Can I tan over my tattoo?

Author: Dr. Gia Jaskolski  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

In fact, you shouldn't tan after your tattoo until it has fully healed past the scabbing phase. The recommendation of how long this time period is differs, depending on the tattoo studio's advice, with the most common recommendations being anywhere from 8 weeks to 3 months.

How long after a tattoo can you tan?

You need to wait at least 6--8 weeks before you actively sunbathe and even longer to go into a tanning bed, especially if you have light colors on the tattoo. Conversely you can use a tattoo safe tanning lotion that will darken your skin without having harmful UV rays pierce your tattoo and break down the ink.

Can you put tan over a new tattoo?

Can you self-tan immediately after getting a tattoo? No, you can't tan your skin anymore once you're a tattooed person. Avoid tanning if youre tattooed, or prepare for blurry faded ink & pay for touchups.

How to tan without ruining a tattoo?

Consider Alternative: Spray Tanning and Lotions

If you love your tattoos and want to avoid the risks that come with tanning beds, spray tanning and self-tanning lotions are fantastic alternatives. These options give you the bronzed glow you're after without exposing your ink to UV rays.

Does self tanner mess up tattoos?

Nope. Sunless tanners work by dyeing your skin; the dye from a sunless tanning lotion will not 'overtake' or 'change' the look of a colour or black line tattoo.

Long-Term Tattoo Care | Carlos Costa

Does tanning mess up tattoos?

UV light can cause tattoos to fade over time, meaning that those looking to gain a golden glow either in the sun or with a sunbed could be risking their works of art without proper care. With this in mind, check out some of our top tips for how best to care for your tattoos whilst tanning!

Can you put fake tan over temporary tattoos?

We don't recommend applying your custom temporary tattoo directly before or after fake tanning, as the active ingredients in tanning solutions may react with your skin.

How do I protect my tattoo when tanning?

Apply sunscreen

Visiting a tanning bed will fix your paleness, but it may also cause your healed tattoo to fade. Taking a cotton swab and applying sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, on the tattoo can help prevent it from fading. You can also use indoor tanning lotions that offer tattoo protection.

Do tattoos get darker when you tan?

The answer is no! It can make the ink appear darker, but it won't cover the tattoo- tans don't work like makeup.

When can I go in the sun after a tattoo?

It's recommended that tattoos remain out of direct sunlight for at least the first month, but that doesn't mean you're in the clear once that time is up. Sun exposure can still cause colors to fade, which is why it's always best to protect your tattoo from sun exposure whenever possible.

Can I put fake tan on a week old tattoo on Reddit?

At MINIMUM two weeks but three is ideal. If it's still peely I would not reccomend tanning.

How long after a tattoo can I shave?

Eaves recommends allowing your new tattoo anywhere between two weeks to a month to fully heal before shaving (you can find his tattoo aftercare tips here) — this means no scabbing, peeling or shininess on or around the site of the tattoo. Once your tattoo is fully healed, however, shave as your heart desires.

What tanning bed lotion protects tattoos?

  • Products highlighted as 'Overall Pick' are: ...
  • Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz. ...
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  • More like this.

Which health risks may result from tattoos?

Skin infections.

A skin infection is possible after getting a tattoo. An infection might be due to contaminated ink or equipment that isn't sterilized correctly. Getting a tattoo at a studio that doesn't follow good safety steps also can raise your risk of a skin infection.

Can I go to the beach after getting a tattoo?

Ocean and saltwater: The salt and minerals can irritate healing skin that hasn't fully settled. Saltwater requires a minimum 3–4 week wait. Even after healing, limit your first exposure to 15 minutes. Hot tubs: A hot tub session introduces heat and bacterial infection risks.

How do you tan if you have tattoos?

If you want to tan, consider indirect sun exposure or tanning in the shade. This reduces the intensity of UV rays hitting your skin, offering some protection to your tattoos. Remember that even in the shade, UV rays can still cause damage, so sunscreen is still necessary.

Can I put sunscreen on a 2 week old tattoo?

Until your tattoo is fully healed, you cannot apply any type of sunscreen, and it's really best to just avoid exposing the area to any direct sunlight whatsoever. If you plan to be outside in the sun with a new tattoo, then your best and safest protection is to keep the area covered with loose clothing.

When can I self tan after a tattoo?

Avoid fake tanning over healing tattoos. Allow 2/3 weeks for tattoo to heal before applying any fake tan or having a spray tan. The chemicals can cause reactions to the skin and healing tattoo, leading to touch ups being needed or worse case scenario infection in the tattoo.

How to cover tattoos in the sun?

Tattoos on the arms, upper torso, and areas that receive direct sun exposure tend to fade the fastest over time. Keeping your sunscreen handy is a lifesaver, but if you forget from time to time, opt for the shade whenever possible and cover your ink with a towel or clothing if you need to.

How long does it take for a tattoo to fully heal?

Tattoos typically take two to four weeks to heal on the surface, but it can take three to six months to fully heal. The tattoo healing process typically involves a week of redness and oozing, followed by two to three weeks of itchiness and peeling. After about a month, the skin still internally heals.

How can I make my temporary tattoo look more realistic?

How to Make Temporary Tattoos Look Real
  1. Shave the Area Before Applying the Tattoo.
  2. Apply Baby Powder.
  3. Use a Translucent Powder.
  4. Add Finishing Spray or Hair Spray.
  5. Rub on Tea Gel or Essential Oils.
  6. Momentary Ink Temporary Tattoos.

Can you fake tan over tattoo removal?

Avoid using fake tanning products at least two weeks before and after your laser tattoo removal.

How do you seal a temporary tattoo?

Seal with Clear Nail Polish

Clear nail polish can act as a durable sealant for your temporary tattoo. Apply a thin layer over the tattoo, and let it dry completely. This method is particularly useful for smaller tattoos and those in areas that are less prone to flexing and bending.

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