Answer: Even though 53% is a lot, the addition of other ingredients does seem to make products containing petrolatum - such as A&D and Aquaphor - better than pure petroleum jelly.
Petroleum jelly, by itself, can be responsible for clogging pores which can lead to infection - not just color loss. If you look at a jar of Vaseline, it specifically says not to put it on broken skin or a puncture wound. But A&D is made to help heal minor skin wounds and is very effective for most people.
However, there are still going to be those who will have problems using a product that contains any petrolatum. And sometimes that's in how they're using it, not in the product itself. Using too much ointment of any kind can lead to color loss. It's very important to use a very sparing amount.
This is why aftercare is such a controversial subject because there just simply can't be one product that everyone likes and no one has any kind of reaction to. As long as you're keeping your tattoo clean and hydrated, it all comes down to personal preference.
Comments
Aquaphor!
For all my tattoos I used Lubriderm or Curel. The last one I got I used Aquaphor.
I have never had a tattoo heal as nicely as this one did. It was my biggest tattoo too. It was a scar cover up too. I have a picture, wish i could leave it!
I Recommend Aquaphor to all of my clients. It is by far the best ointment I have seen for tattoos. It heals faster and better than anything I have ever used.