Getting a tattoo is exciting! It’s art on your skin that shows who you are. But sun can hurt your tattoo. It can make the colors fade and the skin dry. That’s why you need a suntan lotion for tattoos. This kind of lotion helps keep your tattoo safe and bright.
But not all lotions are good for tattoos. Some can even hurt your skin. So how do you find the best suntan lotion for tattoos? This guide will help you pick the right one. We will look at things like how well it works, how much it costs, how long it lasts, the brand, and what users say.
Tattoos are made by putting ink under your skin. Sunlight has strong rays called UV rays. These rays can break down the ink and make your tattoo look old and faded.
A suntan lotion for tattoos blocks UV rays. It protects your tattoo and your skin. It also keeps your skin soft and healthy. This is true for new tattoos and old ones.
In North America, the sun can be very strong — especially in summer and near the beach. So using the right sunscreen is very important.
The most important thing is protection. You want a lotion that stops UV rays.
Look for:
- SPF 30 or higher: SPF means “Sun Protection Factor.” SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPF (like 50) blocks a little more.
- Broad-spectrum: This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays fade tattoos. UVB rays burn skin.
- Water-resistant: If you swim or sweat, you need a lotion that stays on your skin longer.
Some lotions are made just for tattoos. They use gentle ingredients that don’t irritate the skin. Others are for the face or body but still work well.
Tip: For new tattoos, wait until the skin heals (about 2–4 weeks) before putting on sunscreen. Use clothing or shade at first.
Good sunscreen doesn’t have to cost a lot. But cheap ones might not work well.
Price Ranges:
- $5–$10: Basic lotions. May not be made for tattoos. Check the ingredients.
- $10–$15: Mid-range. Often better quality. Many top brands are here.
- $15–$25: Premium. Made for sensitive skin or tattoos. Often have extra skin care benefits.
You don’t need the most expensive one. But don’t pick the cheapest if it has bad ingredients.
Tip: A bigger bottle can save money in the long run if you use it a lot.
Durability means how long the lotion stays on your skin and how long the bottle lasts.
Water Resistance:
- 40 minutes: Good for short time in water.
- 80 minutes: Better for swimming or sports.
Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Bottle Size:
- Small (3 oz): Good for travel.
- Large (6 oz or more): Good for daily use.
A long-lasting formula means you don’t have to reapply too often.
Some brands are known for making good sunscreens. Here are a few trusted ones:
1. Sun Bum
- SPF 50, broad-spectrum, water-resistant.
- Made in the USA.
- Has a “Tinted Mineral” version for tattoos.
- Smells nice and feels light on skin.
- Price: $12–$15
2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer
- SPF 100, very strong protection.
- Light and invisible on skin.
- Not made for tattoos, but works well.
- Price: $10–$12
3. CeraVe Sunscreen
- SPF 50, with ceramides and niacinamide.
- Helps repair skin and keeps moisture.
- Great for sensitive skin.
- Price: $13–$15
4. Mad Rabbit Tattoo SPF 50
- Made just for tattoos!
- Mineral-based, gentle, and non-greasy.
- Blocks UV rays and keeps ink bright.
- Price: $18–$20
Tip: Look for brands that are cruelty-free and reef-safe, especially if you’re near the ocean.
Real people’s opinions help a lot. Here’s what users say about suntan lotion for tattoos:
Good Things:
- “My tattoo stayed bright after a beach trip!”
- “It doesn’t sting my skin.”
- “I like that it’s not greasy.”
- “Smells good and goes on easy.”
Bad Things:
- “It leaves a white cast.” (Some mineral sunscreens do this.)
- “It’s too thick.”
- “Too expensive for a small bottle.”
Mad Rabbit and Sun Bum get the best reviews for tattoo care. Neutrogena is liked for high SPF, but some say it dries out skin.
Check websites like Amazon, Ulta, or dermatology sites for more reviews.
Here are the top choices based on all factors:
1. Best Overall: Mad Rabbit Tattoo SPF 50
- Made for tattoos.
- Gentle and strong protection.
- A bit pricey, but worth it.
2. Best Value: Sun Bum Original SPF 50
- Great protection, nice smell.
- Affordable and easy to find.
3. Best for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe SPF 50
- Heals skin while protecting.
- No perfume, no stinging.
4. Best High SPF: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 100
- Strongest shield from sun.
- Good for long days outside.
- At the beach or pool: Water and sun are tough on tattoos.
- Hiking or camping: High UV exposure.
- Everyday use: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can get through.
- After healing: Wait until your tattoo is fully healed (no scabs or peeling).
Use it every day if your tattoo is exposed to sun.
Some ingredients can hurt your tattoo or skin:
- Oxybenzone: Can cause skin reactions and harm coral reefs.
- Parabens and fragrances: May irritate sensitive skin.
- Alcohol: Can dry out your skin.
Pick lotions that are:
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Reef-safe
- Apply enough: Use about a shot glass full for your whole body.
- Reapply often: Every 2 hours, or after swimming.
- Store it right: Keep it in a cool, dry place. Heat can ruin the lotion.
- Check the date: Sunscreen expires. Most last 3 years.
- Protect new tattoos with clothes: Use hats, shirts, or bandages at first.
Taking care of your tattoo is important. The best suntan lotion for tattoos keeps your ink bright and your skin safe. Look for high SPF, broad-spectrum, and water-resistant formulas. Pick trusted brands like Mad Rabbit, Sun Bum, or CeraVe. Think about price, how long it lasts, and what users say.
Remember, the best lotion is the one you will use every day. Keep your tattoos looking fresh and your skin healthy!
