Introduction
No, it would be best if you didn’t put sunscreen on a new tattoo. Using sunscreen on a new tattoo can be risky, so it’s good to wait for the healing process to complete. It’s good to wait for the tattoo to be fully healed before using sunscreen.
Most people ask Can You Put Sunscreen On A New Tattoo so let’s explore deeply in this article and find out the advantages and disadvantages of using sunscreen on a new tattoo.

Why Sun Protection Is Important for Tattoos
Tattoos and Sun Exposure
New tattoos are like open wounds and using sunscreen on them can be very risky. They need some time to heal completely. The sunlight can be very harmful to new tattoos.
The UV rays of sunlight can cause infection to the skin. Keeping your tattoo safe from sunlight can help the skin to heal fast and look brighter.
Risks of UV Exposure
- Fading Colors: UV rays of sunlight can make your tattoo fade and can make your tattoos appear dull.
- Scarring: Sunlight can interfere with the healing and can also increase the chances of scarring.
- Skin Damage: The skin around your tattoo can also be damaged, which can lead to irritation and damage to the skin.
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Why You Should Avoid Sunscreen on a New Tattoo
New Tattoos Need to Breathe
A new tattoo is like an open wound that needs some time to heal fully. In the first few weeks, your skin needs to breathe fully to get proper healing. Many sunscreens contain harsh chemicals and their thickness can be the reason for many problems. It might block out the moisturizer and cause infection to the skin.
Chemical Irritation
Sunscreens often contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, mostly it affects the new fresh tattoo. It also contains ingredients like fragrances and alcohol which can cause redness or irritation to the skin.
Infection Risk
If you apply sunscreen to a new tattoo, it can increase the risk of infection. Sunscreen ingredients can mix with the open wound and make it easier for bacteria and germs to get in.

When Is It Safe to Apply Sunscreen on a Tattoo?
Wait Until the Tattoo Is Fully Healed
Signs Your Tattoo Has Healed
- No More Scabbing: The scabs from your tattoo should be completely gone.
- No More Redness or Swelling: The skin should no longer be red or swollen.
- Smooth Skin: The skin should feel completely smooth to the touch.
Tips to Protect Your New Tattoo from the Sun
Avoid Direct Sunlight
To protect your skin from any infection, it’s good to avoid direct sunlight. It is compulsory to protect your skin from sunlight because it can lead to swelling. Try to stay indoor in the daytime to make your tattoo heal fast.
Cover the Tattoo
When going outside, remember to cover your tattoo with loose cloth from sunlight. Covering with loose cloth can’t cause any irritation. Choose a breathable fabric to protect your tattoo and let it get air.
Use a Protective Cover
If you want extra protection, then use a bandage or wrap made for tattoos. These keep your tattoo safe from the sunlight and let it breathe freely.
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What Type of Sunscreen Should You Use on Healed Tattoos?
Pick a Sunscreen That Covers UVA/UVB Rays
When your tattoo is fully healed and your skin feels smooth, it’s important to use sunscreen that gives you protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This type of sunscreen provides proper defense against scaring and fading.
Choose Mineral-Based Sunscreens
Go for SPF 30 or Higher
Choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can provide the best protection. The level of protection can help you to be safe from sunburn and fading of your tattoo.
Water-Resistant Sunscreen
If you are thinking about swimming, it is good to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. It lasts longer and keeps protecting your skin even when it gets wet.
How to Apply Sunscreen on Healed Tattoos
Clean the Area First
It’s important to make sure that your tattooed skin is clean and dry before applying sunscreen. This will provide more effective protection.
Apply Generously
Apply sunscreen generously over your tattoo and its surroundings. A thick layer can protect your tattoo from sunlight.
Reapply as Needed
Reapply sunscreen to your skin regularly. This will keep your tattoo protected throughout the day.

Personal Experience: Can You Put Sunscreen on a New Tattoo?
When I got my first new tattoo, I was excited about it. As I was living in a sunny area, so I was thinking of protecting it from the sunlight. I applied sunscreen on my new tattoo and I was completely disappointed. I also learned that it wasn’t the best choice for a new tattoo.
The Mistake of Using Sunscreen on a New Tattoo
After getting my new tattoo, I applied sunscreen to protect it from the sun. But the area surrounding the tattoo became red and began to irritate me. I realized that applying sunscreen on a new tattoo was a bad idea because the chemicals in the sunscreen can irritate the open wound.
The Right Way to Protect a New Tattoo
After that experience, I came to learn that tattoos need time to heal without interference from products like sunscreen. For new weeks, I protected my tattoos by wearing loose clothes and also by avoiding going outdoors.
When It’s Safe to Use Sunscreen
I waited 25 days before using sunscreen on my tattoo. After the healing was completed, I chose a mineral-based sunscreen with a high SPG. This sunscreen as protective against the harmful radiations of the sun.
My Advice for New Tattoo Care
If you have a new tattoo, avoid using sunscreen until it’s healed completely. Protect your tattoo by protecting your skin from sunlight and wearing loose shirts. When the healing process is completed, you can use sunscreen to keep your tattoo bright and protected. Patience and proper aftercare are important for maintaining the quality of your tattoo.

Conclusion
Most people recommend not to use sunscreen on a new tattoo. Your tattoo needs sometime to heal properly, applying sunscreen on it early can lead to scarring and infection.
It’s better to protect your tattoo by keeping it out of the sun and wearing loose clothes. When your tattoo is fully healed, use sunscreen to protect it from fading and damage. Patience and proper care are key to keeping your tattoo looking its best.
FAQ's: Can You Put Sunscreen On A New Tattoo
Q1: When can I start using sunscreen on my tattoo?
Ans: You can start using sunscreen on your tattoo after it has fully healed. This process could take 3 to 5 weeks. Make sure that your skin looks normal before applying sunscreen.
Q2: How can you protect a new tattoo from the sun?
Ans: You can protect a new tattoo from sunlight by covering it with a loose cloth. You can also stay indoors during the healing stages. Be safe from direct sunlight until the tattoo is fully healed.
Q3: What type of sunscreen is safe for new tattoos?
Ans: Mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Remember to wait for the healing process to complete and then apply sunscreen on it gently.