Product Related FAQs
The Original and Natural formulas share the same purpose and deliver the same great results — the key difference is in the ingredients. Our Natural Vegan (50g) (20g) formula swaps beeswax for Candelilla Wax, making it fully vegan and safe for those with nut allergies, while still providing the same nourishing care for your tattoo.
Both the Tattoo Balm and Soothe Gel are effective for tattoo healing — it's really down to preference. The Balm offers a richer, classic formula, while the Soothe Gel is a lighter, cooling alternative made with aloe vera and cucumber, ideal for sensitive or irritated skin and well-suited to cosmetic tattooing, fine line work, and PMU.
It depends on your needs — the 20g is a pocket-sized option, great for carrying in your handbag or on the go. The 50g is perfect for medium-sized tattoos and those who prefer the natural formula. The 75g is best for larger pieces, multiple tattoos, or replenishing several older tattoos at once.
Antibacterial foam wash is specifically designed to support the tattoo healing process, especially during the crucial first 48 hours, helping to prevent infection and promote fast, healthy recovery. Packed with enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, it provides deep hydration to sensitive, freshly tattooed skin. Regular bar soap, on the other hand, often isn't antibacterial and is formulated for everyday use rather than supporting skin recovery.
Tattoo film is a hypoallergenic wrap specifically designed to adhere to and protect freshly tattooed skin without compromising its barrier. It plays a crucial role in the first 24+ hours of healing, creating a secure seal that keeps bacteria, moisture, and fluids out. Unlike cling wrap, which doesn't properly adhere and can allow contaminants to seep in, tattoo film offers reliable, hygienic protection during this critical early stage.
The Soothe Gel provides a lightweight, cooling formula with aloe vera and cucumber to calm and support healing. It's suitable for anyone, and especially great for sensitive or irritated skin, cosmetic tattooing, fine line work, and PMU.
Our Dermal Soothe Gel is ideal for cosmetic tattoos and brows. It's specifically formulated with these applications in mind, offering a light, cooling formula that's gentle enough for sensitive areas.
Separation can naturally occur when the balm is exposed to hot climates, due to the natural oils and ingredients in the formula. Simply massage the tube before use to help blend everything back together. To prevent this, store your balm in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
How to Heal FAQs
Keep your Dr Pickles Second Skin on for a minimum of 24 hours. During this time, avoid getting the tattoo wet, and don't pick, scratch, or expose it to sun. After 24 hours, gently remove the Second Skin and begin the wash and heal process. Keep in mind advice provided by your artist.
Yes! Our balms are great for replenishing and maintaining old, fully healed tattoos, helping to keep colours vibrant and skin nourished.
During the first 14 days, apply balm 2-3 times a day, using only a thin layer — you should see a slight shine, not a thick coating. After the first 14 days, apply daily or as needed.
No, do not overload the skin. When the peeling phase hits (typically Days 4 to 14), it is tempting to slather on balm to flatten the flakes. However, thick layers will suffocate the skin and trap moisture, which can cause "gooey" scabs. Stick to a very thin, barely-there layer of Balm 2-3 times a day.
Peeling stopping doesn't mean healing is finished — it's just the surface catching up. Underneath, skin keeps repairing for weeks. Continuing with wash and balm for the full 30 days protects your colour, supports deeper recovery, and gives your tattoo the best long-term result.
The Soothe Gel can be used throughout your entire healing journey as an alternative to balm, or you can start with balm and transition to the gel later on for a lighter feel.
General FAQs
Yes! We're a family-owned business based in Brisbane, and proudly certified Australian-made.
Selected Dr Pickles products are stocked in Woolworths, Coles, and select pharmacies, as well as in over 300 tattoo studios across Australia. Reach out to our page and we'll help direct you to your nearest stockist.
Our Soothe Gel is the best option for this. Its aloe vera base is perfect for calming red, inflamed, and irritated skin caused by sun exposure.
Yes, we ship internationally! While we're proudly Australian-made and based in Brisbane, we're happy to deliver Dr Pickles products worldwide.
Yes! If you're interested in stocking Dr Pickles products, contact lochlan@drpickles.com for more information.
The oil based ingredients can leave a very minor greasy spot on fabrics if pressed hard against them while fresh. However, it shouldn't permanently stain! Treating the spot with a little dish soap (which breaks down oils) or a standard laundry stain remover before putting it through a normal warm wash will usually pull it right out.
No — despite the name, our products don't contain pickles or have a pickle scent!
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions below