If you have a tattoo, you know how important it is to keep it looking its best. Sun damage can fade and blur the lines of your ink, causing it to lose its vibrancy and detail. That’s where tattoo sunscreen comes in.
Tattoo sunscreen is a specialized type of sunscreen that is formulated to protect your tattoo from fading and sun damage. It’s designed to be gentle on your skin while providing the necessary protection to keep your tattoo looking its best.
When choosing the best tattoo sunscreen, it’s important to consider the SPF level, ingredients, and application method. SPF 30 or higher is recommended to provide adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients are effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Finally, consider the application method – a spray sunscreen may be easier to apply to hard-to-reach areas, while a lotion may be more hydrating for dry skin.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best tattoo sunscreens on the market and help you find the perfect one to keep your ink looking fresh and vibrant.
Best Tattoo Sunscreens
If you have a tattoo, you know how important it is to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. Not only can sun exposure cause your tattoo to fade, but it can also damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. That’s why it’s essential to invest in a high-quality tattoo sunscreen that will provide both UVA and UVB protection. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best tattoo sunscreens on Amazon that will keep your tattoo looking vibrant and your skin healthy.
Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen
If you want to keep your tattoos looking vibrant and protected from the sun, Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is worth considering.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA & UVB rays
- Contains skin-soothing Zinc Oxide and antioxidants like Vitamin C, Carrot Extract, and Rosehip Oil
- Helps protect and reverse the signs of damage caused by environmental stressors
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
- Some users reported a greasy feeling after application
- May leave a white cast on the skin
This daily, all-natural mineral sunscreen is specially formulated to protect your tattoos and skin from sun damage. Its moisturizing and anti-aging formula contains potent antioxidants that help reverse the signs of damage and keep your skin well-supported and shielded from the elements. Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is also soothing and nourishing to dry, irritable skin, making it ideal for all skin types, inked or not.
To get the best results, apply this sunscreen on top of Mad Rabbit Daily Lotion or Tattoo Balm to add extra defensive support to your daily routine. However, some users reported that the product may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin, and it may leave a white cast on the skin. Additionally, some users reported a greasy feeling after application. Despite these minor drawbacks, Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is a preferred tattoo aftercare product by Inked Magazine, making it a product worth considering.
Tattoo Care Sunscreen
Protect your ink and keep your skin moisturized with Tattoo Care Sunscreen.
Pros
- Deeply moisturizes and nourishes skin
- Water and sweat resistant
- Protects tattoo colors from looking faded
Cons
- Greasy and takes time to sink into the skin
- May leave a white cast on the skin
- Expensive compared to other sunscreen options
Tattoo Care Sunscreen is an excellent choice for those who want to protect their tattoos from fading while keeping their skin moisturized. The sunscreen offers a double layer of protection that not only protects the outer layer of the skin but also penetrates deeper into the layer where the tattoo is. This helps to hydrate the skin from the inside and protect the ink against drying, which is the most important factor that makes tattoo colors fade.
The sunscreen is easy to apply, leaves no white cast, and is soaked in quickly. It is ideal for tattoo sun protection, tanning beds, or as microblading aftercare. The sunscreen is made to resist wear off and is water and sweat-resistant. It has a light vanilla-coconut scent that smells like a carefree summer day.
The sunscreen is made from the finest natural ingredients that benefit your skin. Special ingredients include Calendula, Jojoba, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Cocoa butter with added Vitamin E. It is dermatologically tested for safety and is suitable for every skin type and tone. The sunscreen is paraben-free and comes in a tube that contains 1.35 Fl. oz / 40 g, enough for a couple of applications on smaller or medium-sized tattoos.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a sunscreen that deeply moisturizes and protects your tattoo against fading, Tattoo Care Sunscreen is an excellent choice. However, it may be greasy and take time to sink into the skin, and it is more expensive compared to other sunscreen options.
CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen & Ink Fade Shield Stick
Protect your tattoos from fading in the sun with CannaSmack’s Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen & Ink Fade Shield Stick. Infused with premium hemp seed oil, this sunscreen provides hydration and nourishment to your skin that will help brighten and protect your tattoos.
Pros
- Unique photostable UVB hypoallergenic formula
- Paraben-free, gluten-free, sulfate-free, color-free, and fragrance-free
- Easy to use mess-free applicator
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Small size may require frequent reapplication
- May leave a slight white cast on the skin
This sunscreen is perfect for those who want to protect their tattoos from fading in the sun. The unique photostable UVB hypoallergenic formula ensures that your tattoos are protected while the premium hemp seed oil provides much-needed hydration and nourishment to your skin.
The easy to use mess-free applicator is perfect for precise application and the paraben-free, gluten-free, sulfate-free, color-free, and fragrance-free formula ensures that it is safe for all skin types.
However, some users may find that the small size of the stick requires frequent reapplication and it may leave a slight white cast on the skin. Overall, CannaSmack’s Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen & Ink Fade Shield Stick is a great option for those looking to protect their tattoos and keep them looking bright and vibrant.
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
Protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays with EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen. This oil-free sunscreen is perfect for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin types, as it contains Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and an antioxidant to promote healthy-looking skin while reducing dryness and redness. The lightweight, silky consistency blends in effortlessly and leaves no white cast, making it ideal for wearing alone or under makeup.
Pros
- Helps protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays
- Lightweight and silky consistency blends in effortlessly and leaves no white cast
- Contains Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and an antioxidant to promote healthy-looking skin while reducing dryness and redness
Cons
- Expensive compared to other sunscreens
- Not waterproof, so it needs to be reapplied after swimming or sweating
- The pump may leave sunscreen in the container, so you need to pry it open to use all of it
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin types. The sunscreen contains Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and an antioxidant to promote healthy-looking skin while reducing dryness and redness.
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen has a lightweight, silky consistency that blends in effortlessly and leaves no white cast, making it ideal for wearing alone or under makeup. It helps protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, making it perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.
One downside of EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is that it is expensive compared to other sunscreens. It is also not waterproof, so it needs to be reapplied after swimming or sweating. Additionally, the pump may leave sunscreen in the container, so you need to pry it open to use all of it.
Overall, EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a great choice for anyone looking for a non-greasy, lightweight sunscreen that is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin types. It helps protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays while promoting healthy-looking skin.
Sexymix Tattoo Sunscreen Stick
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides ultimate sun protection for your tattoos, Sexymix Tattoo Sunscreen Stick is a great option.
Pros
- The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula shields your skin and tattoo ink from harmful UVA/UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
- Formulated with a water-resistant formula, Sexymix sunscreen stick is perfect for outdoor activities, including swimming and sweating. It’s also safe for tattoo care, ensuring your ink stays vibrant and protected.
- With its portable 0.7 oz (20g) size, our sunscreen stick is easy to carry and reapply on the go. Its mess-free application means no more greasy hands, making it ideal for any outdoor adventure.
Cons
- Reapply every 80 minutes after swimming or sweating, and at least every 2 hours for all other activities.
- The sunscreen stick may be too thick, creating a situation where there’s too much of a barrier for air and absorption wasn’t good either, so putting it on created a breakout of bumps in the area where it was applied.
- The product may not drastically revive your tattoos.
If you want a sunscreen that offers long-lasting defense and is healthy and affordable, Sexymix Tattoo Sunscreen Stick is the perfect solution. The quick-drying, non-greasy formula provides instant protection, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors worry-free.
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care Bundle Kit (3-Piece) Repair Soothing Gel, Enhance Balm & Defend SPF 30 Sunscreen – Full Coverage Tattoo Care Kit for New & Current Tattoos
If you’re looking for a comprehensive tattoo care kit, the Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care Bundle Kit might be a great option for you.
Pros
- The kit contains a soothing gel that can alleviate irritability and itchiness in fresh ink and anywhere on the body in need of relief.
- The tattoo balm can enhance depth, clarity, and contrast for all your body art, while keeping your tattoo healthy and preventing ink discoloration.
- The SPF 30 sunscreen works hard to protect skin and tattoos from the damage caused by exposure to harmful UVA & UVB rays.
Cons
- The kit may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
- The price point may be higher compared to other tattoo care products.
- The kit may not be travel-friendly due to its size.
The Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care Bundle Kit is a great option for those who want a complete tattoo care package. The soothing gel works fast to alleviate irritability and itchiness, while the tattoo balm can enhance depth and clarity of your tattoos. The SPF 30 sunscreen protects your skin and tattoos from harmful UV rays. However, the kit may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin, and the price point may be higher compared to other tattoo care products. Additionally, the size of the kit may not be travel-friendly.
Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick with SPF 50+ UVA-UVB Protection, Water Resistant, Non-Greasy with Shea Butter .49oz (Pink/Blue)
If you are looking for a tattoo sunscreen that will protect your ink from fading and provide excellent UVA and UVB protection, then Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick is a great choice.
Pros
- The SPF 50+ formula provides excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- The water-resistant formula ensures that your tattoo stays protected even when you’re swimming or sweating.
- The non-greasy formula is easy to apply and won’t leave any residue on your skin.
Cons
- The size of the stick may be too small for some users.
- The scent may not be appealing to all users.
- The stick may not last as long as other sunscreens.
Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick is a great choice for anyone looking for a tattoo sunscreen that will protect their ink from fading and provide excellent UVA and UVB protection. The SPF 50+ formula ensures that your tattoo stays protected even when you’re out in the sun for extended periods of time. The water-resistant formula is perfect for those who enjoy swimming or other water-based activities. Additionally, the non-greasy formula makes it easy to apply and won’t leave any residue on your skin.
One potential downside of the Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick is its size. Some users may find that the stick is too small for their needs. Additionally, the scent of the sunscreen may not be appealing to all users. Lastly, the stick may not last as long as other sunscreens, so you may need to purchase additional sticks if you plan on using it frequently.
Overall, if you are looking for a tattoo sunscreen that will protect your ink from fading and provide excellent UVA and UVB protection, then Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick is a great choice.
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Bottle Technology – Fragrance Free, 5 oz SPF 50+ 5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that will protect your tattoo and sensitive skin, then BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a great choice.
Pros
- Protects the reef: BLUE LIZARD Sensitive sunscreen contains no oxybenzone or Octinoxate, making it safe for the coral reef.
- Mineral sunscreen: The mineral active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Sweat and water-resistant: This sunscreen is resistant to sweat and water for up to 80 minutes, twice as long as the Original Sensitive formula.
Cons
- Thick consistency: Some users may find the sunscreen to be thicker than other sunscreens they have used in the past.
- Leaves a white cast: Due to the mineral ingredients, this sunscreen may leave a white cast on the skin.
- May require reapplication: Some users have reported needing to reapply the sunscreen after swimming or sweating heavily.
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a great option for those who want to protect their tattoos and the environment. The mineral formula provides great protection against harmful UV rays without the use of potentially irritating chemical active ingredients. The reef-safe formula also means you can enjoy the sun without harming the coral reef.
The sunscreen is sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, some users may find the sunscreen to be thicker than other sunscreens they have used in the past, and it may leave a white cast on the skin.
Overall, if you’re looking for a sunscreen that is safe for the environment, provides great protection, and is suitable for sensitive skin, BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.
Sunscreen Stick, Sexymix SPF 50 Water-Resistant Tattoo Aftercare Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, 2 Packs 0.7 oz with Zinc Oxide Hands-Free Application Travel Mineral Sunscreen Stick Tattoo Sunscreen Stick
Protect your skin and tattoos with Sexymix SPF50 Mineral Sunscreen Stick, specially formulated to provide broad-spectrum defense against UVA and UVB rays. This waterproof and tattoo-friendly sunscreen stick is perfect for outdoor activities, ensuring your ink stays vibrant and your skin stays protected. With a mess-free design and lasting defense, this natural sunscreen stick offers excellent value for your skincare regimen.
Pros
- Superior protection against UVA and UVB rays
- Water-resistant and tattoo-friendly
- Portable and easy to carry
Cons
- May need to reapply frequently for consistent protection
- Small size may not last long with frequent use
- May leave a slight white cast on skin
This sunscreen stick is engineered to resist water, making it perfect for swimming and outdoor activities. Its gentle formula is suitable for tattoo aftercare, ensuring your ink stays vibrant. The compact and easy-to-carry design makes it perfect for on-the-go application, and the mess-free design ensures hassle-free reapplication.
Reapply every 80 minutes after swimming or sweating, and at least every 2 hours for consistent protection. The non-greasy, quick-absorbing formula forms a protective barrier without leaving residue. Crafted with safe and effective natural ingredients, Sexymix sunscreen stick offers excellent value for your skincare regimen.
In summary, if you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides superior protection for your skin and tattoos, the Sexymix SPF50 Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a great choice. Its waterproof and tattoo-friendly formula makes it perfect for outdoor activities, and its mess-free design ensures hassle-free reapplication. However, it may need to be reapplied frequently for consistent protection, and the small size may not last long with frequent use.
Coral Safe SPF 50 Tattoo Aftercare Balm
If you’re looking for a tattoo sunscreen that will protect your ink and moisturize your skin, Coral Safe SPF 50 Tattoo Aftercare Balm is worth considering.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Biodegradable
- Water-resistant
Cons
- May leave a chalky film on skin
- Some users found it to be an average product
- May not be suitable for all skin types
This unscented balm is specially designed to protect your tattoos from the sun’s harmful rays while keeping your skin moisturized. It’s made with natural ingredients and is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice. The balm is also water-resistant, so you can enjoy swimming and other water activities without worrying about your tattoos fading.
One potential downside is that some users have reported that the balm leaves a chalky film on their skin. Additionally, some users have found the product to be average and not particularly special. Finally, as with any skincare product, it may not be suitable for all skin types.
Overall, if you’re looking for a natural, biodegradable tattoo sunscreen that will protect your ink and moisturize your skin, Coral Safe SPF 50 Tattoo Aftercare Balm is a solid choice.
Tattoo Lovers Care Tattoo SPF 50 Sunscreen
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that will protect your tattoos from the sun’s harmful rays, Tattoo Lovers Care Tattoo SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option.
Pros
- Creates an impermeable shield against harmful UV rays
- Provides deep moisturization to maintain optimal tattoo vibrancy
- Features fade-defying technology to combat elements that contribute to tattoo fading
Cons
- May leave a slightly greasy residue on the skin
- Some users may not like the scent of the sunscreen
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
This mineral-based sunscreen is specially formulated for tattoo enthusiasts, creating an impermeable shield against harmful UV rays, preventing premature fading and discoloration of your prized body art. In addition to providing protection, it also delivers deep moisturization. The unique blend of organic, vegan ingredients nourishes your skin, promoting a supple, hydrated canvas for your ink.
Tattoo Lovers Care Tattoo SPF 50 Sunscreen also features fade-defying technology, designed to combat the elements that contribute to tattoo fading. This sunscreen’s advanced formula acts as a formidable barrier, allowing you to confidently showcase your ink under the sun’s rays.
This sunscreen comes in a convenient 1.7oz package, making it your ideal on-the-go companion. Slip it into your bag or pocket, ensuring that you can indulge in sun-soaked activities without compromising on tattoo protection. Trust in the lasting results of this meticulously crafted formula as you embark on outdoor adventures, confident that your tattoos are shielded by the best in sun care innovation.
Overall, Tattoo Lovers Care Tattoo SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great choice for those looking to protect their tattoos from the sun’s damaging effects. With its deep moisturization and fade-defying technology, you can be confident that your tattoos will maintain their vibrant colors and sharp details for years to come.
Defend Tattoo Sunscreen
Protect your tattoo and your skin from harmful UV rays with Defend Tattoo Sunscreen.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients like Aloe Vera, Calendula, and Rose.
- Suitable for all skin types and tones.
- Prevents tattoo colors from fading and cracking.
Cons
- Does not list active ingredients.
- Some reviewers found it to be just like any other sunscreen.
- Some reviewers did not like the scent.
Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is a natural and safe option for tattoo care. Its specialist ingredients deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, while preventing tattoo colors from fading and cracking. This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and tones, and protects the skin from damaging environmental stressors like UV rays.
While some reviewers found it to be just like any other sunscreen, others loved the lightweight and non-greasy formula. However, some reviewers did not like the scent and the fact that it does not list active ingredients.
Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and effective sunscreen for your tattoo, Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is worth considering.
TattooMed Sun Protection SPF50 100ml
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that protects your tattoo and keeps its color intact, TattooMed Sun Protection SPF50 100ml is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Provides excellent sun protection for tattoos
- Prevents fading and discoloration
- Easy to apply and lightweight
Cons
- Leaves a white residue on the skin
- May rub off easily
- A bit pricey for the size
This sunscreen is specially designed to protect tattoos from the harmful effects of the sun. It has SPF50, which means it provides high-level protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula also includes ingredients that help prevent fading and discoloration of tattoos, making it a great choice for those who want to keep their ink looking vibrant.
Applying the sunscreen is easy and hassle-free. The lightweight formula is absorbed quickly by the skin, and it doesn’t leave a greasy or sticky feeling. However, some users have reported that it leaves a white residue on the skin, which may not be suitable for all skin tones. Additionally, it may rub off easily, so you may need to reapply it frequently.
Overall, TattooMed Sun Protection SPF50 100ml is a good choice for those who want to protect their tattoos from the sun. While it may have some drawbacks, its benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best tattoo sunscreen, there are a few key features you should look for to ensure that you are getting a product that will provide adequate protection for your tattoo. Here are some things to consider:
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
The SPF rating of a sunscreen is a measure of how well it protects against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and skin damage. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which will block 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPF ratings provide only slightly more protection, so don’t be fooled into thinking that a sunscreen with an SPF of 100 is significantly better than one with an SPF of 30.
Broad Spectrum Protection
In addition to SPF, you should also look for a sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection. This means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for skin aging and can also contribute to skin cancer, so it’s important to choose a sunscreen that blocks both types of rays.
Water Resistance
If you plan on swimming or sweating while wearing your sunscreen, look for a product that is water-resistant. This means that it will stay on your skin for a certain amount of time even when exposed to water. Keep in mind that no sunscreen is completely waterproof, so you will still need to reapply after swimming or sweating.
Non-Comedogenic
If you have acne-prone skin or are prone to breakouts, look for a sunscreen that is labeled as non-comedogenic. This means that it won’t clog your pores or contribute to acne.
Fragrance-Free
If you have sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen that is fragrance-free. Fragrances can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions in some people.
By considering these features, you can choose a tattoo sunscreen that will provide the protection your tattoo needs to stay vibrant and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated sunscreens for protecting tattoos in 2024?
In 2024, there are several sunscreens that are highly recommended for protecting tattoos. These include brands such as Neutrogena, Coppertone, and Banana Boat. It is important to choose a sunscreen that is specifically designed for tattoo protection and has a high SPF rating.
How does mineral sunscreen compare to chemical sunscreen for tattoo care?
Mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are often preferred for tattoo care because they are less likely to cause skin irritation. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients that can be harsh on freshly inked skin. However, both types of sunscreen can provide effective protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
What level of SPF is recommended for safeguarding new tattoos from the sun?
Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for safeguarding new tattoos from the sun. This level of SPF provides adequate protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Are there specific sunscreen sticks formulated for tattoo protection?
Yes, there are specific sunscreen sticks that are formulated for tattoo protection. These sticks are designed to be easy to apply and provide targeted protection for tattooed areas.
Can freshly inked tattoos be safely covered with sunscreen, and if so, when?
Freshly inked tattoos can be safely covered with sunscreen once the skin has fully healed. This typically takes about 2-4 weeks. It is important to avoid applying sunscreen to any open wounds or scabs.
Why might tattoo-specific sunscreens be preferable to regular sunscreens?
Tattoo-specific sunscreens are formulated with ingredients that are less likely to cause skin irritation or damage to the tattoo. They are also designed to provide targeted protection for tattooed areas, which can be difficult to achieve with regular sunscreens. Additionally, tattoo-specific sunscreens often have a higher SPF rating, which provides better protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
