This article originally appeared in Glamour in August 2024.
Sun damage is one of the fastest ways to ruin a tattoo. Whether you just got fresh ink or you’re trying to preserve an old favorite, protecting tattoos with SPF is non-negotiable—and Glamour’s recent guide to the best sunscreens for tattoos breaks it all down.
The article features insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. William Kwan, who has over 30 years of tattoo removal experience and serves as the Chair of the Clinical Advisory Board at Removery, as well as expert tattoo artist Via Savage of Dollface Tattoo Brooklyn.
According to Savage, “Over time, the pigment in tattoos is broken down by the sun’s UV rays. Even if you take great care of your tattoo while healing, without SPF, you’ll see serious fading fast.”
That’s especially true for lighter and more vibrant ink tones like yellow, orange, and teal, which fade faster than black or darker colors.
Dr. Kwan confirms that sun-exposed areas like arms, shoulders, and legs tend to lose color the fastest, often prompting clients to seek laser tattoo removal as a result.
Glamour‘s editors shared their favorite SPFs to keep ink vibrant, including:
Dr. Kwan and Savage agree that mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are the best option for tattooed skin. Not only do they physically block UV rays, but they also avoid harsh ingredients that can cause irritation.
“I recommend SPF 50 or higher,” said Dr. Kwan, “but what matters most is that people reapply frequently and apply it liberally.”
Importantly, fresh tattoos should be fully healed before sunscreen is applied. Until then, cover them with breathable bandages if you’re in direct sun.
Tired of seeing your ink fade? Whether you want to protect your tattoos or explore laser removal for sun-damaged ink, our Beverly Hills Tattoo Removal Studio is here to help.
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