No, you should not put sunscreen on a new tattoo. After getting a fresh tattoo, your skin is healing. Sunscreen can irritate the sensitive area and interfere with the healing process.
Instead, you should keep your new tattoo covered and protected from the sun until it has fully healed.
Why You Should Avoid Sunscreen on a New Tattoo
A new tattoo is essentially an open wound. Your skin needs time to repair itself after the tattooing process. Applying sunscreen, even if it’s gentle or made for sensitive skin, can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. This is because sunscreens often contain chemicals and fragrances that are not suitable for damaged or healing skin.
When you apply sunscreen to a fresh tattoo, you risk introducing these chemicals into the wound. This can lead to redness, swelling, or even infection. Your body needs to go through its natural healing process without interference, and sunscreen could disrupt that process.
Only use tattoo aftercare products recommended by your artist during this healing period of your new piece of art.
How Long Should You Wait Before Using Sunscreen on a Tattoo?
You should wait until your tattoo is fully healed before applying sunscreen. The healing process typically takes two to four weeks, depending on the size, location, and how well you care for your tattoo. Once the skin has fully healed—when it’s no longer red, scabbed, or peeling—sunscreen can be applied safely.
During the healing phase, avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight. Sun exposure during this time can damage the skin and fade the tattoo’s colors. To protect your tattoo while it’s healing, keep it covered with loose clothing when you go outside.
What Happens if You Don’t Protect a New Tattoo from the Sun?
Direct sunlight can cause significant damage to a new tattoo. Freshly inked skin is more sensitive to UV rays than normal skin. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to:
- Fading of the tattoo: Sunlight breaks down the pigments in tattoo ink, causing the colors to fade faster.
- Blisters and peeling: Sun exposure can lead to burns, blisters, and peeling, which can damage the tattoo and prolong the healing process.
- Scarring: If your skin burns, it may scar, which could affect the appearance of your tattoo.
To avoid these issues, it’s best to stay out of the sun or keep your tattoo covered until it has fully healed.
Safe Ways to Protect Your New Tattoo from the Sun
While you wait for your tattoo to heal, here are a few ways to keep it safe from the sun:
- Wear protective clothing: Use lightweight, loose-fitting clothes to cover your tattoo. Avoid tight clothes that may rub against the tattoo and irritate the skin.
- Stay in the shade: If possible, avoid being outside during peak sunlight hours, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
- Use a physical barrier: If your tattoo is in a location that’s hard to cover with clothing, you can use a bandage or medical-grade wrap to protect it. Be sure to change the bandage regularly to keep the area clean and dry.
When Is It Safe to Use Sunscreen on a Healed Tattoo?
Once your tattoo has completely healed, sunscreen is a must whenever you’re outside. Even healed tattoos are susceptible to sun damage. UV rays can fade the colors and blur the details over time.
When choosing a sunscreen for a healed tattoo, look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection. A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended, but higher SPF provides even more protection. Water-resistant sunscreens are also a good option if you plan to swim or sweat.
Make sure to apply sunscreen generously to the tattooed area, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid on Tattoos
Even after your tattoo has healed, certain sunscreen ingredients can still be irritating. To keep your tattoo looking its best, avoid sunscreens that contain:
- Oxybenzone: This common sunscreen ingredient can be harsh on the skin and may cause allergic reactions.
- Fragrances: Many sunscreens contain added fragrances that can cause irritation, even on healed skin.
- Alcohol: Sunscreens with alcohol can dry out the skin, which may cause your tattoo to look dull over time.
Instead, choose sunscreens that are labeled “fragrance-free” and “alcohol-free,” and look for products designed for sensitive skin.
FAQs About Putting Sunscreen on a New Tattoo
1. Can I use a moisturizer with SPF on a new tattoo?
No, you should avoid using any products containing SPF on a new tattoo. Even though moisturizers with SPF are often gentler than traditional sunscreens, they can still contain chemicals that may irritate the healing skin. Stick to fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizers specifically formulated for sensitive or healing skin, but avoid anything with SPF until your tattoo is fully healed.
2. Can I use natural sunscreens like zinc oxide on a fresh tattoo?
No, even natural sunscreens like zinc oxide should not be used on a new tattoo. While zinc oxide is less likely to cause irritation than chemical sunscreens, it can still create a barrier that traps moisture and bacteria, potentially leading to infection. Wait until your tattoo is fully healed before applying any form of sunscreen, natural or otherwise.
3. How can I tell when my tattoo is ready for sunscreen?
Your tattoo is ready for sunscreen once it is fully healed. Signs that your tattoo has healed include the absence of scabs, peeling skin, and redness. The skin should feel smooth and look normal with no signs of sensitivity or irritation. This typically takes about two to four weeks, but it can vary based on the size of the tattoo and how well it’s cared for during the healing process.
4. Will tanning beds affect a new tattoo the same way as direct sunlight?
Yes, tanning beds can cause the same, if not worse, damage to a new tattoo as direct sunlight. The UV rays from tanning beds can lead to fading, burning, and scarring on a fresh tattoo. You should avoid tanning beds entirely while your tattoo is healing, and once it’s healed, use sunscreen or cover the tattoo to protect it from UV exposure.
A Summary
You should not put sunscreen on a new tattoo. Doing so can interfere with the healing process and may lead to irritation or infection. Instead, focus on keeping your tattoo covered and out of direct sunlight until it has fully healed.
Once your tattoo is healed, using sunscreen is important to protect it from fading and other sun damage. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your tattoo stays vibrant and healthy for years to come.
