Sunscreens are considered a staple when people are concerned with their skin health. For those who spend most of the time outdoors always have to apply a good quality sunscreen to stay away from skin damages caused by the direct sunlight.
Though most of us know the level of SPF that is necessary for our skin depending on the outdoor conditions and our skin type, the matter becomes a bit tricky if you have tattooed skin. To keep your skin as well as your tattoos safe from getting affected by sun rays, the best sunscreens for tattoos must be selected carefully.
The sunscreens which are suitable for tattooed skin are usually safe to use on tattoos without affecting the color and features of tattoos whether you have lots of shading or just lines, the skin and the tattoo ink would not be affected when you have the best possible sunscreen applied carefully.
For our readers who need to know which sunscreens are the best- here is our complete guide that will leave you with the most suitable options to get acquainted, for protecting your tattooed skin.
Also Read:
Top 10 Best Tattoo Kit For Beginners – Reviews & Guide 2021
Best Soaps for Tattoos – 2021 Top Models Reviewed!
Best Numbing Spray for Tattoos – which one is reliable to keep the tattooing painless?
Best Tattoo Aftercare Products – 2021 Top Models Reviewed!
HoriKing Aurora Colorful Tattoo Machine Power Supply
Badger is formulated with only five ingredients, making it one of the simplest natural sunscreens for a tattoo. It also comes with hypoallergenic and Non-comedogenic formula, which is ideal for all types of skin, even the most sensitive skin types.
The formula is both sweat and water-resistant, which is a nice thing to protect your tattoo not just from dun but from sweat as well. The application is also very easy, with no extra precautions to follow.
It’s also interesting to note that the sunscreen is made with 98 percent organic ingredients, which means you have little or no risk of side effects. The ingredients include vitamin E, sea buckthorn, beeswax, as well as sunflower oil.
This sunscreen for a tattoo is planet-friendly, biodegradable, reef safe, and cruelty-free. It’s also free from BPA and phthalate. Overall, if you’re looking for the right sunscreen for the tattoo, this formula will be ideal for you.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30+
![81vhQAu0l-L._SL500_[1]](http://guyletatooer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/81vhQAu0l-L._SL500_1.jpg)
Blue Lizard is a very popular name in the industry. If you are a seasoned tattooist or a tattoo enthusiast, you would have probably heard about this tattoo sunscreen.
It provides broad-spectrum protection, as it prevents the damage caused by UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is fortified with vitamin E, which is surely needed to maintain moisturized skin.
You will also love the fact that the sunscreen is water-resistant., which means it’s going to stay right where you apply them. Titanium and zinc oxide are the two major ingredients of the formula. The zinc oxide, in particular, serves as a physical blocker and protects the tattoo from discoloration and fading.
However, because it contains some chemical ingredients, those who have sensitive skin may find this sunscreen uncomfortable for them.
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
Sun Bum is another popular sunscreen for a tattoo that provides effective results. It keeps the tattoo from fading quickly because of the natural ingredients. It delivers UVB/UVA protection as it is formulated with vitamin E. The natural ingredients make this sunscreen lotion is the right fit for all skin types.
This one has a moisturizing effect, which will always keep the skin looking fresh. Those who have sensitive skin will not have issues with this sunscreen because it is made with natural ingredients. It doesn’t contain chemicals or any harmful substance that may damage the tattoo and skin.
Also, this sunscreen for the tattoo is formulated with antioxidants, which keep the skin fresh and moisturized.
One other interesting thing about sunscreen is the fact that it’s formulated for all types of skin. Even if you don’t have a tattoo to protect, the formula is naturally good on the skin.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 100+
Neutrogena Ultra is arguably the most popular sunscreen for a tattoo right now. It’s the first name that comes to the mind of most tattoo artists when they are recommending the right sunscreen for a tattoo for their customers.
Ironically, Neutrogena was not particularly formulated for tattoos. But it does keep the tattooed area in proper condition and provides UVB and UVA protection.
If you want to keep your tattoos from fading, this is the right sunscreen that will help you achieve that.
Another good thing about sunscreen is the fact that it’s perfect for all skin types. The natural ingredients used in its formulation make this possible.
And the water-resistant features add to its already impressive feature. It does not contain any chemical or harmful ingredients.
CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30 tattoo sunscreen
CannaSmack is another sunscreen for tattoos that offers a 100% non-comedogenic and water-resistant solution.
This unique formula will protect your tattoo from fading quickly. It is fragrance –free, color-free, and sulfate-free. This one is infused with hemp seed oil, which is rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E. It also contains omega-6 and omega-3, which is the reason why the skin feels nourished after a prolonged application of the sunscreen.
Another important feature of the sunscreen is the hypoallergenic qualities of the sunscreen. This formula is pretty easy to use, so you don’t need to bother about how to apply it.
And you will be dealing with a product that is Bonny certified, which means none of the raw ingredients of the products are tested on animals.
Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick
The Australian Gold is specifically formulated to keep the tattoo in its shiny state and preserve the skin moisture at the same time. This sunscreen for the tattoo is in the form of a stick, but a bit wider and ensures a wider coverage of the skin area in one application.
If you’re looking for a product that offers complete fade protection, you are looking at the right product. Even if you are always exposed to the sun, the Australian Gold sunscreen offers the right guarantee that your tattoo will not fade or discolor in any way.
It’s also ideal for indoor and outdoor tanning. Also, it is made with natural ingredients, which makes it also ideal for sensitive skin types. On the whole, this sunscreen for a tattoo is the right formula you need to prevent your tattoo from fading.
Tattoo Care Sunscreen SPF 30
Here is another sunscreen formula that offers UVB and UVA protection to all types of skin. It’s the right sunscreen and tattoo tanning lotion for sensitive skin because it’s formulated with natural ingredients.
The natural ingredients help you maintain moisturized skin and help your tattooed skin heal faster.
Some of the natural ingredients include Vitamin E and Calendula, which helps to prevent the tattoo from fading easily.
This sunscreen is not only meant to prevent the skin from damage from the sun, but it also serves as a tattoo protecting ointment. It helps the tattoo retain its ink for a very long time. Moreover, it’s water-resistant, which makes it safe to apply anytime. If you are looking for the best sunscreen for a tattoo, this one is certainly up there as one of the best.
Loving Naturals mild sunscreen
For those looking for only natural products and ingredients, it is sometimes very difficult to find a sunscreen that contains completely natural ingredients. But this sunscreen is different. It’s made with 100% natural ingredients. This means there is no addition of chemicals or other substances that may be harmful to the skin.
On top of its natural ingredients, the formula is also water-resistant. You can apply this on the body and stay in water for several minutes and expect this sunscreen not to wipe off.
Also, it offers complete UVA/UVB protection for different skin types. If you have a sensitive skin type, the natural ingredients in this one will make sure you don’t have adverse reactions. Moreover, the combination of organic oils and non-nano zinc makes this formula very effective for moisturizing the skin.
Goddess Garden Organics sunscreen lotion
Here is another completely biodegradable sunscreen for a tattoo that offers total UVA/UVB protection from the sun. And like a tattoo enthusiast, it keeps the tattoo from fading easily. It is also another water-resistant formula.
This sunscreen is formulated with natural ingredients, including sunflower oil and aloe vera. These two natural ingredients make sure your skin is protected with no side effects.
It’s one of the most organic sunscreens for tattoos because of the natural ingredients used in its formulation. The titanium oxide and zinc oxide ingredients, along with other moisturizing ingredients make this formula a perfect fit for those with sensitive skin.
There are no harsh chemicals like parabens, oxybenzone, or other chemicals in this one. If you want a sunscreen formula to prevent your tattoo from fading, Goddess Garden is the right formula for your tattooed skin needs.
Kokua Sun Care natural sunscreen
Kukua is made with 23 super-antioxidant ingredients, which combine to keep your skin properly moisturized and healthy. While others offer 40 minutes of water-resistance, this super sunscreen for tattoo offers impressive 80-minutes water resistance.
The 25% non-nano zinc oxide ingredient in this one offers protection against UVB and UVA. Other natural ingredients used in the formula include Noni honey, organic Noni Juice, Plumeria extract, Kukui Nut Oil, and Hawaiian Coffee extract.
With these natural ingredients, the skin will feel nourished and moisturized.
And just like other premium-formulated sunscreens for tattoos, this formula has zinc-oxide. It’s the most effective ingredient for those looking to prevent their tattoo from fading. It does not contain any artificial or synthetic ingredients, which is good for people with sensitive skin.
Things to consider when buying sunscreen for tattoos
The heat from the sun can be cruel and it may affect your skin. If you are having a tattoo then it is also vulnerable to fading away under the direct sunlight. Blistering and sunburn can be the issues for unprotected skin. Newer tattoos are especially more vulnerable. Sunscreen can be a protector here both your skin and your tattoo. You need to be careful in the selection considering some key points.
Spray or Lotion
You have two choices for sunscreen in terms of its form. It is either a spray or a lotion. The tattoo experts and skincare specialists are unanimously in favor of lotion. They are good as they are required to be rubbed/ massaged and that helps in forming a secure protective barrier. Sunscreen sticks can also be employed in the same way.
Ingredients
As a responsible buyer, you must be sure about the ingredients that your sunscreen has. The first thing to check is that there should not be any toxic material. Moreover, it shouldn’t contain any phthalates, paraben and any sort of artificial fragrances or colors. Further, it should ideally have natural ingredients only. The most desirable ingredients are aloe vera, vitamins, miners, antioxidants and other nourishing ingredients.
Broad Spectrum
This is a critical feature to have. Broad-spectrum sunscreen would protect against both the UVA and UVB type of rays. These rays are known to be harmful to both the tattoo and the skin.
SPF Rating
This is another key consideration in the selection of sunscreen. Your desirable product should provide SPF. You should think about having SPF-30 at least. The maximum rating that you can get will be SPF-50. Anything above SPF-50 would offer the same level of protection as the SPF-50.
Water Resistance
Having a sunscreen for a tattoo with water resistance ability is highly desirable. You must select a product that offers water resistance for about 30 minutes to 90 minutes. This is critical especially if you are having a tattoo and look to swim in the open as well. This will also ensure that you do not require any frequent reapplication of sunscreen at all.
Frequently asked questions
Are there sunscreens especially designed for tattoos or I can use any standard sunscreen?
Yes, there are sunscreens especially designed for tattoos. The basic ingredients are the same but some added ingredients offer specific protection for tattoos against the sun. The sunscreens with minerals are deemed highly suitable for tattooed skin.
Should I consider sunscreen in the form of an oil, spray or cream?
As per the tattoo experts and skin specialists, sunscreen in the form of a cream is the most desirable one. It is because the cream can be applied nicely through little rubbing and massage while forming a secure protective layer over the tattooed skin.
Can I use sunscreen over my healing tattoo?
No, it is not advised. It is because of the number of chemicals it has, which could lead to an adverse reaction. You must restrict your tattoo from the sunlight until it is completely healed.
What is the recommended SPF rating to be used for maximum sun protection for tattoos?
As per the American Academy of Dermatology, SPT minimum of 30 is recommended for maximum sun protection. However, you can go up till SPF-50 for maximum protection of your tattoo and skin.
What is broad-spectrum protection with sunscreen for tattoos?
The sunscreen for tattoos with broad-spectrum protection is designed to protect both against the UVA and UVB rays. SPF alone protects only the UVB rays, while broad spectrum protects from UVA rays as well.
Are sunscreens approved by FDA?
The top-quality manufacturers have their products approved by FDA and you surely can find one having such approval. The products containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are also approved by the FDA.
Video Credit: Beardbrand
What are the hazardous ingredients that I should be vary of in sunscreen for tattoos?
Some substandard sunscreens might come with hazardous ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. The oxybenzone ingredient has the potential to get absorbed well into the bloodstream and more than the FDA approved threshold. Para-aminobenzoic is also not desirable as it can cause allergic dermatitis.
How often should I consider applying sunscreen to my tattoo?
If you are looking to go in the sun having a tattoo then apply the sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the open. You need to reapply every 2 hours as long as you are in the sun. In the case of sweating heavily or swimming, you need to apply even more often.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is a pivotal product to protect your skin and tattoo simultaneously from UVA and UVB rays. Chose a product that offers broad-spectrum protection. You also must get a product with no toxic chemicals and having only rich natural ingredients.
Furthermore, if you have tattoos on your skin, choosing the best sunscreens for tattoos is always the perfect way to keep your skin and the tattoos safe from sun rays and direct exposure to harmful light. This ensures longer lasting tattoos and healthier skin that will not develop any harmful effects due to sun exposure.
Make sure you choose an effective, skin-friendly and tattoo-friendly sunscreen that will protect your skin for sure and will have no damaging effect on your tattoos as well. Our guide and detailed reviews have given above will lead you to the best possible sunscreen you will ever need.
Power Up Your Tattoo Game: Reviews and Guide to the Best Tattoo Power Supplies