Getting a new tattoo is exciting, and you’ll want to show it off as soon as possible. But like the rest of your skin, you also want to keep it safe from sun damage.
Tattoos are permanent, but so is sun damage in some cases. Failing to protect your skin in the sunshine increases your risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and, of course, painful sunburns.
Your new tattoo needs special care, and knowing what you should and shouldn’t put on your body art can help ensure that your ink lasts for many years to come. Read on to discover when you should start using sunscreen and lotion for tattoos and what type you should apply.
Can I Put Sunscreen on a New Tattoo?
No, you should not apply sunscreen to a new tattoo. Fresh tattoos are essentially wounds. Ink is delivered through tiny punctures into the skin, which can scab, flake, and feel especially sensitive during the first few days.
Introducing sunscreen or other skincare products too early may irritate the area or disrupt healing. It’s always best to follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions and only use the products they recommend during this initial phase.
Typically, you’ll need to wait four to six weeks before using sunscreen, but that timeline can vary based on tattoo placement, skin sensitivity, and how well the area is cared for.
When Is It Safe to Start Using Sunscreen on a Tattoo?
Once your tattoo is fully healed, sunscreen can help keep your ink vibrant and defend your skin from UV exposure. But how do you know it’s ready?
Look for signs like:
- No redness or inflammation
- No flaking or peeling skin
- No scabbing
- No oozing
Because healing time is different for everyone, focus on these physical cues rather than the calendar. Until then, keep the area covered with loose clothing and avoid direct sun exposure.
Why Sunscreen Matters for Healed Tattoos
If you already have a tattoo, sunscreen is essential. UV rays can damage your skin, but you might not have realized that the sun can also permanently alter your tattoos.
Sunlight can cause the ink to fade or crack,1 distorting the image or causing it to lose its vibrancy. That’s why you must invest in sunscreen lotion for tattoos.
Choose a sunscreen safe for tattoos that fits your lifestyle, making it easy to apply every day.
What Kind of Sunscreen Is Safe for Tattoos?
While some brands market products specifically as tattoo sunscreen, what matters most is choosing a broad-spectrum SPF that’s gentle, effective, and safe for healed skin. Below are our recommendations to help keep your skin protected and your ink looking vibrant.
Choose Mineral Formulas
Mineral sunscreen is gentle on your skin, protecting without penetrating too deeply. It’s ideal for delicate skin, including inked areas.
Use Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+
Broad-spectrum SPF protects you from both UVA and UVB rays for well-rounded protection. Use SPF 30 at least and stock up on SPF 50 when you’re likely to be exposed to the sun for long periods. Water-resistant formulas will help you enjoy the pool, beach, or sports. Just don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours.
Match Format to Your Needs
Think you’re limited to lotion? Think again. Mineral sunscreens come in a variety of formats to fit your needs. Mineral stick sunscreen offers precise application and targeted protection, perfect for smaller areas or touch-ups, with SPF levels up to 50.
For easy, all-over reapplication, try a sheer mineral sunscreen spray that delivers a fine mist wherever you need it. When you want reliable, even coverage over larger tattooed areas, a fragrance-free mineral sunscreen lotion is ideal, especially for sensitive skin.
You can also explore SPF serums, or moisturizers with added benefits, like formulas that help mitigate the effects of blue light, infrared, and pollution.
Already Have Tattoos? Here’s How to Protect Them Daily
Cancer experts recommend mineral sunscreen for tattooed skin,2 and point out that newly inked areas will feel more sensitive to the sun due to the additional inflammation. Here are some top tips on protecting your existing tattoos:
- Apply sheer mineral SPF each morning to all exposed skin, including tattoos.
- Reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
- Re-hydrate with after-sun products and drink plenty of water
Don’t rely on clothing alone to protect existing tattoos. Thin fabrics allow UV light to penetrate, so you still need SPF.
FAQs About Tattoos and Sunscreen
Can I put sunscreen on a new tattoo after a week?
No. One week is typically too soon. Wait until any scabbing, flaking, and redness are gone, which usually takes two to four weeks.
What kind of sunscreen is best for tattoos?
Use a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. These are gentler on the skin and offer reliable UV protection without irritating your inked areas.
When should I start applying sunscreen to a new tattoo?
Start only after the tattoo has fully healed. This may take 4-6 weeks, depending on the area, the sensitivity of your skin, and how well it’s looked after. Before that, use protective clothing or stay out of the sun.
Does sunscreen actually protect tattoos from fading?
Yes. Broad-spectrum SPF shields tattoo ink from UV damage, helping maintain your tattoos’ vibrancy and definition over time.
What happens if sunscreen gets on a healing tattoo?
Rinse the area gently with water. Avoid rubbing or applying more product. Monitor your skin for irritation.
Do I need a tattoo-specific sunscreen?
No, but choose wisely. A fragrance-free, mineral SPF is ideal, especially for daily use on sensitive or inked skin.
Protect the Art You Love With Daily SPF
So, can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo? Not right away, but once it’s healed, you’ll want to find a sunscreen safe for tattoos to keep it looking its best. If you’re one of the 23% of Americans who have a tattoo,1 use sheer mineral sunscreens daily to keep your skin healthier and those tattoos looking their best.
Sources:
- Christian D Gonzalez et al. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. "Aftercare Instructions in the Tattoo Community: An Opportunity to Educate on Sun Protection and Increase Skin Cancer Awareness." NIH, PMC; June 2020. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7442309
- Molly Adams. MD Anderson Cancer Center. "4 myths about tattoos, sunscreen and sun safety." July 2022. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/how-to-protect-tattoos-from-sun-exposure-sunscreen.h00-159541323.html#
