This is how you deal with your tattoo in the sun
Getting a new tattoo? Wonderful. But then the real work begins: making sure it stays beautiful. Especially now that the sun is showing itself more, it's super important to take good care of it. Have no idea how to do that? No panic, with these tips you can just enjoy your summer without your tattoo fading or getting damaged. Let’s dive in.
Why the sun is really not good for your tattoo
Sunlight and tattoos? Not an ideal match. The ink in your skin reacts to UV radiation: it slowly breaks down the color molecules, causing your tattoo to become blurry and dull. Especially UVA radiation – you know, the kind that’s also in tanning beds – penetrates deeply and can seriously damage your beautiful new artwork. And if your tattoo is still fresh, the sun also disrupts the healing process.
Of course, the best thing is to stay out of the sun and give yourself a good excuse to park indoors all day. But let’s be honest: no one is going to do that. And you don’t have to. Here are a few tips so you can enjoy the sun without compromising your tattoo.
First rule: fresh tattoo? long sleeves!
A new tattoo is basically a little wound. Your skin needs time to heal, which usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. The first 15 days are crucial: Cover the area with a sterile gauze or clothing. Think: a linen blouse, a loose-fitting shirt with long sleeves, or a bandage (for smaller designs). What you could also do? Wait to get your fresh tattoo until after summer.
Rule two: Swimming? Wait a minute…
Sea and pool water are not a good idea in the first weeks after getting your tattoo. Chlorine and salt can irritate your tattoo and affect the color. Are you going anyway? Rinse the skin well afterward with a mild, fragrance-free wash gel, such as Bepanthen Tattoo Wash Gel. This is specially developed for sensitive, freshly tattooed skin. Swimming with your tattoo? Here are all the do’s and don’ts.
And then… just apply! Especially for the tattoos that have been there for a while
Is your tattoo healed? Then sunscreen is your new best friend. Choose a variant with SPF50+, specially for tattooed skin. Why special? Because regular sunscreen sometimes contains substances that can irritate your sensitive skin.
or La Roche-Posay Anthelios are good choices: high protection, easy to apply, and without a white cast.
Color tattoos are the most sensitive to the sun, especially those with red tones and pastel colors fade the fastest in the sun. Also, areas like shoulders, neck, arms, and feet are extra vulnerable, simply because they are more often exposed to sunlight. Black ink usually stays beautiful the longest, but even that needs love (and SPF –mood) too.
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Can you apply sunscreen on a fresh tattoo?
No, preferably not. Sunscreen can irritate the skin or even cause infections if your tattoo is not yet healed. Wait until the wound is completely closed – usually about 6 to 8 weeks – and only then apply. Until then: cover, hydrate, and be careful with swimming.
Are temporary tattoos the solution?
Do you want a tattoo for the summer, but don’t want the hassle or are you still a bit unsure about the placement or size? Then temporary tattoos are your summer BFF - believe me. They come in all shapes and styles: from minimalist hearts to edgy snakes or beautiful quotes.
And note: nowadays they look so realistic that no one realizes you haven't spent hours under the needle. Stick them on with a bit of water, let them dry for a moment, and voilà: instant cool without any pain. They often last about a week (depending on where you stick them, how often you shower, and which ones you buy). The tattoos from Inkster last about two weeks, here you can shop for them.
Tattoo care in 4 simple steps
- Stay out of the sun (at least 2 weeks, preferably longer)
- No swimming (chlorine and salt = bad news)
- Don’t scratch or pick (leave scabs alone)
- Hydrate daily (with a gentle, fragrance-free ointment)
Extra tips for a tattoo-friendly summer
- Avoid excessive sweating: wait a bit with heavy workouts. Sweat can irritate your skin.
- No tanning beds: the radiation is way too intense for a fresh tattoo.
- Listen to your body: does your skin feel tight or red? Seek shade and apply more.
- Best sunscreens for tattoos: La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Ultra-Light Fluid: light texture, absorbs quickly. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF 50+: fine spray form without white streaks. Bepanthen Tattoo Sunscreen SPF 50+: specially developed for tattooed skin, dermatologically tested.
- Hydrate daily, even outside of summer.
- Wear protective clothing on long days in the sun.
Image: @haileybieber
