Your tattoo is a work of art that you wear on your body, and like any piece of art, it needs to be protected from certain elements. The sun emits UV rays that can damage the ink in your tattoo, causing it to fade or distort over time.
New tattoos are open wounds that can become swollen, blister, burn, sting, ache, and peel as a result of UV exposure. Tattoos may also fade when exposed to sunshine. This is why you should apply sunscreen to keep them from fading.
Nevertheless, instead of purchasing a low-cost sunscreen from your local store, invest in a high-grade product to prevent skin cancer and various skin issues.
It’s summertime, which means it’s time to hit the beach and enjoy the sun and surf. But before you do, make sure you protect that new tattoo! You might be wondering if it’s safe to put sunscreen on a new tattoo. The answer is yes – but there are a few things you need to know first. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to protect your new ink from the sun.
Why Is Sunscreen Important For Your Tattoo:
UVB Rays
UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and are also linked to skin cancer. These types of radiation can damage the outer layers of skin, causing the tattoo ink to lift from the dermis. UVB rays are primarily responsible for damaging the epidermis’s very top layers. Sunburn is caused by UVB radiation in most cases. Sunburned skin has the potential to cause serious damage to tattoos, particularly if they are new.
This is why it’s important to not only put sunscreen on a new tattoo but also to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as much as possible during the healing process.
If you must be in the sun, make sure to cover your tattoo with clothing or a bandage and reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Also, be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
UVA Rays
Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays are more inclined to deeply penetrate the skin, resulting in greater long-term damage. These types of radiation can cause premature aging of the skin in areas where the tattoo ink is present and lead to sagging or wrinkling [1].
UVA radiation may also cause tattoo inks to fade. According to tattoo artists, lighter-colored ink fades faster than darker ink. The fastest fading colors are white and pastel hues. Even black and gray inks, however, can fade with time if not preserved.
What Should You Look For In A Tattoo-Protecting Sunscreen:
1) Cream, Oil, Or Spray
When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for your tattoo, you have three main options: cream, oil, or spray.
Each has its own set of pros and cons that you should consider before making a decision:
- Cream sunscreens are typically the most affordable option and offer good coverage. However, they can be difficult to apply evenly, especially on larger tattoos. They also tend to rub off more easily than other types of sunscreen;
- Oil-based sunscreens provide better coverage than creams and are less likely to rub off. However, they can be messy to apply and may not work well with certain types of tattoo ink;
- Spray sunscreens are the most convenient option, but they can be more difficult to control when applied. They also don’t provide as much coverage as cream or oil-based sunscreens;
No matter which type of sunscreen you choose, be sure to reapply often, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. And always consult with your tattoo artist before applying anything to your tattoo. They will know best what products and methods are safe to use on your new ink.
2) SPF Rating The SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The higher the SPF, the better the protection [2].
For tattoos, you should always look for a sunscreen product with an SPF of at least 30. And remember, no matter how high the SPF, you should always reapply every two hours (or more often if you’re swimming or sweating).
3) Safe Ingredients
When it comes to ingredients, you should always look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These physical blockers provide the best protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two of the most effective ingredients in sunscreen, so be sure to look for them when shopping for a product to protect your tattoo. And remember, no matter how high the SPF, you should always reapply every two hours (or more often if you’re swimming or sweating) [3].
With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to find a sunscreen that will work well for your new tattoo. Just be sure to consult with your artist before applying anything to your tattoo, and reapply often to ensure the best protection.
4) Ingredients That May Be Less Safe
While zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two of the most effective ingredients in sunscreen, other ingredients may be less safe. These include chemicals like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate.
These chemicals have been shown to penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. They may also disrupt hormones and cause other health problems. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid sunscreens with these ingredients, especially if you’re using them on a new tattoo.
5) Artificial Colors & Scents
Some sunscreens also contain artificial colors and scents. These ingredients are added for aesthetic purposes and don’t provide any sunscreen benefits. They may even be harmful to your skin.
Artificial colors and scents are used in a variety of over-the-counter sun protection products to create a more aesthetic and sensual appeal. New tattoos, however, may be sensitive to these manmade additions, and even artificial elements in soaps and lotions can irritate a new tattoo [4].
6) Thickness & Consistency
When applied to the skin, sunscreen should be smooth and even. It shouldn’t be too thick or pasty, as this can make it difficult to spread evenly. And it shouldn’t be too thin or runny, as this can make it difficult to control when applied.
The ideal consistency for sunscreen is somewhere in between thick and thin. It should be easy to spread but not so runny that it drips off your skin. And remember, no matter how high the SPF, you should always reapply every two hours (or more often if you’re swimming or sweating).
7) Stickiness
Sunscreen can also be sticky, which can be a problem if you’re trying to apply it to a new tattoo. Stickiness can make it difficult to spread the sunscreen evenly, and it can also make your tattoo more susceptible to smudging or fading.
If you’re worried about stickiness, look for a sunscreen that is labeled “non-greasy” or “oil-free”. These products are less likely to be sticky and will help you avoid any problems with your new tattoo.
How Often Should You Apply Sunscreen To Your Tattoo?
Every two hours, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your tattoo. Also, make sure to reapply after swimming or sweating. If you can’t find a sunscreen that is specifically for tattoos, you can use a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. If you’re swimming or sweating a lot, reapply sunscreen more often. After swimming or perspiring heavily for 80 minutes, the acceptable time restriction is 120 minutes [5].
You should also avoid sun exposure as much as possible while your tattoo is healing. This means wearing clothes that cover your tattoo and staying in the shade when you’re outside. After your tattoo has healed, you can go back to using any type of sunscreen.
If you have any questions about caring for your new tattoo, be sure to ask your artist or doctor. They will be able to give you specific instructions on what to do and what to avoid.
How Long After Getting A Tattoo Can I Put Sunscreen On It?
The reality is, that you should wait until your tattoo has healed before applying sunscreen. This usually takes anywhere from two to four weeks. If your tattoo is still healing, it will be more susceptible to sun damage and may even fade if exposed to too much sunlight. You’re ready to apply sunscreen after waiting at least 6 weeks and completing the entire healing process [6].
How To Keep Your Tattoo Looking Good In The Sun?
The sun can be very damaging to your tattoo, causing it to fade and lose its vibrant colors. If you are planning on spending time in the sun, it is important to protect your tattoo by applying sunscreen.
There are a few things to keep in mind when applying sunscreen to a new tattoo [7]:
- Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher;
- Apply the sunscreen generously and evenly over the tattoo;
- Reapply the sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming;
- Avoid sun exposure during the healing process, which can take up to four weeks. After your tattoo has healed, you can safely enjoy time in the sun! Just be sure to protect your ink by using sunscreen;
Sunscreen is an important part of protecting your tattoo, but it is not the only thing you need to do. Be sure to also:
- Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants;
- Seek shade when possible;
- Limit your time in the sun, especially during the midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest;
Do You Need A Sunscreen Specifically Made For Tattoos?
Fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals can all irritate the skin. That is why you should be particularly cautious about the components of sunscreen that will be used to protect your tattoo.
Low-quality sunscreens that contain artificial ingredients are more likely to cause problems for your tattooed skin. Your skin is sensitive and needs gentle, chemical-free sun protection that is also effective against UVA and UVB rays [8].
How To Treat A Sunburned Tattoo?
Tattoos are a great way to show your personality, but they can be a pain to deal with when it comes to sunburns. If you’ve ever had a sunburned tattoo, you know how uncomfortable it can be. The good news is that there are ways to treat a sunburned tattoo so that you can heal quickly and get back to enjoying your ink.
Here are some tips for treating a sunburned tattoo:
- Apply aloe vera gel or lotion to the affected area. This will help soothe the skin and speed up the healing process;
- Take ibuprofen or another over-the-counter pain reliever to help ease the discomfort;
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated;
- Apply a cold compress to the tattoo for 20 minutes at a time;
- Keep the tattoo clean and dry. Gently wash it with soap and water, then pat it dry;
Other Tips To Protect Your Tattoo While On The Beach/Pool:
- Wear light, breathable clothing that covers your tattoo;
- Avoid getting sand on your tattoo;
- Rinse off your tattoo with fresh water as soon as possible after swimming or sweating;
- Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion to your tattoo several times a day;
- Stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you must be in the sun, cover your tattoo with sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30;
FAQ:
- Can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo?
Applying sunscreen to a new tattoo will help protect it from the sun’s UV rays and keep it looking its best. Be sure to choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply the sunscreen generously to the tattooed area and reapply as needed, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
- What is the ideal SPF rating for tattoos?
If you are looking for an ideal sunscreen for your tattoo, then you should look for one with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. This will help to protect your tattoo from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
You should also make sure that the sunscreen you choose is waterproof so that it can stay on your skin when you are sweating or swimming. And, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours to ensure that your tattoo is protected from the sun.
- What’s the soonest you can apply sunscreen on a tattoo?
You can apply sunscreen on a tattoo as soon as it has healed – usually, up to 6 weeks. However, you should consult your tattoo artist or dermatologist to find out what type of sunscreen is best for your tattoo. Some sunscreens can cause tattoos to fade, so it’s important to choose one that will protect your tattoo without causing any damage.
If you’re going to be spending time in the sun, make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours, even if your tattoo is covered. And if you’re swimming or sweating, make sure to reapply immediately after getting out of the water or wiping away sweat.
- What does sun exposure do to a new tattoo?
Sun exposure is one of the worst things you can do to a new tattoo. It can cause the ink to fade, and it also increases your risk of infection.
That’s why it’s so important to protect your tattoo from the sun, especially in the first few weeks after getting it. The best way to do this is to apply sunscreen before going outside, and then reapply it every 2 hours or so.
If you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure to cover up your tattoo with clothing or a hat. And if you start to feel any pain or discomfort, get out of the sun immediately and seek medical attention.
- Will a sunburn ruin a new tattoo?
No, a sunburn will not ruin a new tattoo. However, it is important to protect your tattoo from the sun during the healing process. After getting a new tattoo, you should apply sunscreen to it every day for at least 4 weeks. Make sure to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours.
If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time, you should also wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your tattoo heals properly and doesn’t fade over time.
- How much do the sun fade tattoos?
New tattoos will fade if exposed to sunlight. If your tattoo is not fully healed, the sun could cause blistering. You should keep a new tattoo hidden from the sun for at least three to four weeks [9].
- Why does a tattoo bubble after it’s been in the sun?
Tattoo ink resides in the dermis, the second and deepest layer of your skin. UVA rays are able to easily penetrate this layer, which is generally protected from sunlight’s burning rays. If you’re exposed to UVA rays on a daily basis, the ink will deteriorate over time.
When your skin is burned, the top layer of the skin (epidermis) peels away. This exposes the dermis and can cause the ink to bubble up and fall out. In extreme cases, too much sun exposure can lead to permanent scarring or discoloration of the tattoo [10].
- Should I cover my tattoo at night?
You should always cover your new tattoo at night. This will help to keep the tattoo clean and free from bacteria. It is also important to keep the tattoo moisturized so that it does not dry out and crack.
- What happens if a new tattoo gets wet?
If your new tattoo gets wet, it’s important to pat it dry immediately. Water can cause the ink to spread and may lead to an infection.
- Can I put sunscreen on a 2-week-old tattoo?
If you’ve recently gotten a tattoo, hold off on applying sunscreen to the area until it’s completely healed. To avoid exposing your tattoo to sunlight, cover it with clothing instead [11].
- Why is my tattoo so itchy?
If your tattoo is itchy, it’s probably because the area is still healing. The best thing to do is to leave it alone and let it heal. If the itchiness persists, you can try applying a thin layer of lotion to the area. Avoid scratching or picking at the tattoo, as this can cause infection or damage the design.
Useful Video: Protecting tattoos from the sun?
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/tattoo-sunscreen#sunscreen-benefits
- https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=85&contentid=P01351
- https://brushonblock.com/blogs/news/spf-sunscreen-tattoos
- https://authoritytattoo.com/sunscreen-on-new-tattoos/
- https://brushonblock.com/blogs/news/spf-sunscreen-tattoos
- https://nextluxury.com/mens-style-and-fashion/can-you-put-sunscreen-on-a-new-tattoo/
- https://brushonblock.com/blogs/news/spf-sunscreen-tattoos
- https://www.savedtattoo.com/when-can-i-put-sunscreen-on-my-tattoo/
- https://marineagency.com/how-to-protect-your-tattoos-in-the-sun
- https://bluelizardsunscreen.com/blogs/news/how-does-the-sun-damage-a-tattoo
- https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/tattoo-sunscreen