How long after a tattoo can you sunbathe?

Author: D'angelo DuBuque DVM  |  Last update: Saturday, April 5, 2025

Sun Protection for New Tattoos 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.

When can I go in sun after a tattoo?

After getting a tattoo, it's generally recommended to avoid direct sunlight on the tattooed area for at least 2 to 4 weeks. This waiting period allows the skin to heal properly and helps prevent fading or damage to the tattoo.

Can I tan 2 weeks after getting a 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.

Does sunbathing affect tattoos?

Any tattoo exposed to the sun is at risk of fading. The risk is at its peak during the healing period, as the nature of the tattooing process leaves your skin sensitive to the UV rays. However, long term sun protection is key to keeping the lines of your tattoo smooth and defined.

Can I put sunscreen on a 2 week old tattoo?

It's generally recommended to avoid applying sunscreen on a new tattoo until it has fully healed. This typically takes about 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo, as well as individual healing processes. Here are some guidelines:

Suntan Before and After Laser Tattoo Removal Okay or Not?

Can I go to the beach with a 2 week old tattoo?

Swimming in saltwater with a new tattoo is not recommended. Saltwater can irritate the healing skin and increases the risk of infection, so it's best to wait at least 2-4 weeks until your tattoo is fully healed before swimming.

How to protect a new tattoo at the beach?

Apply a quality sunscreen to protect your sensitive skin from UV damage, a waterproof dressing, and ensure your tattoo does not come in contact with sand. Chlorine is drying for the skin, but applying barrier creams or ointments and a waterproof bandage can help divert chlorine from affecting your new tattoo.

Will one sunburn ruin a tattoo?

With the exception of getting an infection, too much sunlight is the worst thing that can happen to a new tattoo. At best, a sunburn on a new tattoo will extend the time needed for the tattoo to fully heal. In extreme conditions, it can distort the lines and coloring of the tattoo.

How long after a tattoo can you shower?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before jumping into the shower. This initial waiting period gives your skin time to begin healing. When you do shower, try to minimize direct contact with the tattooed area and limit its exposure to water.

What's a good sunscreen for tattoos?

The best sunscreens for tattoos, at a glance
  • Best Overall: Mad Rabbit SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen, $25.
  • Best Drugstore: Sun Bum Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30, $12.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Supergoop!' s SPF 50 Glow Stick, $30.
  • Best for Darker Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $43.

Can tattoos 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.

When can I tan after 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 to cover tattoo removal from sun?

If you must go in the sun and it's unavoidable either before or after your treatments, then try keeping your tattoo covered up with loose clothing or Bandaid.

Do tattoos affect vitamin D production?

There is also a chance that a blackout tattoo could affect vitamin D synthesis, Leger says, i.e. your body's ability to get and break down vitamin D from sun exposure.

How long to stay out of sun after a tattoo?

Sun Protection for New Tattoos

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.

Why does Aquaphor burn my tattoo?

I find that Aquaphor is too thick for this stage of aftercare and may clog the pores of your skin, increasing the risk of irritation and slowing the healing process. If you like Aquaphor for aftercare, please only use a very thin layer and switch to a regular lotion after a few days.

How often should I wash a new tattoo?

Wash your new tattoo within five hours of completion and continue washing it a couple of times a day until fully healed. Use clean hands and gentle, antibacterial soap to wash your tattoo. Rinse thoroughly and ensure all soap is removed. Let your tattoo air-dry or gently pat it dry with a clean cloth.

How soon after a tattoo can I go to the beach?

Your healing tattoo needs 2–3 weeks before exposure to chlorinated water. Ocean and saltwater: The salt and minerals can irritate healing skin that hasn't fully settled. Saltwater requires a minimum 3–4 week wait.

How to cover a tattoo when in the sun?

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. You may have a funny tan, but your ink will still be poppin'!

How long after a tattoo can you go in a hot tub?

How long after a tattoo do you have to wait before using a hot tub? The general recommendation is to wait at least two to four weeks before immersing your tattoo in water, particularly in a hot tub.

Why is my tattoo fading after 3 days?

After a few days, these effects might start to dim a bit because your skin has started to get used to the ink. It will still look great as long as you take care of it and let it heal properly. Your tattoo will naturally fade over time.

Is Aquaphor good for tattoos?

Eucerin Aquaphor's gentle and non-irritating formula helps to alleviate discomfort, itchiness, and redness associated with brand new tattoos. By providing a soothing and calming effect, it allows the skin to heal undisturbed, promoting a smoother and more comfortable recovery.

How to speed up tattoo healing?

7 Hacks To Help Heal Your New Tattoo
  1. Relax and Stay Calm. First things first, relax. ...
  2. Say No to Re-Bandaging. ...
  3. Let Your Tattoo Breathe—No Picking Allowed. ...
  4. Avoid Baths, Pools, and Hot Tubs. ...
  5. Stay Out of the Sun (For Now) ...
  6. Embrace Healthy Lifestyle Habits.

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