Sunscreen For Tattoos: Can You Put Sunscreen On New Tattoos?
Sunscreen For Tattoos
Getting a tattoo isn’t just about the design—it’s an investment in self-expression. And like any work of art, it needs protection to stay bold and vibrant.
You may have heard that one way to help preserve your work is by diligently wearing sunscreen. And while this is very true (more to come on that!), it’s important to note that you cannot use sunscreen on a fresh tattoo. The reason? Fresh tattoos are open wounds and need to be treated as such. It's crucial not to apply sunscreen on fresh pieces during the healing process as it can irritate the sensitive area. Instead, you should keep the new tattoo completely out of the sun until it has fully healed. Direct sun exposure can cause fading, irritation, and long-term damage to your tattoo. If your tattoo must be exposed to the sun, keep the area completely covered with loose fitting clothing.
So what’s the move once your tattoo is healed? This guide breaks down the do’s and don’ts of sun protection, helping you navigate the early healing process and beyond. From when to start using sunscreen to how to choose the right SPF, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your tattoo looking fresh for years to come. Because let’s be real - your tattoos deserve to look and feel good for life. Real never fades!
Why Tattoos Need Sun Protection (No, It’s Not Optional)
A lot of you might ask, "Can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo?" And while that’s a good question, the answer is straightforward: if it's fresh, you should NOT use sunscreen…as counterintuitive as that sounds. Fresh tattoos are open wounds, and sunscreen can clog pores, cause irritation, and interfere with healing. The best (and only!) protection for a fresh tattoo is keeping it completely out of the sun. Once it’s past the healing stage (usually a minimum of 4 weeks or as recommended by your artist, but the longer, the better), sunscreen and loose clothing are essential to protect both your tattoo and overall skin health from direct sunlight.
Tattoos fade when they get too much sun. The sun's UV rays break down the tattoo over time and make tattoos look old and faded. Skin can also get sun damage, leading to wrinkles or even skin cancer from too much exposure to UV rays.
That's why using sunscreen on tattoos is a must, not a choice. It's the number one sun safety measure for harmful UVA and UVB rays.
A good sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays with at least SPF 30 protection. It helps keep your tattooed skin looking fresh and protects your skin from harm.
While sunscreen is the essential first step, your daily tattoo care should not stop there. For added nourishment post-sun, follow up with a daily lotion, like the Hustle Butter Daily Rejuvenating Lotion, to hydrate skin and ink.
The Hustler’s Guide to Sunscreen for Tattoos
Now that you know why sunscreen is essential, let’s get into choosing the right one—because not all sunscreens are created equal. Here’s what to look for when protecting your ink:
- SPF 30 or Higher – SPF 30 is the minimum requirement as it shields against harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of fading, discoloration, and sun damage. However, for optimal tattoo maintenance, we always recommend using SPF 50 or higher. Why compromise when it comes to your tattoo?
- Broad-Spectrum Protection – Your tattoo needs full coverage from both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). A broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks both to keep your tattooed skin in top shape.
- Mineral-Based Formula – Look for mineral sunscreens containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Mineral sunscreens maintain their effectiveness over time, offering long-lasting protection. Additionally, these mineral-based sunscreens are not only kinder to your skin but are also more sustainable for the earth, as they are less likely to harm marine life and ecosystems.
How to Apply Sunscreen Without Screwing Up Your Tattoo
Once your tattoo is healed, it’s time to protect it for long-lasting vibrancy. Here’s how to apply sunscreen without messing up your ink:
- Apply a thin, even layer – Cover your entire tattoo, including the edges, to prevent uneven fading. Avoid rubbing too hard—gentle application keeps your ink looking fresh.
- Reapply every 2 hours – Sunscreen breaks down over time, so consistent reapplication is key. If you’re sweating or swimming, apply it even more frequently to maintain full protection.
- Daily Use - Sunscreen is not something that should only be used on vacation. If you want tattoos that look and feel their best long term add sunscreen to your daily skincare routine. Trust us, it’ll make all the difference.
Using sunscreen on your healed tattoo is crucial in preserving its vibrant color and preventing skin damage caused by UV radiation.
Conclusion
Keeping your tattoo looking bold and vibrant long-term isn’t just about the healing process—it’s about long-term care. Sun exposure is one of the biggest culprits behind fading, blurring, and dulling, so daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Once your tattoo is fully healed, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher should become part of your routine. Think of it as a shield that locks in your tattoo’s color and detail, keeping it looking fresh for years to come.
For new tattoos, patience is key—wait at least four weeks (or as recommended by your artist) before introducing sunscreen. In the meantime, protect your tattoo by staying out of the sun completely (or at the very least by wearing loose, protective clothing). When your tattoo is fully healed, choose a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF30+ to provide effective UV protection. Your tattoo is a personal expression, so treat it like one. Sun care today means a lifetime of sharp, vibrant ink. Hustle Butter’s got you covered today, tomorrow, and forever.
FAQs
Can I use sunscreen on a fresh tattoo?
No, you should not use sunscreen on a fresh tattoo. Fresh tattoos are open wounds, and applying sunscreen can cause irritation, clog pores, and interfere with the healing process. Instead, keep your new tattoo out of the sun and cover it with loose clothing until it has fully healed.
Why is sunscreen important for tattoos?
Sunscreen is essential for tattoos because UV rays from the sun can cause fading, discoloration, and long-term damage to your tattoo. Regular sunscreen use helps protect both your tattoo and skin from harmful UV rays, keeping your tattoo vibrant and your skin safe from sun damage.
When can I start using sunscreen on my tattoo?
You should wait at least 4 weeks after getting your tattoo (or as recommended by your artist) before using sunscreen. Until your tattoo is fully healed, keep it protected from the sun by covering it with loose clothing.
What type of sunscreen is best for tattoos?
The best sunscreen for tattoos is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Mineral-based formulas containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal as they provide long-lasting protection and are kinder to the skin and the environment.
How often should I apply sunscreen to my tattoo?
You should apply a thin, even layer of sunscreen every 2 hours when exposed to the sun. If you’re sweating or swimming, reapply more frequently to ensure your tattoo remains protected.
Can I use sunscreen on my tattoo every day?
Yes, sunscreen should be a part of your daily skincare routine once your tattoo is healed. Daily use of sunscreen will help keep your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant long-term by preventing UV damage.
What SPF should I use for tattoo protection?
SPF 30 is the minimum recommended for protecting tattoos, but for optimal care, SPF 50 or higher is preferred. The higher the SPF, the better the protection from harmful UV rays, keeping your tattoo looking sharp for years to come.
Why should I choose mineral sunscreen for my tattoo?
Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are more effective at blocking UV rays over time. These sunscreens are also gentler on your skin and better for the environment compared to chemical sunscreens. They are a great choice for long-term tattoo care.