We’ve been enjoying the unseasonably good weather from our busy Tattoo Shop in Lancashire, so thought it seemed a good time to remind you all about looking after your tats in the sun! Whilst the warm months invite us to show more skin, sunshine can be the nemesis of beautiful tattoos. UV exposure is one of the leading causes of tattoo fading and degradation, making sun protection essential for preserving your body art. Whether you’re sporting fresh ink or protecting decades-old tattoos, this guide will help you keep your artwork vibrant through sunny days.
Why Sun Damages Tattoos
Understanding why tattoos and sunshine don’t mix helps emphasise the importance of protection:
The Science Behind Sun Damage
Ultraviolet (UV) rays penetrate the skin and break down tattoo pigments. The ink particles absorb the radiation, which causes them to fragment into smaller pieces. Over time, this leads to fading, blurring, and colour shifts in your tattoo.
Different Effects on Different Colours
Not all tattoo pigments react to sunlight in the same way:
- Black and dark blue inks typically hold up best against UV exposure
- Bright colours like light blue, green, and yellow tend to fade fastest
- Red and orange pigments may fade or sometimes darken unpredictably
- White ink is particularly vulnerable, often yellowing when exposed to sunlight
Protecting New Tattoos (0-4 Weeks Old)
Fresh tattoos require special consideration as they’re essentially healing wounds:
Complete Sun Avoidance
New tattoos should not be exposed to direct sunlight at all. Full stop. UV rays can damage the healing skin, cause inflammation, and affect how the ink settles. Additionally, sunscreen shouldn’t be applied to a fresh tattoo until it’s fully healed, as the chemicals can irritate the skin and affect healing.
Healing First, Sun Later
For the first 2-4 weeks (depending on how quickly you heal):
- Keep your tattoo completely covered when outdoors
- Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area
- Schedule your tattoo sessions for autumn or winter if possible
- If you must be outside, seek shade consistently
Alternatives to Sunscreen
Since you can’t apply sunscreen to a healing tattoo, use:
- Protective clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)
- Umbrellas and shade structures
- Timing outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours
Protecting Healed Tattoos (1+ Months Old)
Once your tattoo has fully healed, maintaining its appearance becomes a long-term commitment:
Sunscreen: Your Tattoo’s Best Friend
For healed tattoos, sunscreen is essential:
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ product
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure
- Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating
- Consider products specifically formulated for tattoos with added moisturisers
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens
When choosing sun protection:
- Physical (mineral) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide create a barrier that reflects UV rays
- Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays before they can damage your skin
- Physical options are often recommended for tattoos as they start working immediately and are less likely to cause irritation
Clothing as Protection
Supplement sunscreen with:
- UPF-rated clothing (similar to SPF for fabric)
- Rash guards or swim shirts for water activities
- Wide-brimmed hats for tattoos on the neck, face, or scalp
- Compression sleeves for arm tattoos during outdoor sports
Special Considerations for Older Tattoos
Tattoos that have been with you for years require their own approach:
Reviving Existing Fading
If your tattoo has already experienced sun damage:
- Regular moisturising can help enhance appearance
- Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can make tattoos appear dull
- Touch-ups may be necessary for significant fading
- Consult your tattoo artist about colour enhancement options
Extra Care for Vintage Ink
Older tattoos (10+ years) often:
- Have pigments that have already broken down somewhat
- May be more susceptible to further fading
- Might have experienced ink migration making edges less defined
- Require more diligent sun protection to preserve what remains
Seasonal Tattoo Care
Adjust your tattoo protection strategy based on the calendar:
Summer Essentials
During peak sun months:
- Keep a travel-sized sunscreen with you for reapplication
- Consider temporary tattoo darkeners for special occasions
- Plan indoor alternatives during the most intense sun (10am-4pm)
- Be especially vigilant around water, sand, and snow which reflect and intensify UV rays
Year-Round Protection
Even in cooler months:
- Apply sunscreen to exposed tattoos daily
- Remember that UV rays penetrate clouds
- Be extra cautious at high altitudes where UV intensity increases
- Consider that car windows block UVB but not all UVA rays
Products Worth Investing In
Several products can help maintain your tattoo’s appearance:
Tattoo-Specific Sunscreens
Specialised options include:
- INK by Purpose Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
- H2Ocean Sea Life SPF 50
- CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30
- Electric Ink SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen
- Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen
Tattoo Brightening Products
To enhance appearance:
- After Inked Tattoo Moisturiser
- Hustle Butter Deluxe
- Billy Jealousy Tattoo Lotion
- Tattoo Goo Original Aftercare Lotion
- H2Ocean Aquatat
Emergency Situations: When You Can’t Avoid Sun
If unexpected sun exposure is unavoidable:
Quick Protection Methods
When caught without preparation:
- Use clothing as improvised coverage
- Seek shade immediately
- Apply any available sunscreen (better than nothing)
- Limit exposure time as much as possible
- Cool the area afterward to reduce inflammation
Post-Sun Exposure Care
If your tattoo has been overexposed:
- Apply aloe vera gel to soothe the skin
- Increase hydration both by drinking water and applying moisturiser
- Watch for signs of sunburn and treat accordingly
- Give your tattoo extra protection in the following days
Long-Term Preservation Strategies
Maintaining your tattoo’s appearance is a lifetime commitment:
Building Sun Protection Habits
Make these practices routine:
- Keep sunscreen next to your toothpaste as a reminder
- Set mobile phone reminders for reapplication when outdoors
- Incorporate tattoo-friendly moisturisers into your daily skincare
- Schedule annual photos of your tattoos to monitor fading
When to Consider Touch-Ups
Despite best efforts, you might need professional intervention:
- If colours have noticeably faded
- When lines have blurred beyond your preference
- If certain areas have faded unevenly
- Typically every 5-10 years depending on sun exposure, placement, and ink quality
Conclusion
Your tattoos are both personal expression and financial investment, deserving protection from the elements that might diminish their impact. By incorporating sun protection into your routine, you ensure that the art you chose to permanently display maintains its integrity and visual appeal for decades to come.
Remember that different tattoos and skin types may require personalised approaches. Consulting with professional tattoo artists about specific concerns is always recommended, particularly for vintage pieces or especially intricate designs. With proper care, your ink can remain vibrant and clear throughout the years, continuing to tell your story exactly as you intended.
