13 Best Sunscreen for Tattoos [August, 2024]

Choosing the best sunscreen for tattoos is essential to protect your body art from fading and maintain its vibrant appearance. A high-quality tattoo sunscreen not only shields your ink from harmful UV rays but also moisturizes the skin, preventing dryness and irritation. When searching for the best sunscreen for tattoos, consider factors such as SPF level, broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and the inclusion of tattoo-friendly ingredients. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top sunscreen options for tattoos available in the U.S., helping you make an informed decision to keep your tattoo looking its best for years to come.

1. Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen

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Mad Rabbit’s Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is an all-natural mineral sunscreen lotion that offers SPF 30 protection. This tattoo fade protection and moisturizer comes in a convenient 100mL tube and features an anti-aging formula.

Key Features

• All-natural mineral sunscreen
• SPF 30 protection
• Tattoo fade protection and moisturizer
• Anti-aging formula

Our Expert Opinion

Mad Rabbit’s Defend Tattoo Sunscreen is an excellent choice for those seeking an all-natural option. The mineral-based formula is gentle on the skin, while the SPF 30 protection and tattoo fade protection help maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy. The added anti-aging benefits make this sunscreen a well-rounded choice for tattoo enthusiasts.

2. Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick

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Devoted Creations offers a tattoo fade protection stick with SPF 50+ UVA-UVB protection. This water-resistant and non-greasy formula contains shea butter for added moisturization and comes in a compact .49oz stick in pink and blue colors.

Key Features

• SPF 50+ UVA-UVB protection
• Water-resistant
• Non-greasy formula
• Contains shea butter for moisturization

Our Expert Opinion

The Devoted Creations Tattoo Fade Protection Stick is perfect for on-the-go tattoo protection. The high SPF 50+ and broad-spectrum UVA-UVB protection ensure your tattoo stays shielded from harmful rays, while the water-resistant and non-greasy formula makes it ideal for outdoor activities. The addition of shea butter helps keep your skin moisturized and your tattoo vibrant.

3. Makra Tattoo Care Sunscreen

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Makra’s Tattoo Care Sunscreen is an SPF 30+ ointment designed specifically for tattoo sun protection. It offers UVA/UVB protection, deeply moisturizes, and protects ink against fading while enhancing colors. This water-resistant formula comes in a 1.35 Oz/40 g container.

Key Features

• SPF 30+ ointment
• UVA/UVB protection
• Deeply moisturizes and protects ink against fading
• Enhances colors
• Water-resistant

Our Expert Opinion

Makra’s Tattoo Care Sunscreen is a fantastic option for those looking for a deeply moisturizing and protective ointment. The SPF 30+ and UVA/UVB protection help safeguard your tattoo from sun damage, while the color-enhancing properties keep your ink looking vibrant. The water-resistant formula ensures long-lasting protection, even during swimming or sweating.

4. INK-EEZE Tattoo Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

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INK-EEZE offers a tattoo sunscreen stick with SPF 50 and ink shield technology. This UVA/UVB blocking formula dries clear, is ozone reef friendly, vegan, and made in the USA. The coconut-scented stick comes in a 0.5oz size.

Key Features

• SPF 50 protection
• Ink shield technology
• UVA/UVB blocking
• Dries clear
• Ozone reef friendly and vegan
• Made in USA
• Coconut scent

Our Expert Opinion

The INK-EEZE Tattoo Sunscreen Stick is a convenient and effective option for tattoo protection. The high SPF 50 and ink shield technology provide superior protection against UV rays and help prevent tattoo fading. The clear-drying formula and coconut scent make it a pleasure to use, while the ozone reef friendly and vegan properties cater to environmentally conscious consumers.

5. CannaSmack Ink Guard SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen & Ink Fade Shield Stick

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CannaSmack’s Ink Guard is an SPF 30 tattoo sunscreen and ink fade shield stick that protects and brightens your tattoos while preventing fading. Infused with hemp seed oil, Omega 3 & 6, and vitamins A, B, D, & E, this cruelty-free product nourishes your skin and tattoo.

Key Features

• SPF 30 protection
• Ink fade shield
• Protects and brightens tattoos
• Infused with hemp seed oil, Omega 3 & 6, and vitamins A, B, D, & E
• Cruelty-free

Our Expert Opinion

CannaSmack’s Ink Guard is a unique tattoo sunscreen that combines protection with nourishment. The SPF 30 and ink fade shield help maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy, while the infusion of hemp seed oil and essential vitamins promote skin health. The cruelty-free aspect makes it a great choice for those who prioritize ethical beauty products.

6. Organic Moisturizing Tattoo Protection

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Melao offers an organic moisturizing tattoo protection sunscreen with SPF 50+ UV protection. This waterproof sunscreen is specifically designed for tattoo care.

Key Features

• Organic moisturizing formula
• SPF 50+ UV protection
• Waterproof
• Designed for tattoo care

Our Expert Opinion

Melao’s organic moisturizing tattoo sunscreen is a unique option for those with sensitive skin or a preference for natural products. The SPF 50+ UV protection ensures your tattoo stays shielded from harmful sun rays, while the moisturizing formula keeps your skin and ink nourished. The waterproof feature is ideal for those who lead active lifestyles or enjoy water activities.

7. Sexymix Tattoo Sunscreen Lotion

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Sexymix presents a tattoo sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 protection that is water-resistant and non-greasy. This broad-spectrum sunscreen protects ink against fading and enhances colors.

Key Features

• SPF 50 protection
• Water-resistant
• Non-greasy formula
• Broad-spectrum protection
• Protects ink against fading
• Enhances colors

Our Expert Opinion

Sexymix’s tattoo sunscreen lotion is a well-rounded option that combines high SPF protection with color enhancement. The water-resistant and non-greasy formula makes it comfortable to wear, while the broad-spectrum protection ensures your tattoo stays safe from both UVA and UVB rays. The ink fade protection and color enhancement properties help maintain your tattoo’s vibrant appearance.

8. Sun Protection SPF50 100ml – tattoo sun protection

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TattooMed offers a sun protection cream with SPF50 in a 100ml size. This tattoo sun protection and color protection cream is designed for tattoo care.

Key Features

• SPF50 protection
• Tattoo sun protection
• Color protection
• Tattoo care cream

Our Expert Opinion

TattooMed’s sun protection cream is a straightforward option for those seeking high SPF tattoo protection. The SPF50 ensures your tattoo stays shielded from the sun’s harmful rays, while the color protection properties help maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy. The tattoo care aspect makes it a convenient all-in-one solution for tattoo enthusiasts.

9. Tattoo Lovers Care Tattoo SPF 50 Sunscreen Mineral Based Deeply Moisturizes & Protects Ink Against Fading Tattoo Fade Protection and Moisturizer Vegan Organic 1.7oz

Tattoo Lovers Care presents an SPF 50 tattoo sunscreen that is mineral-based and vegan organic. This sunscreen deeply moisturizes and protects ink against fading, offering tattoo fade protection and moisturization in a 1.7oz size.

Key Features

• SPF 50 protection
• Mineral-based
• Deeply moisturizes
• Protects ink against fading
• Tattoo fade protection and moisturizer
• Vegan organic formula

Our Expert Opinion

Tattoo Lovers Care’s tattoo sunscreen is an excellent choice for those seeking a mineral-based, vegan organic option. The high SPF 50 protection and ink fade protection help maintain your tattoo’s appearance, while the deep moisturization keeps your skin and tattoo healthy. The vegan organic formula caters to those with ethical beauty preferences.

10. Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick

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Australian Gold offers an SPF 50 tattoo stick in a compact 14 g size.

Key Features

• SPF 50 protection
• Convenient stick format
• Compact 14 g size

Our Expert Opinion

The Australian Gold SPF 50 Tattoo Stick is a simple yet effective option for those seeking a high SPF tattoo sunscreen in a convenient stick format. The compact 14 g size makes it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, ensuring your tattoo stays protected no matter where your day takes you.

11. SPF 50 Tattoo Aftercare Balm

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This SPF 50 tattoo aftercare balm offers all-weather skin protection, moisturization, and healing properties. It is biodegradable, water-resistant, unscented, and made with natural ingredients.

Key Features

• SPF 50 protection
• All-weather skin protection
• Moisturizing and healing
• Biodegradable
• Water-resistant
• Unscented
• Made with natural ingredients

Our Expert Opinion

This tattoo aftercare balm is a comprehensive solution for tattoo protection and care. The high SPF 50 and all-weather skin protection ensure your tattoo stays shielded in various conditions, while the moisturizing and healing properties promote skin and tattoo health. The biodegradable, water-resistant, and natural ingredients make it an eco-friendly and gentle option for tattoo enthusiasts.

12. Day & Night Tattoo Aftercare Lotion Kit

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This day and night tattoo aftercare lotion kit includes an SPF 30+ tattoo sunscreen lotion and a repairing soothing lotion set. The tattoo cream is designed for both new and old tattoo healing, color enhancement, and moisturizing.

Key Features

• SPF 30+ tattoo sunscreen lotion
• Repairing soothing lotion set
• Suitable for new and old tattoos
• Promotes healing, color enhancement, and moisturizing

Our Expert Opinion

This tattoo aftercare lotion kit is a comprehensive solution for round-the-clock tattoo care. The SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion protects your tattoo from sun damage during the day, while the repairing soothing lotion set promotes healing and moisturization at night. The versatility of this kit makes it suitable for both new and old tattoos, ensuring your ink stays vibrant and healthy.

13. BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick

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BLUE LIZARD offers a sensitive mineral sunscreen stick with zinc oxide and SPF 50+ protection. This water-resistant sunscreen provides UVA and UVB protection, is easy to apply, fragrance-free, and comes in a 0.5 Oz size.

Key Features

• SPF 50+ protection
• Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide
• Water-resistant
• UVA and UVB protection
• Easy to apply
• Fragrance-free
• Compact 0.5 Oz size

Our Expert Opinion

BLUE LIZARD’s sensitive mineral sunscreen stick is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or a preference for mineral-based sunscreens. The high SPF 50+ protection and zinc oxide formula provide effective UVA and UVB protection, while the water-resistant properties ensure long-lasting coverage. The fragrance-free and easy-to-apply formula make it a convenient and gentle option for tattoo protection.

14. Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care Bundle Kit

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Mad Rabbit offers a 3-piece tattoo care bundle kit that includes a repair soothing gel, enhance balm, and defend SPF 30 sunscreen. This full coverage tattoo care kit is suitable for both new and current tattoos.

Key Features

• 3-piece bundle kit
• Includes repair soothing gel, enhance balm, and defend SPF 30 sunscreen
• Full coverage tattoo care
• Suitable for new and current tattoos

Our Expert Opinion

The Mad Rabbit Tattoo Care Bundle Kit is a comprehensive solution for tattoo aftercare and protection. The repair soothing gel and enhance balm work together to promote healing and maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy, while the defend SPF 30 sunscreen shields your ink from harmful UV rays. This full coverage kit is perfect for those looking for an all-in-one tattoo care solution.

Comparison of Best Sunscreen for Tattoos in U.S.

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Tattoos

When selecting a sunscreen for your tattoo, consider the following factors:

1. High SPF: Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to ensure adequate protection against UV rays.
2. Broad-spectrum protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection to shield your tattoo from the full spectrum of harmful rays.
3. Water-resistant formula: If you plan on swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen that won’t easily wash off.
4. Gentle ingredients: Avoid sunscreens with harsh chemicals that may irritate your skin or fade your tattoo. Look for products with natural, tattoo-friendly ingredients.

Different Types of Sunscreen for Tattoos

1. Lotion: Sunscreen lotions are easy to apply and provide even coverage. They’re ideal for large tattoos or multiple tattoos on different parts of the body.
2. Stick: Sunscreen sticks are convenient for targeting specific areas, such as small tattoos or hard-to-reach places like the back of the neck.
3. Spray: Spray sunscreens offer quick and easy application, but ensure you apply an adequate amount and rub it in thoroughly for optimal protection.

Guide on Usage, Maintenance, and Care

To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo, follow these usage, maintenance, and care tips:

1. Apply sunscreen generously to your tattoo before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
2. Avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo whenever possible, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
3. Keep your tattoo moisturized with a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion to prevent dryness and fading.
4. Avoid soaking your tattoo in water for prolonged periods, as this can lead to fading and damage.
5. Wear loose, breathable clothing over your tattoo to prevent friction and irritation.
6. Avoid using harsh soaps, scrubs, or exfoliants on your tattoo, as these can cause fading and damage.
7. Touch up your tattoo every few years to maintain its vibrancy and clarity.

FAQs about Best Sunscreen for Tattoos

Q. How often should I apply sunscreen to my tattoo?

Apply sunscreen to your tattoo every time you plan to be in the sun, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

Q. Can I use regular sunscreen on my tattoo?

While regular sunscreen can provide some protection, it’s best to use a sunscreen specifically designed for tattoos. These products often contain ingredients that help preserve the vibrancy and longevity of your ink.

Q. How long after getting a tattoo can I start using sunscreen?

Wait until your tattoo is fully healed before applying sunscreen. This usually takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of your tattoo. During the healing process, keep your tattoo covered and away from direct sunlight.

Q. Do I need to use sunscreen on my tattoo even if it’s not new?

Yes, it’s essential to use sunscreen on your tattoo regardless of its age. UV rays can cause fading and damage to tattoos of any age.

Q. Can I use sunscreen on a tattoo that is still healing?

No, avoid using sunscreen on a tattoo that is still healing. Sunscreen can irritate the healing skin and prolong the healing process. Instead, keep your tattoo covered with loose, breathable clothing.

Conclusion

Investing in the best sunscreen for tattoos is crucial for maintaining the longevity and vibrancy of your body art. By choosing a high-quality, tattoo-specific sunscreen with adequate SPF, broad-spectrum protection, and nourishing ingredients, you can shield your tattoo from harmful UV rays and prevent fading. Remember to apply sunscreen generously, reapply frequently, and follow proper tattoo care guidelines to ensure your ink remains vibrant and beautiful. With the right sunscreen and care routine, you can confidently showcase your tattoo while protecting it from the sun’s damaging effects.