Can you put fake tan on a tattoo after 2 weeks?

Author: Ms. Mazie Bergnaum  |  Last update: Saturday, October 25, 2025

How long after getting a tattoo should you wait before applying fake tan? We recommend waiting at least two weeks, and a month if you can. That way you'll avoid the risk of developing any infections that may come.

Can you fake tan over a 2 week old tattoo?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 2 to 3 weeks after getting a tattoo before applying fake tan. This allows your tattoo to heal properly and reduces the risk of irritation or fading of the ink. Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist, as individual healing times can vary.

How soon can I tan after a tattoo?

Most tattoo artists recommend avoiding direct sunlight for at least two weeks after getting a tattoo. If you want to tan and have a new tattoo, it's best to keep the area covered with clothing or a protective sunscreen (once it's healed sufficiently) to prevent damage.

Can fake tan affect tattoos?

Theoretically no. Fake tanner stains the top layer of dead skin cells, it doesn't affect the deeper layers where the ink is.

What to do after 2 weeks of a new tattoo?

Tattoo Care After 2 Weeks (Days 15 to 30):

If your tattoo looks dry and dull, continue to moisturize to rehydrate the skin. It may take another month or two for the lower layers of skin to completely heal, at which point the tattoo should look as bright and vivid as expected, and as the artist intended.

Tips for Tanning with Tattoos

Is it normal for a tattoo to fade after 2 weeks?

Sometime between two to four weeks after getting a new tattoo – when your tattoo scabs and/or peels - your new ink may appear more faded and duller than expected. Don't worry, this is completely natural.

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.

Do tattoos darken when you tan?

The only risk with spray tanning and tattoos is that the tan can darken light-colored or delicate tattoos. However, if you don't like how it looks, you can always wipe it off after your spray tanning session!

Does UV light affect tattoos?

"Sunburns and chronic UV exposure can damage the appearance of tattoos over time and lead to fading, wrinkles, and dullness/dryness." Nussbaum also says it's safe to put sunscreen on a healed tattoo, but fresh ink will need to heal first (instead, cover it with a bandage or loose clothing).

When can I fake tan after tattoo removal?

If you NEED to self-tan, keep in mind you'll need to wait at least two weeks post laser tattoo removal to apply a self-tan, and you'll need to stay away from self-tanner for 4-6 weeks before your next session.

How long does it take for a tattoo to heal before sun?

New tattoos fade very quickly when exposed to sunlight. In addition, if your tattoo has not completely healed yet, exposing the area to sunlight could result in blistering. In general, you should keep a new tattoo completely protected from the sun for at least three to four weeks.

Can I tan 2 weeks after getting a tattoo?

New tattoos are essentially open wounds, so blasting them with UV light will not only fade the ink prematurely but could also cause scabbing, irritation, or even infections. It's best to wait at least 2-3 weeks (or as long as your tattoo artist advises) before going near a tanning bed.

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.

Can I fake tan with a new tattoo?

It's best to avoid fake tanning for a few weeks after having a new tattoo, as you need to let it heal.

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 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.

How long to wait after a tattoo before spray tan?

Protect your tattoos: If you have fresh tattoos, it's best to wait until they are fully healed before getting a spray tan. This usually takes about 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo.

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 put fake tan over henna tattoos?

If you apply fake tan- either do so more than a week before, or 3-5 days after your henna appointment. If it's applied too soon after the henna, it can ruin the henna stain. It's one of the most common reasons for henna stains not taking (along with sun blocks/ sun screens, for the same reason).

Can a tattoo be fully healed in 2 weeks?

On average, a tattoo takes two to four weeks to heal. However, it takes about three to six months for the skin underneath the tattoo to fully heal. 12 This time depends on specific skin reactions, tattoo size, and ink colors used.

What should a tattoo look like after 2 weeks?

The tattooed area will scab up. Then, the scabs should naturally flake off. Once the scabs have disappeared and the dead skin has fallen off, the tattoo is completely healed. Most tattoos take about 2 weeks to heal fully.

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