Tattoos and Sun Exposure: The Basics of Protecting Your Ink

If you have tattoos, then you know the importance of protecting them from the sun. Sun exposure can fade and damage your tattoos, making them look dull and aged. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of protecting your tattoos from the sun. We will cover how to choose the best protection for your tattoos against sun exposure to help keep them looking their best for years to come. 

Tattoos and sun exposure are not a good mix. Even if you haven't noticed any fading after spending time in the sun before, your skin may still be damaged. The effects might not be evident immediately; instead, they will usually become visible over the course of a few years.

You can't apply sun cream to a new tattoo until it's fully healed. Instead, to protect it from direct sunlight, cover your tattoo with loose-fitting clothing. If you can avoid it, keep your new tattoo out of the sunlight for the first three to four weeks and always listen to your tattoo artist's aftercare advice. Remember, new tattoos are open wounds.

For new tattoos, why not check out the newest Sun Block Tattoo Film from Dermalize? These pre-cut sheets offer the same benefits as Dermalize's original Protective Tattoo Film, however, thanks to the black coating, your new tattoos will also be protected from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

When it comes to sun protection for healed tattoos, the most important thing to remember is to use sun cream with a high SPF. This will help to protect your tattoo from the sun's harmful UV rays. You should apply sun cream to your tattoo whenever you will be spending time outdoors, and be sure to reapply it often. It is best to opt for a sun cream with an SPF of 30 or higher when covering your tattoos. If you have sensitive skin and burn easily, the best SPF for tattoos is 50 or above to ensure you have the best possible protection. Sun creams that are specifically formulated for tattoos are recommended, as many other options contain fragrances or other harmful chemicals.

The Tattoo Goo 4 in 1 Aftercare Kit contains all the products you may need to care for both new and old tattoos. From Tattoo Goo's original balm to Tattoo Goo Renew—a tattoo SPF 30 lotion that revives the colours of existing tattoos and keeps new tattoos looking vibrant, all while offering protection from the sun. 

When your tattoo gets sunburnt the skin will typically start peeling, resulting in quicker ink pigment breakdown. Plus, extreme sun exposure can even cause colour changes, so it is best to make sure you are properly protecting your tattoo, especially during the summer months. It is therefore recommended to limit your amount of time in the sun and to especially avoid the peak hours of the day (10am - 4pm), when the sun is at its strongest. Tanning beds should also be avoided as these expose the user to highly concentrated UV rays, which will damage your tattoos. 

Tattoos are a great way to show off your personality, but it's important to remember to protect them from the sun. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help keep your tattoos looking their best for years to come.