15 Best Sunscreen for Tattoos

If you’ve recently gotten a new tattoo or even had one for years, you might wonder how best to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. The thing is, you really should keep the tattoo out of the sun for the first 3-4 weeks so it can heal, and then once it’s somewhat healed, you can use a tattoo sunscreen to protect it.

One of the most effective ways to do that is by using a tattoo-friendly sunscreen. Why does it need to be tattoo-friendly? Because some sunscreens contain fragrances or other ingredients that can actually irritate the area of skin you had tattooed.

This post digs into the best sunscreen options and provides comprehensive guidance on what to look for when selecting a sunscreen for your tattoo.

What Sunscreen is Best for a New Tattoo?

When choosing an excellent sunscreen for tattoos, several factors come into play to ensure both the longevity of your ink and the health of your skin, especially when you’re trying to reduce swelling! 30 SPF is crucial for blocking harmful UV rays that can fade the colors and blur the lines of your tattoo.

Water resistance is another key feature, especially if you plan on swimming or are prone to sweating, as it keeps the sunscreen from washing off too quickly. The formula should ideally be mineral-based or physical, as these types of sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin and provide a robust barrier against sun exposure.

Ease of application is also important; options include sprays, sticks, or lotions (we have an excellent rundown of the best lotions for tattoos), each with benefits for ensuring thorough coverage. Lastly, consider whether the sunscreen is fragrance-free or has a mild scent, as strong fragrances can sometimes cause skin irritation. Considering these elements, you can select a sunscreen that will keep your tattoo vibrant and your skin protected.

Why Sunscreen is Essential for Tattoos

Sun exposure can wreak havoc on your tattoo for several reasons:

1. Fading Colors: UV rays can cause your tattoo’s colors to fade.
2. Skin Damage: Like any other part of your skin, tattooed areas are susceptible to sunburn and long-term sun damage.
3. Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: Tattooed or not, unprotected sun exposure increases your risk of developing skin cancer.

Best Sunscreen Choices

Sunscreen Must Haves

SPF Level

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, the type of radiation that causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. Aim for sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for tattoos. Higher SPF levels offer more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.

Water Resistance

If you’re planning to swim or you sweat a lot, look for a sunscreen labeled as water-resistant. The FDA usually mandates that water-resistant sunscreens must maintain their SPF level after 40 or 80 minutes of water exposure.

Formula

When it comes to tattoos, mineral-based or physical sunscreens are often recommended. These sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which act as a physical barrier that reflects the sun’s rays away from your skin. They are also less likely to irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions.

Application Method

Sunscreen comes in various forms – lotions, sprays, and sticks. Choose the one that you find most accessible to apply and reapply. Sprays can be convenient but make sure you get all the spots. Sticks are excellent for precision but may require effort to spread evenly. Lotions are generally the easiest to apply over large areas.

Fragrance-Free or Pleasant Scent

If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to go for fragrance-free options. Fragrances can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. However, if you prefer scented sunscreens, opt for those with a pleasant but not overpowering scent.

Expert Tips

1. Keep the Area Clean: Use antibacterial soap to keep the tattoo clean (we have an article on the best soaps for tattoos).
2. Reapplication is Key: No matter how high the SPF, reapplication every two hours is crucial for ongoing protection.
3. Quantity Matters: Dermatologists recommend using a “shot glass” amount of sunscreen for each application on the body. Don’t skimp!
4. Patch Test: Always do a small patch test to ensure the product doesn’t irritate your skin, especially if you’ve recently gotten your tattoo.
5. Consult a Professional: Consult your tattoo artist or a dermatologist for personalized advice if in doubt.