The Best Sunscreen For Tattoos

Sunscreen Is Essential for Tattoos Year-Round

As summer winds down and less time is spent outdoors, you may be thinking it’s time to start stowing away the sunscreen for next summer. However, this is not always the wisest idea, especially if you have tattoos. There are a few great reasons why you should probably be wearing some form of sunscreen or sun protection daily, even when it’s cloudy, especially if you have tattoos.

How the Sun Damages Tattoos?

The sun’s ultraviolet rays offer a couple of ways to ruin your tattoo. Tattoo ink pigments are broken down by UV rays which can cause premature or expedited fading than if protected with sunscreen. A sunburn will also pull out ink when your skin peels, causing fading. Blurring is also a common occurrence with unprotected sun exposure for an extended time. You may already be aware of the why using sunscreen is important for your tattoo.

Unexpected Ways the Sun Reaches You

There are sneaky ways that the sun’s rays can reach you without your even thinking about it. Your daily commute can be a culprit, with the sun being able to penetrate through the windows. Certain medications can also make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Acne, cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory medications are common sources, as well as over the counter products including benzoyl peroxide and retinol.

Learn more about heat-related dangers and the role of sunscreen in Heat Stroke, Heat Waves, and Heat Exhaustion: Sunscreen for Heat Safety.

The Sun’s Impact Regardless of Weather

Regardless of where you live, or what the average weather may be, the sun can still find a way to shine its ultraviolet rays down. Most people know the effects of prolonged, unprotected exposure to UV rays which can cause wrinkling, discoloration and skin cancer but applying even a lower or lighter UV protection can still make a difference.

• On cloudy or overcast days, the sun’s rays can pass through the clouds up to 80%.
• The snow can also reflect up to 80% of UV rays in the winter months as well.

If not for the protection of your skin, protecting your tattoos from the sun can help to preserve the color and design for many more years if you apply reef safe sunscreen if you plan to expose tattooed areas to sunlight.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Tattoo Protection

Not all sunscreens are created equal though. H2Ocean Surfers Choice SPF 50 spray is safe for all skin types.

• Anti-aging, non-scented, and dries in 30 seconds with no oily residue.
• Water-resistant and provides over 80 minutes of total block from harmful UV rays.
• Contains Tattoo Protek to shield your ink from damaging UV rays.
• Loaded with Aloe Vera for natural hydration.
• Safe for children and features a 360-degree sprayer for easy use.