Mad Rabbit Vs Hustle Butter: Which One Is Better?

As a tattoo enthusiast with over a dozen pieces, I’ve used both Mad Rabbit and Hustle Butter extensively for healing new ink and maintaining older tattoos. Mad Rabbit excels at color enhancement and clean ingredients, while Hustle Butter remains a studio favorite for its glide and soothing properties. In this late 2025 comparison, I share my real-world experiences to help you choose based on healing needs, scent preferences, or budget.

Comparison Table

FeatureMad RabbitHustle Butter
Primary UseEnhancing/reviving old tattoos, healing newBefore/during/after tattooing glide & healing
FormBalm, soothing gel, lotionRich butter balm
Key IngredientsShea butter, cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, calendulaShea/mango/aloe butters, coconut/sunflower oils, vitamin E
Vegan/Cruelty-FreeYesYes
Petroleum-FreeYesYes
ScentSubtle (frankincense/lavender or vanilla/coconut)Tropical (papaya/coconut/mint)
Absorption/FeelNon-greasy, quick absorb (gel especially)Rich/thick, buttery, longer lasting
Best ForColor boost on old tattoos, itch reliefStudio glide, reducing redness/swelling
Price (approx. 4-5oz tub)$22-30$20-35 (often cheaper in shops)
Artist RecommendationGrowing popular#1 long-time favorite

My Experience With Mad Rabbit

I tried Mad Rabbit after seeing ads everywhere, starting with the Soothing Gel on a fresh piece. The cooling effect calmed itchiness fast, and it absorbed without greasiness—perfect for daytime. Switching to the Balm on healed tattoos made colors pop noticeably after one application.

The clean, natural feel suits my sensitive skin—no breakouts. The sunscreen variant protects outdoor ink well.The balm feels waxy at first for some. It’s pricier per ounce than basics. Marketing feels heavy sometimes.

My Experience With Hustle Butter

mad rabbit vs hustle butter

Hustle Butter was my artist’s recommendation years ago—the Deluxe tub.

The tropical scent motivates application, and the thick texture creates a protective layer that reduces redness overnight.

It works great during sessions too for smoother gliding.

A little lasts long, and it revives dull older tattoos subtly. Vegan formula aligns with preferences.It feels heavier/greasier initially. Mango ingredient causes rare allergies. Tub size overwhelms small needs.

Pros Of Mad Rabbit

  • Color Enhancement Power: Revives faded ink quickly with natural butters and oils. Tattoos look sharper and more vibrant after days. Depth returns impressively.
  • Clean, Natural Ingredients: Vegan, organic-leaning, no petroleum or harsh additives. Sensitive skin thrives without irritation. Safety feels premium.
  • Variety of Products: Soothing gel for fresh itch, balm for daily enhance, lotion for all-over. Routine builds easily. Options cover stages fully.
  • Quick Absorption: Gel and lotion sink in fast without residue. Daytime use stays comfortable. Greasiness avoids completely.
  • Great for Itch Relief: Cooling formula calms healing phase effectively. Scratching reduces dramatically. Comfort rises noticeably.
  • Enhances Skin Health: Antioxidants and moisturizers improve texture overall. Tattoos benefit long-term. Barrier strengthens reliably.
  • Subtle Scents: Pleasant but not overpowering options. Daily application enjoys quietly. Overload prevents.
  • Positive on Sensitive Skin: Rarely causes breakouts or reactions. Trust builds steadily. Suitability widens.
  • Shark Tank Backing: Brand growth brings innovation and quality. Reliability reassures consistently.
  • Daily Use Friendly: Works on non-tattooed skin too. Versatility expands naturally.

These make Mad Rabbit standout for long-term vibrancy and gentle care.

Pros Of Hustle Butter

  • Artist Favorite Glide: Used before/during/after for smooth tattooing and healing. Sessions improve noticeably. Pros swear by it.
  • Rich Moisturization: Thick butter locks in hydration, reducing swelling/redness fast. Protection lasts extended. Comfort soothes deeply.
  • Tropical Scent: Pleasant papaya/coconut aroma motivates use. Application delights daily. Appeal draws consistently.
  • Vegan & Natural: Blend of butters and oils nourishes without petroleum. Ethics align well. Purity delivers reliably.
  • Reduces Irritation: Calms fresh ink effectively during healing. Inflammation drops quickly. Recovery speeds.
  • Long-Lasting Tub: Small amount covers well, value stretches. Economy satisfies over time. Usage minimizes.
  • Revives Older Tattoos: Softens and brightens with regular application. Shine returns subtly. Maintenance enhances.
  • Studio Staple: Proven over years in professional settings. Trust earns deeply. Consistency proves.
  • No Greasy Residue Long-Term: Melts into skin nicely once rubbed. Feel buttery satisfies. Absorption completes.
  • Versatile Daily Moisturizer: Works beyond tattoos on dry skin. Broad use integrates seamlessly.

These strengths make Hustle Butter essential for intensive healing and pro use.

Cons Of Mad Rabbit

mad rabbit vs hustle butter
  • Higher Price Point — Premium branding raises cost versus basics. Budgets notice difference. Value questions sometimes.
  • Waxy Initial Feel — Balm texture gritty or thick for some initially. Adjustment requires briefly. Preference varies.
  • Heavy Marketing — Ads everywhere feel pushy occasionally. Discovery overwhelms subtly. Hype tempers.
  • Less Thick Protection — Lighter formulas suit daily but less barrier for severe dryness. Intensity trails heavier.
  • Limited Scent Variety — Options nice but fewer bold choices. Aroma seekers look elsewhere.
  • Not as Studio-Centric — Growing but less ubiquitous in shops. Availability varies regionally.
  • Potential Overhype — Results great but not miraculous for all. Expectations manage carefully.
  • Tub Size Options — Larger commitments common. Trials cost more upfront.
  • Residue on Clothes Rarely — If overapplied lightly. Caution applies minimally.
  • Newer Brand Perception — Less long-term history than veterans. Legacy trails slightly.

These affect those seeking maximum thickness or lowest cost.

Cons Of Hustle Butter

  • Thicker/Greasier Feel → Rich texture heavy initially for some. Absorption takes longer. Lightness lacks.
  • Strong Scent → Tropical aroma lovely but overpowering close-up. Preference divides clearly.
  • Potential Allergies → Mango or essentials irritate rarely. Reactions monitor initially.
  • Less Color Pop Focus → Good maintenance but Mad Rabbit edges enhancement. Vibrancy boosts subtler.
  • Tub Melts in Heat → Softens easily in warm conditions. Storage careful needed.
  • Overuse Risk → Thick formula clogs if too much. Moderation learns quickly.
  • Less Product Variety → Mainly balm, fewer gels/lotions. Options restrict stages.
  • Price Variability → Shop markups raise sometimes. Consistency shops online.
  • Filmy Residue Possible → If not rubbed fully. Feel lingers rarely.
  • Not as “Clean” Marketed → Natural but less organic emphasis. Perception shifts.

These challenge light-feel or scent-sensitive users.

Maintenance Tips For Mad Rabbit

  • Apply Thin Layers — Use pea-size for balm/gel to avoid waxiness and absorb faster. Coverage maximizes efficiently. Results shine quickly.
  • Layer Gel Then Balm — Soothing gel first for fresh itch, balm over for enhance. Synergy boosts relief. Healing accelerates.
  • Daily on Old Tattoos — Rub balm mornings for vibrancy boost. Consistency maintains color. Shine sustains long-term.
  • Store Cool — Prevent melting in heat for texture integrity. Quality preserves fully. Application smooths.
  • Patch Test First — Especially sensitive skin on small area. Reactions catch early. Safety ensures.
  • Combine with Sunscreen — Use Mad Rabbit SPF over balm outdoors. Protection doubles effectively. Fading prevents.
  • Clean Hands Always — Scoop with spatula for hygiene in tub. Contamination avoids completely. Freshness holds.
  • Massage Gently — Rub in circles for better absorption. Circulation aids nourishment. Skin responds positively.
  • Track Progress Photos — Before/after for color changes motivation. Improvements visualize clearly. Commitment grows.
  • Use on Dry Patches — Beyond tattoos for overall moisture. Versatility expands value.

These maximize enhancement and gentle healing.

Maintenance Tips For Hustle Butter

mad rabbit vs hustle butter
  • Warm in Hands First — Rub between palms to melt for easier spread. Application evens smoothly. Greasiness minimizes.
  • Thin Application Key — Little goes far to avoid heavy feel. Layers build lightly. Comfort balances perfectly.
  • During Sessions Too — Artists use as glide for better ink flow. Process enhances overall. Results improve.
  • Store Away from Heat — Prevents excessive softening. Consistency maintains reliably. Scoop eases.
  • Nighttime Thick Layer — Apply generously before bed for overnight soothe. Recovery deepens effectively. Morning refreshes.
  • Clean Applicator — Use clean fingers or tool for tub hygiene. Purity preserves long. Usage sanitary.
  • Combine with Wash — Gentle cleanse before to prep skin. Absorption optimizes fully. Effectiveness rises.
  • Daily on Elbows/Knees — Extra dry areas benefit richly. Moisturization extends broadly. Skin thanks.
  • Scent Enjoy Gradually — Builds positively over use. Appeal grows familiarly. Routine delights.
  • Monitor for Sensitivity — Rare reactions pause if needed. Caution guides safely.

These ensure rich protection and enjoyable use.

Comparison With Other Brands

  • Versus Aquaphor — Both natural alternatives better; Hustle artist glide wins, Mad Rabbit enhancement. Petroleum avoids fully.
  • Versus Tattoo Goo — Similar balms; Hustle scent superior, Mad Rabbit cleaner feel. Choices split preferences.
  • Versus After Inked — Lotion focus; Mad Rabbit balm richer, Hustle thicker. Formats vary usability.
  • Versus Viking Revolution — Budget option; premiums like these heal faster. Investment rewards quality.
  • Versus Saniderm — Bandage vs topical; combine often. Healing methods complement.
  • Versus Badger Balm — Organic similar; tattoo-specific edges these. Focus sharpens results.
  • Versus Redemption — Beeswax heavy; Hustle vegan lighter. Texture preferences decide.
  • Versus Billy Jealousy — Marked Man similar enhancement; Mad Rabbit popular now.
  • Versus Ink-Eeze — Glide competitors; Hustle established lead.
  • Versus Generic Lotion — Unscented works but lacks specialize; these boost color.

Specialized like Mad Rabbit/Hustle outperform basics for vibrancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Mad Rabbit or Hustle Butter better for new tattoos?

Hustle Butter edges for during/early healing with thickness; Mad Rabbit gel excellent for itch/soothing.

Do they really enhance old tattoos? Both

yes—Mad Rabbit often noted more for quick pop, Hustle Butter subtle revive.

What are the downsides of Hustle Butter?

Thicker feel, strong scent, potential mango allergy—great for most but not all.

Conclusion

Neither Mad Rabbit nor Hustle Butter is outright better—it depends on your tattoo stage and preferences. If color revival on older ink, quick-absorbing relief, and clean daily enhancement appeal, choose Mad Rabbit—you get vibrant, healthy-looking tattoos with gentle, natural care that shines long-term. For rich moisturization, studio-proven glide, and soothing thickness during healing, pick Hustle Butter—you enjoy luxurious protection and that addictive scent keeping skin buttery soft. I’ve used both rotationally with great results, and proper consistent application with either preserves your art beautifully for years.

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