You have just gotten a beautiful new tattoo, or you are considering getting one. But then summer comes, and you wonder: is it actually okay to be in the sun with a tattoo? The short answer: yes, but there are important things you need to watch out for. In this article, we explain exactly how sunlight affects your tattoo and how to protect your tattoo optimally.
Fresh tattoo and sunlight: why you need to be careful
A fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound in your skin. During tattooing, pigments are applied into the skin layer with needles, which damages your skin and needs to heal. This healing process takes on average 2 to 4 weeks, and during this period your tattoo is extra vulnerable.
Direct sunlight on a fresh tattoo can lead to:
- Delayed healing due to skin drying out
- Increased risk of infections
- Discoloration or fading of the ink
- Blistering and painful burns
- Scarring that affects the final result
Experts recommend completely avoiding direct sunlight for the first 2 to 4 weeks. That means: covering your tattoo with clothing or staying out of the sun during the healing process.
Healed tattoo and sun: ongoing protection needed
Even when your tattoo is fully healed, sun protection remains important. UV radiation is the biggest enemy of a beautiful, bright-lasting tattoo. Sunlight slowly breaks down the pigments in your skin, causing your tattoo to fade and lose its sharpness.
Why do tattoos fade in the sun?
UV radiation penetrates the skin layer where the tattoo ink is located. This radiation breaks the ink particles into smaller pieces, which are then removed by your body. The result? A tattoo that becomes less vibrant year after year.
Colors most sensitive to sunlight:
- Yellow and light green shades fade the fastest
- Red and pink colors are also very sensitive
- Black and dark blue are the most colorfast
Practical tips for tattoos in the sun
Want to enjoy the outdoors without damaging your tattoo? Follow these tips:
Always use sunscreen
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your tattoo, preferably SPF 50. Apply the cream generously 15 minutes before exposure and reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you swim or sweat. Choose a sunscreen without perfume or alcohol, as these ingredients can irritate your skin.
Wear protective clothing
Light, airy clothing with long sleeves or pants effectively protects your tattoo from the sun. There are even special garments with built-in UV protection available. This is especially useful for large tattoos on arms or legs.
Avoid the midday sun
Between 12:00 and 15:00 the sun is strongest. Try to stay out of direct sunlight during this period, especially if you have a fresh or relatively new tattoo. Seek shade or stay indoors during these hours.
Want to try first before heading into summer?
Still unsure if a tattoo is really for you? Or want to see how a certain design looks in summer without worrying about sun protection during healing? Then a temporary tattoo is the perfect solution. With a fake tattoo from tatt4aweek.nl you can experiment carefree with different designs and placements.
Our temporary tattoos are waterproof and last up to 2 weeks, so you can go to the beach or pool without worrying about the healing process. They are dermatologically tested and made from natural ingredients, making them safe for every skin type. This way you can try out how a tattoo suits you in different situations, including summer conditions.
Frequently asked questions about tattoos and sun
How long should I stay out of the sun after getting a new tattoo?
You should avoid direct sunlight on a fresh tattoo for at least 2 to 4 weeks. Some tattoo artists even advise 6 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of your tattoo. Cover your tattoo well with clothing when going outside.
Can I go to the beach with an old tattoo?
Yes, definitely. Just always make sure to use good sun protection with a high SPF. Also, salt seawater can dry out your skin, so rinse your tattoo with clean water afterwards and moisturize the skin well with a hydrating cream.
Does after sun help protect my tattoo?
After sun is good for hydrating your skin after sun exposure, but it does not protect against UV radiation. Always use sunscreen first before going into the sun. After sun can then be used to care for and cool your skin.
Try first with a temporary tattoo
Before getting a permanent tattoo that you have to care for for years, it’s wise to experiment first. With a temporary tattoo you can discover how you handle having a tattoo in different seasons. You learn whether you like always having a visible tattoo, whether you keep up with the care (like applying sunscreen), and whether the chosen spot and design really suit you.
Our stick-on tattoos are easy to apply and give you all the freedom to experiment without regret. They are perfect for festivals, vacations, or just to try out at home. This way you make a well-considered choice when you decide to get a permanent tattoo.
Ready to experiment without worries?
Now that you know how important sun protection is for tattoos, you also understand that choosing the right tattoo is an important decision. Why not try first how a tattoo suits you, without the worries about healing and sun protection? Check out our extensive collection of temporary tattoos and discover which style and placement suit you best. Tattoo without regrets – try it first with tatt4aweek.nl!