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If you’ve recently gotten a tattoo, you might be wondering, ‘Can you put sunscreen on a fresh tattoo?’
After all, protecting your skin from the sun is important, and tattoos are no exception. However, when it comes to new tattoos, proper aftercare is important so that the ink heals correctly. Knowing when and how to introduce sunscreen into your routine can make all the difference.
Fresh tattoos require extra care because the skin is still healing, making it more sensitive to outside elements like the sun, water and even certain skincare or sunscreen products. Applying Zinc sunscreen too early might seem like a good idea, for example, but it might cause undesired complications.
You can help protect your tattoo and skin by understanding why you should wait before using sunscreen right away. This guide will walk you through what to know about sun protection and tattoos, so you can enjoy your new ink without worry.
When you get a fresh tattoo, your skin is in a delicate state, similar to having an open wound. Applying natural sunscreen may seem reasonable, but doing so while the tattoo is still fresh could introduce chemicals that might irritate the area and increase the risk of infection.
Sunscreen can also affect the natural healing process since fresh tattoos need to ‘breathe’ to heal properly. If sunscreen is applied too soon, you may notice inflammation or a burning sensation around the tattooed area. This can make the healing process uncomfortable and frustrating.
Additionally, using sunscreen before your skin is fully healed can cause heavy scabbing, which can delay healing.
When scabs are too thick, they can peel or crack prematurely, potentially causing patchy or incomplete healing. Rather than using sunscreen immediately after getting tattooed, it’s ideal to use alternative protection methods until it’s healed, such as covering your tattoo with loose clothing, when possible.
Caring for your fresh tattoo during the healing phase is important to keep it looking vivid and to avoid complications.
Gently wash the area with mild or unscented soap and lukewarm water to remove bacteria or debris without irritating the skin.
Avoid scrubbing or using harsh products, as the area is still very sensitive.
After cleaning, apply a thin layer of a dermatologist-approved ointment to help the skin heal.
Opt for quick showers and pat the area dry with a clean towel during the healing period.
It’s equally important to keep your tattoo away from excessive moisture. Keeping the tattoo clean and dry will help ensure a smooth healing process, so steer clear of pools, hot tubs and long baths while it heals. Water can soften the scabs and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
To properly use sunscreen after getting a tattoo, you will need to be patient. Your tattoo will go through different stages of healing, and it’s important to let your skin fully recover before applying any sun protection products, even if it’s a reef safe sunscreen Australia surfers might readily recommend.
Typically, the initial healing phase lasts about two to three weeks, during which scabs form and fall off naturally. During this time, the skin will be vulnerable and open to infection or irritation. You will need to follow aftercare instructions for another four to six weeks to complete the healing process.
You’ll know your tattoo is ready for sunscreen when the skin has fully closed and no longer shows signs of peeling or scabbing. At this point, the tattooed area should feel comfortable without any tenderness, redness or irritation.
Checking for these signs ensures your skin is ready to handle sunscreen without risking discomfort or complications. It’s always a good idea to listen to your body; if something feels off, give it more time to heal.
Once your tattoo has fully healed, it’s safe to use sunscreen to protect it from harmful UV rays. Sun exposure can cause tattoos to fade or lose their vibrancy over time, so proper sun care is essential for preserving your ink.
If you’re fond of getting new tattoos from time to time, make sunscreen application a habit whenever your ink is exposed to sunlight. Little Urchin provides more than ample sun protection that’s gentle on your skin. Using our natural zinc sunscreens goes a long way to helping keep your tattoos looking bold and beautiful for years to come.
Disclaimer: Little Urchin’s ingredients are sourced from nature and we apply a process to transform them into our final product.
Choosing the right sunscreen for your healed tattoo is essential to keep your ink looking vibrant and your skin protected. Look for sunscreens labelled as reef-safe, as these sunscreens provide excellent coverage without harmful chemicals.
A mineral sunscreen with non-nano zinc oxide is great for guarding against both UVA and UVB rays, which can fade your tattoo over time. Additionally, opting for a fragrance-free formula helps reduce the chances of irritation, especially on sensitive areas of your skin.
You can benefit your skin and the planet by using eco-conscious sunscreen as well. Sunscreen brands like Little Urchin not only hydrate your skin – which helps your tattoo retain its bold, fresh look – but also do our part in keeping Mother Earth happy. That’s because our reef-safe sunscreens are designed to minimise environmental impact while offering effective sun protection.
For outdoor enthusiasts, long-lasting sunscreen formulas are designed to provide extended protection during activities like swimming, hiking, or lounging on the beach. Not only do they protect your tattoo from harmful rays, but they also ensure your skin stays moisturised during your outdoor activities. With the right sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun while keeping your tattoo and skin healthy.
Fresh tattoos need special care to ensure proper healing and maintain their appearance. Once fully healed, applying a reef-safe sunscreen helps protect tattoos from UV rays and keeps them looking bold and beautiful for years to come.
Here are the key points to keep in mind from the article:
Sunscreen should not be applied to fresh tattoos, as it can cause irritation and delay healing.
Fresh tattoos require gentle cleaning with mild soap and proper moisturization to promote healing.
Avoid exposing fresh tattoos to excessive moisture or direct sunlight during the healing phase.
Sunscreen can be applied once the tattoo is fully healed, ideally with no peeling, scabbing or tenderness present around the tattoo.
Choose reef-safe, fragrance-free sunscreens to protect healed tattoos without irritation.
Using sunscreen regularly can help prevent fading and keep tattoos looking vibrant over time.
Little Urchin’s natural skin-care products are free of toxins, safe for the planet and made with love to protect your skin and your family. Our ingredients are sourced from nature, whether in their natural form or through processes that retain their naturally helpful properties.
