Deciding how long after a tattoo can you tan can leave many newly inked individuals torn at heart, eager to show off their new art but also cautious about the healing process.
While you might be tempted to forgo waiting and jump into fake tanning in a short space of time, it’s important to give your tattoo(s) enough time to fully heal before you apply any fake tan, fake tanning oil, or mousse, and even gradual fake tanning moisturiser.
Typically, healing times can range from 2-4 weeks, but in the grand scheme of things, for a permanent body fixture, it’s not long at all.
During this period, aid the healing process with cream recommended by your tattooist.
While the technical answer to whether you can tan after a tattoo is yes, you must consider the well-being of your body and the longevity of your tattoo before making that decision.
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Can You Tan After Getting A Tattoo?
Exposing your new tattoo to sunlight can have damaging effects.
Sunlight exposure is not just about realizing you forgot to slather on tanning oil and then deciding to roast in the sun; even casual exposure such as driving with the windows down can allow your skin and tattoo to soak up the sun.
Even on cloudy days, harmful rays can do serious damage. There are several ways sun exposure can affect your new ink.
You’ve probably heard enough warnings to postpone that fake tan weekend quick sneak peek.
If you must, opt for a product like Three Warriors, a natural fake tan product range, to safely get that tanned look without risking your tattoo’s integrity.
Remember, the key is to protect your tattoo from direct sunlight to ensure it heals beautifully and retains its vibrancy.
1. UV Light Fades Your Tattoo
Understanding how UV light fades your tattoo is crucial, especially when considering tanning after getting a tattoo.
UV light is notorious for causing fading and pigment damage to your new tattoo, turning what were once sharp lines and beautiful, bright colours into a dulled version.
It’s vital to ensure your tattoo has minimal exposure to UV light. Over time, all tattoos fade, but this particular type of light can accelerate the process, making your tattoo fade faster as the ink absorbs UV rays and breaks down the pigment particles.
This is akin to how tattoo removal using a laser works, which is essentially a potent version of UV exposure.
Protecting your tattoo from these rays is key to preserving the art you’ve chosen to wear permanently.
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2. Sun Exposure Changes The Colours Of Your Tattoo
Sun exposure significantly changes the colours of your tattoo. The vibrant hues you admired in the mirror can fade, warp, and change when subjected to sunlight over time.
When getting a tattoo, the needle penetrates about 1/16th into the skin, affecting up to five layers with a permanent effect.
Imagine your tattoo as a filter; when you’re tanning, the skin’s top layers get darker, making the colours of your tattoo change.
This effect is similar to looking at an image through a transparent yet colored lens.
The more you expose your tattoo to the sun, the more pronounced these changes become, altering the original artistry of your ink.
Protecting your tattoo from the sun is not just a healing measure but a long-term commitment to maintaining the art’s integrity.
3. Your Tattoo Can Blister And Crack
A recently tattooed skin is delicate, and you might be wondering how long after getting a tattoo you can tan.
However, the thought of your tattoo cracking should stop you in your tracks.
If you’re tempted to soak up the sun, remember that your new tattoo is especially sensitive and can be easily damaged with just a little sun exposure.
In some cases, a sunburn on your new tattoo can cause the tattoo to peel, blister, and crack, which can be incredibly painful and damage the skin your hardworking tattoo artist has meticulously inked.
If blistered or cracked, your tattoo won’t heal properly. To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your art, use a ton of sunscreen and wear clothing to cover it when exposed to the sun.
Protecting your tattoo from these harsh elements is crucial for its healing and preservation.
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How Long After Getting A Tattoo Can You Tan?
When considering tanning after getting a new tattoo, it’s crucial to understand that your tattoo is essentially an open wound.
Your skin is busy working to regenerate and heal the area. Typically, tattoos take around one month to fully heal, but this can vary.
During this time, you might experience mild scabbing or what’s often referred to as a milk scabbing point, where the skin is particularly hypersensitive.
This is a delicate phase where UV rays can cause not just discomfort but actual damage, often felt as a stinging sensation — a definite warning sign.
Now, if you’re wondering exactly how long you must wait to tan after getting a new tattoo, the safe recommendation is at least one to two months.
This timeframe ensures that the newly regenerated skin has had ample time to fortify itself.
Tanning too soon can not only extend the healing time but also risk severe burns, scarring, or even permanent tattoo distortion.
And remember, even after a month or two, your skin is still more vulnerable than usual and can burn more quickly.
From personal experience, I’ve learned to respect the healing process. Once, I ventured out too soon, only to be met with an uncomfortably warm and reddened tattoo.
It was a clear message from my body: the skin needed more months to heal. Now, I always recommend against any UV rays exposure with the intent to tan on new tattoo areas.
But if you intend to tan before those one to two months are up, there are ways to protect your tattoo.
Use a high SPF sunscreen, cover the tattooed area with clothing or a bandage, and most importantly, listen to your skin. If it feels off, it probably is.
Also Read: Why Tattoo Lines Thicker After Healing
Can You Put Sunscreen On A New Tattoo?
When it comes to new tattoos, there are rules about sunscreen application that one must be extra cautious about.
Your tattoo is in the healing phase, and the ingredients in common sunscreen can be unsafe for usage on what is essentially an open wound.
Harsh chemicals found in many sunscreens can irritate or burn a new tattoo, leading to discomfort and even affecting the healing process.
It’s critical to be picky about what you put on your tattoos, especially when they’re fresh and careful consideration is needed to choose the best sunscreen for tattoos.
You cannot put sunscreen on a brand new tattoo. Generally, it’s advised to wait at least two to three weeks, once the tattoo has stopped weeping and has started to heal.
During this initial period, it’s best to avoid sun exposure altogether.
Once healed, sunscreen becomes a crucial barrier of protection against UVA and UVB rays, which can make your tattoo more vulnerable and susceptible to severe damage.
From my own mishaps and learning, I’ve found that using a gentle, tattoo-safe sunscreen not only protects the skin but also maintains the vibrancy of the tattoo.
Remember, even a healed tattoo is prone to fading and aging from the sun, so regular application of a suitable sunscreen is key.
1. Tattoos And Fading In The Sun
Tattoos and fading in the sun is an inevitable duo that tattoo enthusiasts often grapple with.
Tattoo fading is a natural occurrence over time, but when a tattoo is exposed to the sun, the UV rays can significantly accelerate the fading process.
Imagine this: to visualize the effect, compare it to a laser tattoo removal system.
Just like a laser in a tattoo removal system is a highly concentrated UV ray that shoots at the tattoo in small, rapid bursts, breaking down the ink to be absorbed by the bloodstream, sitting in the sun to tan allows UV rays to hit your tattoo, slowly breaking down the ink to be absorbed by your body and fades away.
The sun is particularly attracted to dark colors, just like it is to any abnormality in the skin, including moles, freckles, and your tattoo.
It’s the darkest pigment that attracts the most attention from the UV rays.
Consequently, the sun causes the light and bright colors to fade the quickest, causing feathering where the darker pigments tend to hold a bit longer.
Feathering is when the pigment becomes less sharp and starts to appear more blurry over time.
From personal experience, I’ve watched vibrant tattoos lose their luster, especially on parts of my body that were frequently sun-kissed.
It’s a visual reminder of the sun’s power and the care that tattoos require to maintain their beauty.
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2. Sun Tanning Beds
When considering sun tanning beds for your post-tattoo tan, it’s vital to understand that these are concentrated UV environments, where a single tanning session of about 12 minutes can be comparable to spending three hours in the sun.
This intensity is not just dangerous for your skin but particularly harmful for fading tattoos, and can even cause new tattoos to burn and damage more quickly than natural sunlight.
As someone who has navigated the complexities of tattoo care, I urge tattoo enthusiasts to approach tanning beds with extreme caution or avoid them altogether to protect the integrity of their art.
3. Tanning With Tattoos As Safely As Possible
To tanning with tattoos safely, avoid direct sunlight on fresh ink and take precautions to preserve the life of your tattoo while keeping your skin safe.
4. Don’t Start Too Soon
Don’t start tanning too soon; it should be avoided until your new tattoo is at least a few months old.
Rushing this process is like spending a fortune on a work of art only to throw it away over time.
Exposing it to the sun is a waste and a risk; a premature burn on newly healed skin can cause permanent issues down the line.
5. Lather On The Sunscreen
When you plan to go out in the sun, lathering up with sunscreen should be as instinctual as grabbing your keys.
Consider sunblock your back pocket defense on any sunny day. Remember, even when it’s cloudy, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds and impact your tattoo.
Making sunscreen a part of your daily tattoo routine is not just about the tattoo’s longevity but also your general skin health and preservation.
Opt for a zinc oxide sunscreen, which acts like an umbrella for your skin, repelling UV rays with a recommended SPF of minimum 30.
But beware, while SPF 50 sounds more protective, sunscreens with greater SPF than 50 often introduce chemicals that can be bad for your skin and the environment.
Don’t just stop after one application; reapply your sunscreen every two hours of direct sun exposure, and directly after swimming or excessive perspiration.
As someone who’s seen the effects of sun damage on tattoos, I can’t stress enough the importance of a good sunscreen.
It’s not just about preventing burns; it’s about ensuring that the artwork you’ve chosen to carry on your skin remains as vibrant and detailed as the day you got it.
So, slather on that SPF and enjoy the sunshine, knowing you’re protecting your skin and your ink.
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6. Limit Your Exposure
When planning a day out, especially at the beach, always bring or rent an umbrella for coverage; a little Vitamin D in small bursts is fine, but making sure your tattooed skin has coverage is crucial.
Consider using sun protection sleeves, leg wraps, or any piece of clothing to keep you cool while helping to preserve the life of your tattoo.
Such precautions are essential to limit your exposure and protect the art that you’ve chosen to carry on your body.
7. Always Moisturize
Always moisturize; UVA and UVB rays are notoriously dehydrating to the skin, and for general skin and tattoo health, daily moisturizing is key.
Keeping the skin nourished and hydrated maintains its elasticity, helping aging skin and combatting sun damage.
Especially recommended after sun exposure, applying a nourishing post-sun moisturizer containing aloe vera can provide a soothing and rehydrating effect, crucial for preserving the vibrancy and detail of your tattoos.
8. Deal With Sunburn Promptly
Deal with sunburn promptly; it’s no joke and should be taken seriously the minute you recognize it.
What might look harmless on sensitive skin can quickly turn into a third-degree burn, particularly on tattooed skin, which could lead to infection, scarring, or permanent distortion.
If your skin feels tender, looks excessively red, or displays blistering and soreness, immediately moisturize with a nourishing and soothing natural product, hydrate well with water, and if severe, seek medical attention.
These are crucial tips for healing the area and ensuring the ink isn’t compromised.
9. Don’t Risk It
Don’t risk the well-being of your tattoo to sun damage; it’s simply not worth the risk.
Avoid any direct contact with UV rays exposure; resist the temptation of laying down for that bronzed look at the tanning salon.
You’re not just benefiting your general health but also ensuring the longevity of your art investment on your skin.
Also Read: Little Bumps On Tattoo After Healed
Are Tanning Alternatives Better for Your Tattoo?
Tanning alternatives are indeed better for your tattoo. Exposure to natural sunlight can cause major damage to your skin and tattoo.
When considering forms of tanning, it’s wise to consider different ways to get a tan that won’t affect your freshly inked skin.
1. Spray Tanning
Spray tanning is a great alternative to bronze your skin without the damaging UV rays.
It’s a safe option for your tattoo and skin, but be aware that your tattoo may appear darker after you’ve gotten a spray tan.
This effect is temporary and will fade as the tan fades. To avoid any residue, wipe your tattoo clean right after the spray tan.
If you’re thinking to get a tattoo after a fake tan, it’s a different story; consult your tattoo artist to gauge how the tattoo colours will look against your skin colour with the tan, as it can be difficult to determine the colours of the tattoo once the tan has faded.
2. Self-Tanning
Self-Tanning is one of the safest ways to get a golden glow.
There are amazing brands that offer organic products that are not only safe for your skin but also safe to rejuvenate your skin and are tattoo safe.
Brands like Three Warriors offer amazing tanning products that are free from synthetic toxins and give your skin a sun-kissed glow.
Products like Gradual Tan are often infused with natural oils, vitamins, and aloe vera to hydrate the skin.
They also offer a selection of mists, mousse, and moisturizers as part of their organic tanning products for a perfect glow-up.
3. Use Sunscreen With A High SPF
Always use sunscreen with a high SPF, especially when you’re thinking about how soon you can tan after getting a tattoo.
Ensure the sunscreen has a high SPF to protect your freshly tatted skin.
Wearing sunscreen daily is vital to protect your skin, even in cloudy or cold weather, as the sun can still cause damage.
Make sure to reapply often, especially when your tattoo is exposed. Keep your tattoo well moisturized and protected while you’re out in the sun.
How Do You Know When Your Tattoo Is Ready For You To Tan?
How do you know when your tattoo is ready for you to tan? It’s a common question for those eager to show off their new ink in the sun.
Once your tattoo is done by a professional, it’s imperative to follow the aftercare instructions carefully before you even start tanning.
If you got your tattoo at home, it’s equally important to wait until the area is fully healed before you start to tan.
Typically, you should wait anywhere from two weeks to a month before considering getting spray-tanned or using a self-tanner, as this gives your tattoo ample time to heal fully and prevents any infection.
Once your tattoo has healed, you can start considering using a self-tanner or venturing into the sun.
However, it’s important to use a good quality sunscreen on your tattoo to protect it from the sun’s damage. Sun exposure can cause your tattoo to fade.
So, when you go into the sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen product with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you go outside and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
As for self-tanner, it’s important to exfoliate your skin to help the self-tanner apply evenly and prevent a streaky look.
Use a self-tanner designed for both face and body to ensure it won’t irritate your skin.
Apply the self-tanner according to the instructions on the bottle for the best results.
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Can You Use A Spray Tan With New Tattoos?
While you might be tempted to use a spray tan to enhance your new tattoos, it’s crucial to wait until your tattoo has had at least 4 weeks to heal before you apply any sunless tan products.
The solution should only be applied once the skin is completely healed, as tattoos are essentially open wounds and sunless tans could potentially irritate the area.
Once healed, a sunless tan can provide a sheer tint of brown to accentuate your tattoo, giving it a natural, sun-kissed glow.
If you’re considering self-tanning lotions, they may be the way to go, but always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product to ensure you’re not allergic to any ingredients.
When Can I Sunbathe My Tattooed Skin?
Once your tattoo is completely healed, typically in 2-4 weeks, you may sunbathe as you would with normal skin, but with extra caution.
Even healed, tattooed skin can be more sensitive to the sun’s rays. It’s important to use sunscreen to avoid any extended exposure to direct sunlight.
If you plan on spending time in the sun, ensure to cover your tattoo with clothing or sunscreen for added protection.
After it’s healed, you can enjoy the sun without much worry, but always remember to take care of your skin and consistently use sunscreen to prevent any potential damage.
How Do You Protect Your Tattoos When Tanning?
To protect your tattoos while tanning, first, use sunscreen specifically designed for tattoos and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on the tattooed area.
Be sure to reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating. Additionally, you can cover your tattoo with a bandage or clothing to shield it from the sun.
After sun exposure, take a cool shower or bath and gently pat your skin dry, then apply a moisturizer to keep the skin, including the tattooed area, hydrated.
This helps to prevent your tattoo from drying out and fading. If you have any concerns about your tattoo during the healing process, it’s crucial to contact your doctor or tattoo artist for advice.
Also Read: Can Tegaderm Ruin A Tattoo
FAQs About How Long After A Tattoo Can You Tan
1. Can I Put Fake Tan On A Week Old Tattoo?
Avoid fake tanning on a week old tattoo. It’s crucial to Allow 2/3 weeks for your tattoo to heal before applying any fake tan or spray tan. The chemicals in these products can cause reactions on your skin, especially a healing tattoo, potentially leading to touch-ups being needed, or in a worse-case scenario, an infection of the tattoo.
2. How Soon After A Tattoo Can You Fake Tan?
It’s generally recommended to wait until your tattoo is fully healed before using fake tan, which typically takes 2-4 weeks. It’s important to follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure proper healing and care.
3. Can I Tan 2 Weeks After Getting A Tattoo?
Wait until your tattoo is fully healed before tanning. It’s important to wait until the tattoo is fully healed before exposing it to the sun or tanning beds, which usually takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo.
4. What Happens If You Tan With A New Tattoo?
Tanning damages tattoos, causing fading and pigment damage. A new tattoo with fresh, sharp lines and bright colors looking new can quickly deteriorate with exposure to UV light. Make sure your tattoo is fully healed and protected to maintain its quality.
5. Can I Cover My New Tattoo On The Sunbed?
If you can’t wait for your new tattoo to properly heal before using a tanning bed, you must cover it with a towel and fasten it with medical tape to minimize exposure. Ensure the skin that isn’t part of the tattoo is exposed, and make sure the cloth is the same shape as the tattoo for effective coverage.
6. Do Tanning Beds Ruin Tattoos?
Tanning beds can ruin tattoos, making them appear faded over time. The UV rays from tanning beds can cause the ink pigment in the skin to break down, making the tattoo appear blurry and faded. To keep your tattoo fresh and vibrant, it’s best to avoid tanning beds altogether.
7. How Can I Speed Up My Tattoo Healing?
To speed up tattoo healing, consider keeping the area clean; wash it twice a day with mild soap and water, then apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare ointment. Keep the area moisturized by applying a light lotion several times a day. Avoid picking or scratching at the tattoo to cause no infection or complications. With proper care, your tattoo should heal in two to four weeks, and once healed, you can safely tan without worry of damaging the ink.
8. How Can I Cover My New Tattoo From The Sun?
The best way to cover a new tattoo from the sun is to keep it out of sunlight during the healing process. Increase coverage by covering the tattoo with a shirt or bandage and apply sunscreen, ideally one that contains mineral crystals, unlike chemical sunscreens, to shield UV rays at the skin’s surface.
9. Does Drinking Water Help Heal A Tattoo?
Yes, drinking plenty of water can help your tattoo heal. Staying hydrated keeps the skin around the tattoo hydrated as well, which may speed up the healing process. It’s also important to keep your tattoo clean and dry, and avoid swimming or soaking in a tub for at least two weeks after getting inked.
10. Can I Put Lotion On My Tattoo?
You can put lotion on your tattoo starting a few days after you get it. Opt to use a light, unscented lotion and apply it sparingly, massaging gently into the skin. Avoid petroleum jelly or products that can trap moisture and possibly lead to infection.
11. Can You Over-Moisturize A Tattoo?
Yes, you can over-moisturize a tattoo, which can lead to the tattoo becoming soft and can cause the ink to spread or bleed. While moisturizing your tattoo is important, especially when it starts to feel dry and is more susceptible to infection, always keep your tattoo clean and dry to give bacteria no chance to grow. If infected, see a doctor immediately.
12. Will One Sunburn Ruin A Tattoo?
While one sunburn may not completely ruin a tattoo, it’s best to avoid sunburn on a new tattoo as it can significantly extend the time needed for the tattoo to fully heal. In extreme conditions, a sunburn can distort the lines and coloring of a tattoo, leading to ink loss and distortion as a result of blistering sunburn.
13. How Long After Getting A Tattoo Can You Go In The Sun?
After getting a tattoo, it’s crucial to wait until it’s completely healed before you go into the sun. New tattoos can fade quite quickly when exposed to sunlight. Generally, it’s best to keep your new tattoo completely protected from the sun for three to four weeks to prevent blistering and fading.
14. Can I Fake Tan 3 Days After Getting A Tattoo?
Fake tanning just 3 days after getting a tattoo is not recommended. You should wait until your tattoo is completely healed before applying any chemicals that fake tans may contain. It’s advised to wait at least one month after getting your tattoo done before applying anything to the area.
15. How Long After A Tattoo Can You Tan In The Sun?
Don’t tan with a new tattoo. In fact, you shouldn’t tan until your tattoo is fully healed, which is well past the scabbing phase. The recommendation for how long this time period is differs based on your tattoo studio’s advice, but common recommendations range from 8 weeks to 3 months.
16. What Happens If The Sun Hits My Tattoo?
When the sun hits your tattoo, any tattoo exposed to the sun is at risk of fading. This risk is at its peak during the healing period, as the nature of the tattooing process leaves the skin sensitive to UV rays. For long term sun protection, it’s key to keeping the lines of your tattoo smooth and defined.
Final Thoughts
In final thoughts on how long after a tattoo can you tan, it’s clear that while getting tattoos is fun, it comes with the responsibility of caring for your new ink.
If you want to know, “can you tan after getting a tattoo” the short answer is no, not immediately. There are several things to consider before heading out into the sun.
To ensure your tattoo’s longevity and health, use lots of sunscreen with a high SPF and consider options that are healthier for both your ink and skin, such as organic self-tanners that are safe and nourishing.
Your tattooed skin will glow, girl, and you’ll thank yourself later for taking the time to care for it properly.