Sun rays are no doubt not too good for our screen, that's why we put sunscreen on over our skin, to avoid any over exposure to the sun. Whether going for a normal outing or going to the beach for relaxing, the use of sunscreen is important to avoid skin burning or any other bad effects of sun exposure. But, if you've got a tattoo recently, then what to do? Can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo? Can you go in the sun with a new tattoo without using sunscreen?
Let's get an answer to all these questions related to sun exposure, sunscreen on a new tattoo.
Can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo?
Putting sunscreen on newly inked tattoos is not safe as the skin is like an open wound, which has a lot of needles pierced in it. Infection, discomfort, and incomplete healing are all risks associated with applying sunscreen to freshly inked skin.
Putting sunscreen on a new tattoo is like putting it on an open wound, therefore don't do it. Your ink's appearance can be permanently altered or ruined by long-term damage, which is a huge disappointment after you've made the investment.
In order to ensure that the healing process continues indefinitely, it is critical that the healing process be completed.
Can you go in the sun with a new tattoo without using sunscreen?
No, you can't go directly get the new tattoo to sun exposure, as it can make the skin sunburnt & even cause irritation & redness on the skin.
Moreover, you can't put sunscreen on tattooed skin.
Is it bad to put sunscreen on a new tattoo?
Yes, it is bad to put sunscreen on your new tattoo, because it causes the vividness of your new tattoo's pigment and colors can be badly affected when you use sunblock or sunscreen. When it comes to sun damage, colors like orange, pink, yellow, and white are particularly vulnerable. It doesn't matter what colors you choose for your new tattoo; they will all fade if exposed to the sun.
Lastly, and probably most importantly, using sunscreen does not provide miraculous immunity from Bacteria. Bacteria, let's face it, are all around us. If you're using sunscreen, you're probably exposing your wound to locations it shouldn't be. Bacteria thrive in places like tanning beds, swimming pools, and so on.
So firstly, going out in direct sunlight is not a good option if you have got a new tattoo, & then putting sunscreen is obviously not great for the tattoo appearance & your safety.
When your skin is healed, you should use a good type of sunscreen for the tattoo area.
But how much time after getting a tattoo, should you use sunscreen on it?
How soon can you put sunscreen on a new tattoo?
You should wait for at least 2-3 weeks, or until it seems entirely healed visually, we recommend avoiding exposure to direct sunlight and using no sunscreen on the tattoo.
You should avoid direct sunlight for as long as possible after getting a new tattoo since the skin around it is so delicate.
If you must go out, use dark clothes to conceal your tattoo or stay in shady locations.
But keep in mind that, never use any sunscreen in the 2-3 weeks of getting a new tattoo.
However, do not apply these sunscreens directly after getting the tattoo. Use them after 2-3 weeks.
You can even choose a SPF 30 sunscreen, which will not be too strong on the tattoos.
What is the recommended frequency of applying sunscreen to tattoos?
If you want to spend time in the sun, apply sunscreen 15 minutes before you go outdoors to avoid sunburn.
At the absolute least, reapply every two hours. If you've been swimming or sweating a lot, you should reapply more often.
But remember, only use sunscreen after 2-3 weeks of getting the new tattoo. So what should you use during this time to cover the tattoo?
What is the best way to protect a new tattoo from the sun?
As you know, you can't use sunscreen on a new tattoo, but how to protect it from the bad effects of the sun. Firstly, try to avoid any direct exposure to the sun. If you can't avoid going in the sun, wear loose clothes over your tattoo to keep it from being exposed to direct sunlight, as described above.
Keep in mind that fresh tattoos are like open sores. Chemicals and minerals are used in the production of sunscreen. These compounds have the potential to irritate your skin.
If you have a healed tattoo, it is okay to use sunscreen on the area around it.
How to treat a sunburned tattoo?
If by chance, you get your newly tattooed sunburned, then don't panic, you can treat the tattoo. But still do not apply the sunscreen, instead follow the following methods:
The burnt area should be covered with a cold compress.
After that, dab the burnt area with a calming hypoallergenic moisturiser.
Make sure to rehydrate often and keep an eye on your tanned skin.
If you have a fever, see a doctor if you see any swelling around your tattoo, or if you have alternating hot and cold sensations. An infection may be to blame for this.
To decide whether your tattoo requires touch ups from your tattoo artist, you need to wait till it's healed from the burn.
This is how you can treat a sunburned tattoo. It will be better to avoid direct sun exposure or cover the area for just 2-3 weeks, so that your tattoo will look good & your skin will also stay protected.
This was all about the use of sunscreen on a new tattoo. We hope you find the right answers to your queries. Please let us know your thoughts & suggestions in the comments below, if you found this article helpful & informative.