If you:
- Leave it in direct sunlight → it fades
- Keep it in a dry environment → the paper gets brittle
- Never protect it → it deteriorates
But if you:
- Keep it out of harsh light → colors stay vibrant
- Maintain proper humidity → paper stays flexible
- Store it carefully → it lasts for generations
Your tattoo is the same! The ink is literally IN your skin. How you treat your skin affects how the ink looks.”
“Huh. I never thought of it that way.”
“Most people don’t! But here’s the thing: it’s not too late.
Even if your tattoo is 10, 15, 20 years old, you can still:
- Improve its vibrancy by keeping your skin moisturized
- Slow down further fading by using sunscreen when it’s exposed
- Make the colors look richer by nourishing the skin around the ink
That’s what ‘forever care’ means - caring for your tattoos throughout their lifetime, not just during the initial healing.”
“So if I start using Tattoo Luv now, even though I got this years ago, it’ll help?”
“Absolutely! Your skin will be healthier, which makes the tattoo look better. You won’t undo 15 years of fading overnight, but you’ll notice:
- The colors look richer when your skin is moisturized
- The lines look sharper when your skin is healthy
- Future fading slows WAY down
Think of it like this: if you’ve never moisturized your face and you start at age 40, you won’t suddenly look 20 again. But your skin WILL look better, healthier, and age more slowly from that point forward.
Same with tattoos.”
“That makes total sense. I wish someone had told me this when I first got it!”
“Well, now you know! And it’s never too late to start taking better care of them.”
Customer buys a tin of Tattoo Luv and leaves saying they’re going to start moisturizing their old tattoo
That’s the conversation with people who have older tattoos. They need PERMISSION to start caring now. Reassurance that it’s not too late. And understanding that tattoos are a lifetime commitment.
Conversation #4: The Tattoo Artist (The Professional)
Customer profile: Tattoo artist looking for professional-grade glide and aftercare to use in their studio
What They Ask:
“Does this wipe away stencils? What’s the consistency? Is it too greasy? Can I use it during tattooing or just after?”
How I Explain Forever Care to Them:
“So, Tattoo Luv is dual-purpose - you can use it during tattooing as a glide AND as aftercare. That’s actually how we developed it.”
“Really? Tell me more.”
“We worked directly with a tattoo artist - Mike Mavretic, he’s our first sponsored artist - to create this.
Mike’s biggest frustrations with other glides:
- Petroleum-based products wiped away stencils
- Some glides were too greasy and clogged tubes
- Clients needed DIFFERENT aftercare than what he used during sessions (confusing and inconsistent)
So we developed Tattoo Luv to solve all three problems:
1. Stencil-Safe Glide The butter-based formula provides excellent glide without being so slippery that it wipes stencils. Mike said it was a game-changer for his workflow.
2. Won’t Clog Tubes It’s smooth but not overly greasy. Doesn’t gunk up your equipment.
3. Dual-Purpose Consistency You use it during the session, then send the client home with the SAME product for aftercare. They’re using what YOU used - consistency throughout the healing process.
Plus, it’s all-natural ingredients, so your hands are touching better stuff all day long.”
“What about redness and swelling during sessions?”
“Mike reports noticeably less redness and irritation when using Tattoo Luv during sessions. The gentle, moisturizing properties of shea butter and cocoa butter keep skin comfortable.”
“Ingredients?”
“Shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, jojoba oil. That’s it. No petroleum, no synthetics.”
“Huh. And clients can use this long-term, not just during healing?”
“Exactly! That’s the ‘forever care’ concept. You’re not just sending clients home with ‘healing ointment’ - you’re giving them a product they can use for LIFE to keep their ink looking fresh.
Which means:
- Their tattoos age better (reflects well on your work!)
- They come back for more ink (because the first one still looks great!)
- They recommend you to friends (because their tattoos stayed vibrant)
It’s good for the client AND good for your portfolio.”
“I like that. Can I get a sample to test in my studio?”
“Absolutely! Here’s our Tattoo Luv site: www.tattooluv.com. We have a Sponsored Artist Program too - you get discounts and we feature you on our site.”
Artist takes a business card, buys a tin to test
That’s the conversation with tattoo artists. They need PROFESSIONAL details. Proof it works in real studio conditions. And understanding of how it benefits their business, not just their clients.
The “Forever Care” Philosophy (What It Really Means)
After having these four conversations - and hundreds more like them over the past few years - I’ve realized “forever care” means something deeper than just “use our product forever.”
Forever care is a MINDSET:
1. Your Tattoos Are an Investment
You paid money (sometimes a LOT of money) for your ink. You sat through pain. You chose meaningful designs. Why would you let them fade and deteriorate if you could prevent it?
2. Healing Is Just the Beginning
The first 2-3 weeks are critical, yes. But the next 2-3 DECADES matter just as much. How your tattoos look when you’re 50, 60, 70 depends on how you care for them NOW.
3. Prevention Is Easier Than Fixing
It’s easier to PREVENT fading than to get a touch-up later. It’s easier to moisturize regularly than to try to revive dried-out, dull ink. Taking care of tattoos proactively saves you time, money, and heartache down the road.
4. Your Skin Changes - Your Care Should Too
As you age, your skin gets drier, thinner, less elastic. Tattoos on aging skin need MORE care, not less. Forever care means adapting your routine as your skin changes.
5. Great Tattoos Deserve Great Care
If an artist spent hours creating beautiful ink on your body, you owe it to them (and yourself!) to take care of it. Their art deserves to be preserved.
Why We Created Tattoo Luv (The Origin Story)
A lot of people ask: “You make soap and skincare… why tattoo aftercare?”
Fair question!
The answer: Mike asked us to.
Mike Mavretic - tattoo artist at Skin Deep Tattoo LLC in Lebanon, PA - came to us with a problem:
“All the glides I’m using are petroleum-based. They wipe away my stencils, they’re not great for my hands, and the clients need something DIFFERENT for aftercare. It’s confusing. Can you make something better?”
Maddi and I LOVE a good problem to solve.
So we researched. We tested formulas. We worked directly with Mike to understand what he needed:
- Smooth glide without stencil-wiping
- Non-greasy (won’t clog tubes or make clients feel oily)
- Natural ingredients (better for artists’ hands and clients’ skin)
- Dual-purpose (same product for session and aftercare)
- Long-term benefits (clients can keep using it forever)
After 8-10 test batches and Mike’s feedback, we landed on the final Tattoo Luv formula.
Shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, jojoba oil. That’s it.
Mike tested it in his studio. His clients loved it. The tattoos looked beautiful. He became our first Sponsored Artist.
And now, Tattoo Luv is one of our proudest products - not because it’s the most profitable (it’s not!), but because we solved a real problem for real artists and their clients.
The Difference Between “Healing Ointment” and “Forever Care”
Here’s something most people don’t understand:
Most tattoo aftercare products are designed ONLY for the healing phase (2-3 weeks).
They’re thick, protective, meant to create a barrier while your skin repairs itself. They’re NOT meant for long-term use.
Tattoo Luv is different. It’s designed for:
Phase 1: During Tattooing (Glide)
- Smooth glide without excess grease
- Doesn’t wipe stencils
- Reduces redness and irritation
Phase 2: Aftercare (Days 1-21)
- Protects the skin
- Keeps skin moisturized
- Gentle moisture without smothering the skin
Phase 3: Forever (Day 22 onward)
- Keeps skin nourished
- Maintains ink vibrancy
- Prevents premature fading
- Works as daily tattoo maintenance
One product. Three phases. Forever care.
You don’t need different products for different stages. You don’t need to switch from “healing ointment” to “daily lotion.” Tattoo Luv works for the entire lifespan of your tattoos.
Common Questions About Forever Care
“How often should I use Tattoo Luv on healed tattoos?”
During healing (first 2-3 weeks): 2-3 times a day
After healing: Whenever your tattoos need moisture:
- Daily if your skin is very dry
- Every few days if your skin is normal
- Before sun exposure (moisturize, then sunscreen!)
- After swimming or dry environments
There’s no “wrong” amount. Your skin will tell you when it needs moisture - listen to it.
“Will Tattoo Luv make old tattoos look brand new?”
No - and anyone who promises that is lying to you.
What Tattoo Luv WILL do:
- Make colors look richer by hydrating the skin
- Keep tattoos from fading FURTHER
- Improve overall skin health around the ink
- Make tattoos age more gracefully going forward
Think of it like moisturizer for your face. It won’t erase wrinkles that are already there, but it makes your skin look healthier and prevents NEW damage.
“Can I use Tattoo Luv on non-tattooed skin?”
Absolutely! It’s just a natural butter balm. Use it on:
- Dry hands
- Rough elbows
- Cracked heels
- Any dry skin patches
It’s not “magic tattoo formula” - it’s excellent, all-natural moisturizer that HAPPENS to be perfect for tattoos.
“Is Tattoo Luv vegan?”
No. It contains beeswax and sometimes goat’s milk (in certain formulations).
We’re transparent about ingredients - if you need vegan options, there are great alternatives out there! We don’t try to be everything to everyone; we try to be EXCELLENT at what we do.
Why Natural Ingredients Matter for Tattoos
Petroleum-based products (like Aquaphor or Vaseline) are popular for tattoo aftercare. They’re cheap, accessible, and they work… sort of.
The problem with petroleum:
- It sits ON TOP of your skin instead of absorbing
- It can trap bacteria (not great for healing wounds!)
- It doesn’t nourish skin - it just creates a barrier
- Long-term use can actually prevent skin from producing natural oils
Natural butter-based products (like Tattoo Luv):
- ABSORB into your skin
- Nourish with vitamins and fatty acids
- Don’t trap bacteria
- Support long-term skin health
For healing fresh tattoos, petroleum works - it creates a protective barrier.
But for FOREVER CARE? Natural is better. You want ingredients that actually nourish and support skin health, not just coat the surface.
Our Sponsored Artist Program (For Professionals)
If you’re a tattoo artist reading this, we’d love to work with you!
Our Sponsored Artist Program offers:
- Discounted Tattoo Luv for your studio (so you can use it in sessions and sell to clients)
- Featured artist spotlight on our website and social media
- Collaborative product development (your feedback shapes future formulas!)
- Marketing support (we promote you as you promote us - win-win!)
Three tiers:
- Partner Artist (10% discount)
- Pro Team Member (15% discount + FREE SHIPPING)
- Signature Artist (20% discount + stipend)
Learn more: Tattoo Luv Sponsored Artist Program
Forever Care Is About Respect
At the end of the day, “forever care” is about RESPECT.
Respect for the artist who created beautiful work on your body.
Respect for yourself and the investment you made in meaningful ink.
Respect for the art form of tattooing and the permanence it represents.
Respect for your body and the skin that holds those tattoos.
Your tattoos are permanent. They’ll be with you for LIFE. Doesn’t it make sense to care for them for life, too?
Come Talk Tattoos With Us!
Whether you’re a first-timer getting inked next week, a collector with sleeves and leg pieces, or a professional artist looking for better products - we’d love to talk with you about tattoo care.
Find Us:
- Carlisle Creative Vibes: 152 N Hanover St, Carlisle, PA 17013 (www.carlislecreativevibes.com)
- East Pennsboro Pumpkinfest (every fall!)
- Follow us on Facebook: @mommabearsus
Tattoo Luv Specific:
- Shop Tattoo Luv: www.tattooluv.com
- Sponsored Artist Program: tattooluv.com/for-artists
Questions? Contact us - we love talking about tattoo care!
Your tattoos deserve forever care. Let’s make sure they look vibrant for decades to come.
— Stacie, Maddi & Scott (Momma Bears Creations, Enola, PA)
P.S. - If you’re a tattoo artist who’s tried Tattoo Luv (or wants to!), we’d love to hear your experience. Send us a message or tag us on social media. We’re always learning from professionals in the field, and your feedback helps us make better products.
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