Did you know there are sunscreens for tattoos available? Yes! since tattoos can be a perfect way to express oneself, irrespective of age and gender, many lean towards engraving a tattoo to commemorate an occasion, person or anything important. Though it is all the rage to get a tattoo done, it is essential to learn everything about sunscreens for tattoos to take care of your skin while keeping it infection-free and moisturized.
Whether you are going for a summer getaway or it is the time right after getting a tattoo, it is essential to include sunscreen lotions or creams dedicated to your tattoos to protect them and your skin. In this article, we have curated a list of some of the best and skin-friendly sunscreens for tattoos. Read on!
Why Is Sunscreen Important For Your Tattoo?
Ultraviolet radiation UVA and UVB emitted from the sun can damage your tattoos differently than they do to your skin. Sunscreen maintains your tattoo’s appearance by preventing UVA and UVB from entering your skin.
New tattoos shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight until they are healed since they are essentially open wounds. The healing process of a new tattoo increases significantly if they get sunburned, which results in blistering or even itching. Unfortunately, there is also a chance of lasting damage from sunburns on old tattoos. Therefore, it is essential to include proper sunscreen in your daily routine to protect your tattoos.
Do You Need A Sunscreen Specifically Made For Tattoos?
According to tattoo experts, there is not much difference between the regular sunscreens and the world’s that are advertised and marketed as specifically formulated for tattoos. You will be safe in the sun if you wear sunscreen with SPF 30 to keep UVA and UVB rays away from your tattoo. Make sure that you choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF.
15 Popular Sunscreens For Tattoos:
Here, we have presented you with an array of sunscreen for tattoo options. Go through the list and choose the one that suits your needs and meets all your requirements.
1. BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick:
The Blue Lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen in the form of a stick protects your skin from sunburns, distorted tattoos or tans. In addition, this product has broad-spectrum SPF 30+ that protects your skin from harmful rays since it is infused with active zinc oxide. This tattoo guard sunscreen has no harsh chemicals and is suitable for tattooed and sensitive skin. The product is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and is reef-safe and lightweight.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Shea butter, Vitamin E, Sunflower seed oil.
- Spf Level: SPF 30.
- Sunscreen Type: Sunscreen stick.
- Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Recommended by dermatologists.
- Provides broad spectrum SPF.
- It is suitable for sensitive skin.
- Lightweight product.
- Water-resistant.
- Reel-safe.
- Free of chemicals.
Cons:
- It might leave a bit of white residue on your skin.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
2. Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 PA+++:
Supergoop glow screen SPF 40 PA +++ is a multitasking sunscreen that isn’t greasy or oily and protects your skin by filtering the blue light. In addition, this sunscreen gives your skin a healthy dose of pearlescence. It creates a dewy base layer for your look with the help of its hydrating formula. This glow screen helps boost moisture in the skin, keeping it nourished with the product’s hydration blend. The product supports long-lasting hydration because this sunscreen’s formulation has sea lavender, providing antioxidant protection.
Key Ingredients: Sea lavender, Hyaluronic acid.
Spf Level: SPF 40.
Sunscreen Type: Cream.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Adds instant glow.
- Provides instant hydration.
- It has blue-light protection.
- It doesn’t make my skin greasy.
- It adds a beautiful shine to your skin.
- It provides antioxidant protection.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
3. CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick for Kids & Adults:
If you are looking for a sunscreen stick suitable for kids and adults, then the CeraVe mineral can be a perfect choice. This mineral-based sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. In addition, this product leaves a clear finish. It spreads quickly since the product’s formulation has micro-fine zinc oxide and InVisibleZinc technology. The reapplication of this product is mess-free and easy while being travel-friendly. This sunscreen is water-resistant for about 40 minutes and is suitable for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, Zinc oxide.
Spf Level: SPF 50.
Sunscreen Type: Stick.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Non-comedogenic.
- Gentle formulation.
- Easy to use.
- Protects your skin from UV rays.
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Water-resistant.
- Oil-free.
Cons:
- Leaves white cast on the skin.
Ratings: 4.5/5.
4. YEALIR Natural Tattoo Sunscreen:
If you are looking for a natural tattoo sunscreen for your tattoos, then this product from YEALIR can work wonders. This product keeps your skin moisturized while protecting it from harmful UVA and UVB rays. In addition, the sunscreen doesn’t cause discomfort to your tattooed skin and is suitable for all skin types. The multifunctional tattoo care sunscreen protects your ink from drying and cracking by acting as a deep tissue moisturizer and a great tattoo balm.
Key Ingredients: Jojoba oil, Aloe butter, Cocoa seed oil, Rosemary.
Spf Level: SPF 30.
Sunscreen Type: Lotion.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Tested dermatologically.
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Natural ingredients.
- Moisturizes your tattoo.
- Protects your skin from UV rays.
- It doesn’t let your skin dry up.
- Tattoo fade protection.
- Lightweight texture.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.4/5.
5. Tattoo Med Sun Protection SPF 50:
The TaattooMed sun protection SPF 50 is one of the best sunscreens that protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sun protection is a must even in winter, especially in the sin areas where you have tattoos. So whether you are going out to spend a fun day on the beach or in the outdoor pool, apply sunscreen on your body and tattoos. Compared to other creams, this product doesn’t leave any sticky residue.
Key Ingredients: Provitamin B5.
Spf Level: SPF 50.
Sunscreen Type: Cream.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Protects you from UVA/UVB rays.
- Made with high-quality ingredients.
- Vegan.
- Approved dermatologically.
- Protects against environmental aggressors.
- Tattoo colour protection filter.
Cons:
- It might give you white residue.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
[See More: Nivea Sunscreen Lotions]
6. Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick:
Use the Australian Gold SPF 50 tattoo stick to protect all the beautiful artwork incorporates onto your body as tattoos. In addition, it prevents the discolouration of your tattoo while brightening the tattoo colours by providing intense moisture. This product helps your skin achieve gorgeous golden colour with the help of olive fruit, tea tree and natural sunflower oils. At the same time, vitamin E protects your skin from free radicals. Since this sunscreen stick is pocket-sized, it is travel-friendly.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Green tea extracts, Aloe Vera, sunflower seed extracts and Australian tea tree oil.
Spf Level: SPF 50.
Sunscreen Type: Stick.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Prevents ink discolouration.
- Easy to use.
- It keeps your skin moisturized.
- Brightens your tattoo.
- Protects your tattoos.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.5/5
7. Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen:
The Mad Rabbit defends tattoo sunscreen as a perfect choice when you want to protect your tattoos from harmful UV rays, whether you are tattooed or not. This 100% mineral sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and nourishes and protects them from environmental stressors. Using this sunscreen also protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Carrot extracts, Rosehip oil, Vitamin C.
Spf Level: SPF 30.
Sunscreen Type: Lotion.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- It protects your skin.
- It is suitable for skin types.
- It has antioxidants.
- It helps nourish your skin.
- It protects your skin from UV rays.
- It helps reverse the signs of skin damage.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.5/5.
8. CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen & Ink Fade Shield Stick:
Protect your tattoo from fading in the sun with the help of the CannaSmack ink guard SPF 30 tattoo sunscreen and ink fade shield stick. This product has a 100% non-comedogenic, water-resistant and UVB hypoallergenic formula which keeps your tattoo from fading in the sun. In addition, it provides much-needed hydration and nourishment to your skin since the formulation of this sunscreen has hemp seed oil and vitamins A, B, D and E.
Key Ingredients: Premium hemp seed oil.
- Spf Level: SPF 30.
- Sunscreen Type: Stick.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic.
- It keeps your skin hydrated.
- Paraben and gluten-free.
- Easy to use.
- Nourishes your skin.
- It keeps your skin hydrated.
- Water-resistant.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
9. Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick:
If you are looking for a tattoo-safe sunscreen stick, then the Devoted creations tattoo fade protection stick is a perfect choice. This non-greasy product is formulated with shea butter and is water-resistant. It also protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with the help of SPF 50+. Using this stick while going out will keep your tattoo fresh and prevents them from fading.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter.
Spf Level: SPF 50+.
Sunscreen Type: Stick.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Provides protection from UVA and UVB rays.
- Non-greasy product.
- Water-resistant.
- It keeps your tattoo from fading.
- Easy to use.
- Travel-friendly.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
10. Coppertone Limited Edition ULTRA GUARD SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion:
The Coppertone limited edition Ultra guard SPF 70 sunscreen lotion is the best sunscreen for new tattoos. The broad-spectrum formula of this product protects your skin while in the sun. In addition, this sunscreen doesn’t feel greasy on your skin while protecting it from UVA and UVB rays while being water-resistant for 80 minutes. The vitamin E and moisturizers in the product nourish and hydrate your skin thoroughly.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octocrylene, Octisalate, Oxybenzone.
- Spf Level: SPF 70.
- Sunscreen Type: Lotion.
- Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- It keeps your skin hydrated.
- It moisturizes your skin.
- UVA/UVB protection.
- Water-resistant.
- It doesn’t feel greasy.
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Reapplication is required every two hours.
Ratings: 4.7/5.
[See More: Best Aroma Magic Sunscreens]
11. INK-EEZE Tattoo Sunscreen Stick SPF 50:
If you are looking for a travel-friendly sunscreen stick for your tattoo, then the INK-EEZE tattoo sunscreen stick with an SPF of 50 can be an ideal choice. Since it comes in a small package size, it meets the TSA carry-on regulations making it travel-friendly. It also comes with an ink-barrier technology which helps protect your skin during the day. In addition, your tattoo looks pristine with the use of this sunscreen stick regularly.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Glycerine, Vitamin E.
- Spf Level: SPF 50.
- Sunscreen Type: Stick.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
Pros:
- Ozone-friendly.
- It has ink barrier technology.
- Reef friendly.
- Planet-friendly.
- Travel-ready.
- Protects your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
12. BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen:
The Blue Lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen is a perfect option if you want a mineral-based product to protect your skin and tattoos. In addition, you can stay protected longer while swimming, during a run or whichever activity you like because of its 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance. This sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays since the mineral formula contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide.
Spf Level: SPF 50.
Sunscreen Type: Mineral-based.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Mineral-based product.
- Tested by dermatologists.
- Protects your skin from harmful sun rays.
- Water-resistant.
- Paraben and fragrance-free.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.7/5.
13. Banana Boat Sport Ultra, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray:
If you have an active lifestyle, then the Banana Boat sport ultra broad spectrum spray can be an ideal choice. This non-greasy sunscreen spray absorbs into your skin quickly, providing robust protection for your tattoos. In addition, these clear sprays are lightweight and designed especially for active and sports enthusiasts who remain in the sun for a long time. It also protects you from harmful UVA and UVB rays, whether in the sun, pool water, wind, sand, or extreme heat.
Key Ingredients: Octisalate, Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Homosalate, Oxybenzone.
Spf Level: SPF 100.
Sunscreen Type: Spray.
Cruelty-free: No.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic.
- Water-resistant.
- Protects from UVA/UVB rays.
- Reef-friendly.
- Lightweight and breathable formula.
- Clinically proven.
Cons:
- Reapplication is necessary.
Ratings: 4.7/5.
14. Dermatone Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50:
Dermotone mineral sunscreen stick is one of the best sunscreens for tattoos with an SPF. In addition, it safeguards your skin since the product’s formulation has a unique zinc formula. This product is ideal for your nose, face, neck and shoulders because of its oval design. So whether you are going for sports like skiing, golf, fishing or climbing, this non-greasy sunscreen can be helpful not only on your face but also on your body.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide.
- Spf Level: SPF 50.
- Sunscreen Type: Stick.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
Pros:
- It keeps your skin moisturized.
- Reef safe.
- Provides sun protection.
- Non-greasy product.
- Fragrance and paraben-free.
- Provides long-lasting protection.
- Tested in the harshest environments.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.5/5.
15. INK-EEZE Tattoo Sunscreen Spray SPF 50:
If you are looking for a good sunscreen for tattoos in the form of a spray, then the product from INK-EEZE can be a perfect choice. This product is used primarily for tattoo protection during the day since it has ink barrier technology. In addition, it remains water-resistant for 80 minutes and is made of 100 recyclable sugarcane resin tubes. The product is made with all-natural ozone, Reef and vegan-friendly ingredients.
Key Ingredients: Coconut.
- Spf Level: SPF 50.
- Sunscreen Type: Spray.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
Pros:
- Blocks UVA/UVB rays.
- Dries clear.
- Ozone-reef friendly.
- Vegan.
- All natural ingredients.
- It makes your tattoo look pristine.
Cons:
- None.
Ratings: 4.6/5.
How To Choose The Best Sunscreen For Tattoos:
Here are a few things you need to keep in mind when choosing a sunscreen for tattoos that help prevent the fading of tattoos and protect your skin. They are:
1. Sun protection:
Applying appropriate sunscreen becomes essential when you spend any time in the sun. Ideally, choose a product that offers broad-spectrum sun protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays because that is the level of sun protection required when you have a tattoo. In addition, your sunscreen should be at least SPF 30, a recommended range.
2. Ingredients:
If you want to know more about the product you are picking, take a quick look at the ingredients list at the back of the package. If you are environmentally conscious, choose a product that doesn’t have harmful ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Instead, choose a sunscreen made with non-nano zinc oxide and enriched with skin-loving ingredients like Shea butter, aloe Vera and coconut oil that nourishes while protecting your tattoo.
3. Texture:
The product texture also plays an important role. When picking a suitable sunscreen for a tattoo, you can consider a stick sunscreen which you can quickly roll on before you go out in the sun if you have a small and easily accessible tattoo. A spray sunscreen might be more appropriate if you have star tattoos in hard-to-reach areas like the back. Choose a thick cream sunscreen that protects your skin if you want a sunscreen that doubles up as a moisturizer.
Tattoos play an important role when you want to reveal your love for art passion or when you want to convey your life stories. However, suppose you don’t have a proper care routine for your tattoos, especially when you go out in the sun. In that case, chances are these tattoos might fade with time, and the ultimate result might be very unattractive. The sunscreens for tattoos we have mentioned in this article will prevent UV rays from penetrating new skin and protect your tattoos from fading away. Go through the list of products and choose the one that suits your skin type and needs. Don’t forget to let us know if you found the article helpful!
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
Q1. How Often Should You Apply Sunscreen To Your Tattoo?
Ans: Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before you go outside, especially if you plan on being in the sun. Then, make sure you re-apply the sunscreen at least every 2 hours. If you are swimming or sweating heavily, apply sunscreen more often.
Q2. How To Treat A Sunburned Tattoo?
Ans: Follow the steps if your tattoo gets burnt.
- Use a cool compress on the burnt area for a soothing feel.
- Soothe the burnt area by applying a hypoallergenic moisturizer.
- Monitor your sunburnt skin and ensure that you drink lots of fluids.
- If you notice swelling around the tattoo, feel waves of heat and cold, or have a fever, get immediate medical attention because these can be a sign of infection.
- You can finally determine if your tattoo needs a touch-up from your tattoo artist once your tattoo has completely healed from the sunburn.
Q3. What Other Tips Can You Follow To Protect Your Tattoo From Harmful Sun Rays?
Ans: If you want your tattoo to look and feel at its best, you will have to follow these lifestyle tips:
- Avoid sun lamps and tanning beds.
- Limit your time going out in the sun.
- Wear lightweight, loose, and comfortable clothing, especially outdoors, over tattoos.
