How to protect tattoos from the sun
And which products to use to do it best
G-Club
July 9th, 2024
July 9th, 2024
Tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. We get them to signal our belonging to a place, a cultural movement, or an aesthetic trend. We get them to follow trends or to rebel against them, to remember and commemorate, to take ownership of a body that feels out of our control. Small or large, colorful or black and white, realistic or totally cartoonish: in any case, we get them. And if we get them, we must also protect and care for them, especially in the summer.
How to protect a tattoo from the sun?
Protecting your precious tattoos from the sun's rays is essential for keeping them in shape and especially for preventing damage to the skin and the tattoo itself. How to do it? It’s easier than you might think, but it requires constant attention, especially if the tattoo is not yet fully healed. Some tattoo artists even advise against getting tattoos in the summer for this very reason. Never underestimate the damage the sun can do!
Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30-50 on the tattoo, preferably one formulated for sensitive skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you sweat or get wet.
Cover the tattoo: Wear clothing that covers the tattoo, such as long-sleeve shirts or pants, especially during peak sun hours (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Seek shade: When outdoors, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Use umbrellas, wide-brimmed hats, or other accessories to reduce direct sun exposure.
@markdtattoo Always be safe in the sun. The sun can affect your tattoos in the long run. This is a good example of what the sun can do over the years. #sunsafe #tattoos #sleevetattoo #sydneytattooartist #colourtattoo original sound - MARKD | Sydney Tattoos
Avoid sun exposure in the first few weeks: If the tattoo is recent, completely avoid sun exposure for at least 2-3 weeks. The skin must heal completely before being exposed to UV rays.
Moisturize the skin: Keep the skin well-moisturized with tattoo-specific creams or moisturizing lotions. Well-moisturized skin helps to preserve the tattoo colors.
Avoid chlorine and saltwater: In pools or at the beach, chlorine and saltwater can fade the tattoo. Rinse the skin with fresh water immediately after swimming.
Regularly check your tattoo: Pay attention to any changes in the color or texture of the tattoo and consult a dermatologist if you notice anything unusual.
The risks of prolonged and unprotected sun exposure
What happens if we consciously or unconsciously decide not to follow these rules? The consequences can vary. Unprotected or overly prolonged sun exposure of a tattoo can cause: color fading (especially for bright colors and darker shades like black), skin damage and thus damage to the tattoo (sunburn, peeling, etc.), irritation, and itching. If the tattoo is recent, sun exposure can slow down its healing and increase the risk of infection. Newly tattooed skin is more delicate and vulnerable, so be careful!
