Sunblock On A New Tattoo: The Dos and Donts

Sunblock On a New Tattoo: The Dos and Donts

Most of us either have a tattoo or have at one point thought of getting one. Tattoos are a beautiful form of art expression on your body, and when done right, they can look amazing. The quality of your tattoo is highly dependent on the artist who does it. A great artist will make you a high-quality and long-lasting tattoo.

However, as much as an artist may be great at what they do, how long your tattoo lasts and looks as good as new purely depends on how well you protect it. There are a number of things that may cause tattoo fading, and sun exposure is one of them.

Risks of Tattoo Sun Exposure

When you have a tattoo, it’s natural to want to show it off, but it’s important to protect it in the process. The effects of sun exposure shouldn’t be ignored, and how you shield your tattoo from the sun can go a long way in keeping it looking bright and fresh.

When it comes to tattoos and sun protection, more is better. The sun’s powerful UV rays can burn skin and affect new and healed tattoos regardless of the season.

1. Disrupted Healing Process

Sun exposure can prolong the healing process of your tattoo. The sun’s rays can also directly affect the ink as the skin heals, causing the lines to blur or the tattoo to look blotchy or distorted. The definition of your tattoo may not be affected right away, but the damage can add up over time.

2. Blistering in Extreme Cases

If you venture out in the sun immediately after getting your tattoo or sit in the strong midday sun for prolonged periods, you may experience blistering. This is painful and can also affect the look of your tattoo, so avoiding early or direct sun exposure is key.

3. Tattoo Fading

Tattoos often fade as an effect of UV rays from the sun. Most people with tattoos will testify to feeling a tingly uncomfortable sensation when they leave their tattoo directly facing the sun when fresh. This is mainly because the tattoo is a raw sensitive wound when new, and UV light does not favor the tattoo or its healing process. Though not recommended for the first few days after getting the tattoo, the only way to protect and maintain the quality of your tattoo over a long time is the use of sunscreen.

Why Sunscreen Application is Important

Sunscreen works to prevent UV rays from burning your skin, allowing your skin to stay safe at all times. Sunscreen also comes in handy if you want to tan in the sun. Most people who go out in the sun experience tattoo fading after some time.

Sunscreen controls these effects by preventing UV rays from affecting the tattoo. This protection is especially important when swimming, since UV exposure may be higher.

Can You Put Sunscreen on a Fresh Tattoo?

For the first couple of days, it’s best not to expose your tattoo to the sun — but at the same time, avoid applying sunblock. If you need to be outside in the sunlight, cover the area with loose clothing. Applying sunscreen on a fresh tattoo could cause irritation, so it’s best to avoid it. After 2-3 days, you can use high-quality sun protection when showing off your new ink outside.

Wondering what sunscreen is best for a new tattoo? Opt for one with organic ingredients like H2Ocean Surfer’s Choice SPF 50 Sunscreen.

H2Ocean’s Surfer’s Choice Sunscreen

H2Ocean’s Surfer’s Choice SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is one of the highest-quality sunscreens available on the market today. It’s made with natural ingredients, ensuring the protection and nourishment of your skin and that of your environment. The sunscreen is suitably strong at 50 SPF, and it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for swimming.

The product boasts several beneficial properties, including sweat resistance, an oil- and scent-free formula and a cooling effect on your skin. You can start using the sunscreen on your new tattoo after two days without any negative effects. Using the sunscreen earlier than that may alter your tattoo’s healing process.

Explore Our Tattoo Aftercare Range

A tattoo is a work of art that should be treated with care. Lack of proper maintenance may not show its effects immediately, but rest assured they will present themselves in a few years. To properly protect your tattoo, use H2Ocean’s Surfer’s Choice SPF 50 to assure the health of your tattoo and skin. A tattoo will make you look a whole lot more awesome if it stays looking new.

H2Ocean provides premium tattoo aftercare products using natural ingredients. Explore our aftercare range to harness the healing powers of Red Sea Salt.