12 Sunscreens That Will Keep Your Tattoos From Fading
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Wearing sun protection can shield your skin from sunburn and damage from harmful UV rays, and it's also beneficial for protecting your tattoos. No matter its size or location, the best sunscreen for tattoos can help slow the fading and dulling of the vibrant colors. When we're basking in warm weather for a longer time and our skin is more exposed, it's imperative to stay protected from head to toe.
Luckily, there's no special formula you need to use to keep your ink protected — you can slather on whatever your favorite face and body sunscreens on the design, but the most important thing is that you use it.
Can You Put Sunscreen on a New Tattoo?
As a rule of thumb, it's best to stay out of the sun entirely until your new tattoo is completely healed, including before applying sunscreen. Since newly inked skin is damaged and undergoing a healing process, it can get easily irritated from sunscreens and is more prone to infection. Instead, you'll want to shield your tattoo from UV rays by wearing loose clothing and avoiding direct sun exposure.
Now that you've learned the basics, we've picked a variety of sunscreens based on price points, SPF levels, and more. Whether it's a physical sunscreen, a chemical sunscreen, or a hybrid, you'll have a ton of options to choose from. We even found a few stick and spray formats, so you can quickly reapply on the go, or protect hard-to-reach places like your back. Keep your skin and tattoos protected (no matter the size) with the most effective sunscreens ahead.
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Best Sunscreen For Tattoos
Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen SPF 30 ($27)
The Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen SPF 30 is a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen that is specifically designed for tattoos. Dermatologist and founder of Uptown Dermatology Elizabeth Mullans, MD noticed that her patients' skin starting to peel on the tattoo site. "Not using sunscreen causes tattoos to fade when they're exposed to sunlight," she says. The 100 percent mineral sunscreen has a soothing formula that also contains vitamin C and rosehip oil. It helps keep your tattoo protected from fading while offering deep moisture as well.
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Best Physical Sunscreen For Tattoos
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 ($13)
This oil-free sunscreen is made with 100 percent zinc oxide, and it's water-resistant. Unlike other physical formulas, though, it's formulated with Neutrogena's signature Dry-Touch technology, making it dry down to a non-greasy finish. This sunscreen is lightweight with a sheer coverage, so your tattoo can shine through. It's hypoallergenic as well.
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Best Clear Sunscreen For Tattoos
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($16)
The Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a sheer formula that won't leave behind a white cast. It's infused with moisturizing ingredients like jojoba and avocado, and it's fragrance free. The product is a great sunscreen for tattoos, since you'll be able to show off your new ink while also protecting them.
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Best Sunscreen For Tattoos For Sensitive Skin
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion SPF 30 ($9)
If you're looking for something hydrating and gentle, the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion SPF 30 is your best bet. It's formulated without aluminum, dye, and parabens. If your tattoo feels drier than the rest of your skin, this sunscreen will hydrate it. It's a great option for those with sensitive skin as well.
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Best Hydrating Sunscreen For Tattoos
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50 ($16)
Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion goes on clear and smooth with a weightless feel. It's a chemical-based formulation that delivers a broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without oxybenzone. It's also great for those with drier skin, especially if your tattoo needs a boost of hydration.
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Best Sunscreen For Tattoos With High SPF
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen SPF 100 Lotion ($9)
This Coppertone sunscreen boasts an SPF of 100 with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It's a lovely sunscreen for tattoos, especially if you're spending the day at the beach or pool, especially since it's sweat and water resistant, as well as heat resistant. This is chemical-based sunscreen formulated without octinoxate.
You can also get this Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 ($9) to make it easier to reapply throughout the day.
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Best Stick Sunscreen For Tattoos
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ ($30)
Perfect for touch-ups, this Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ goes on completely clear and can be used to quickly provide tattoo protection on the go. Small enough to fit in your bag or pocket, it has a high SPF of 50 and is great for those with an active lifestyle.
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Best Mousse Sunscreen For Tattoos
Supergoop! Play Body Mousse SPF 50 ($34)
Tired of sprays, sticks, and lotions? Try the Supergoop! Play Body Mousse SPF 50, which has a whipped-cream-like texture that'll make reapplying sunscreen 10 times more fun. It's a hydrating formula that has a high SPF of 50 — perfect for keeping your tattoos protected.
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Best Oil-Free Sunscreen For Tattoos
Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 70+ ($11)
If you're moving around, don't worry about your sunscreen staying put — just reach for this Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 70+. It has a high SPF of 70 and is a great option for keeping your tattoos protected during outdoor activities or workouts.
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Best Spray Sunscreen For Tattoos
Coola Organic Classic Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 ($25)
If you prefer spray sunscreens, Coola's Organic Classic Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 is a great choice. It's fragrance free, if you're looking for something without that classic strong smell. It's a great option for applying sunscreen in hard-to-reach places, like your back. Keep your tattoos protected with this efficient sunscreen.
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Best Sunscreen For Tattoos on Sensitive Skin
Vanicream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($18)
Vanicream's sunscreen is a beloved dermatologist formula that's ideal for any skin type, even the more sensitive ones. Formulated with 12 percent zinc oxide, this purely physical sunscreen is a solid choice for keeping your tattoos protected. Bonus: it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes and free of harsh chemicals, lanolin, fragrances, and dyes.
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Best Sunscreen For Tattoos For an Active Lifestyle
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ ($15)
If you're doing water activities, you want a sunscreen that's water resistant. This Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a great option for protecting your tattoos when you're at the beach or pool. This gentle and fast-absorbing sunscreen is a hydrating option that is formulated with 20 percent non-nano zinc oxide. It won't leave your skin feeling unpleasantly sticky or oily either.
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