As a tattoo artist, I have been asked countless times by my clients about the best way to protect their tattoos from the sun. With the increasing popularity of tattoos, it is crucial for people to understand the importance of SPF in maintaining the vibrancy and longevity of their ink. In this guide, I will share my expert knowledge on how to properly use SPF on tattoos. Before we dive into the specifics of using SPF on tattoos, let's first understand what SPF actually is.
SPF
stands for Sun Protection Factor and it measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sunburns.The higher the SPF number, the longer you can stay in the sun without getting burned. However, it is essential to note that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays and not UVA rays, which are responsible for causing skin aging and wrinkles. This is why it is crucial to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Tattoos are essentially wounds on your skin that have been filled with ink. When exposed to the sun, the UV rays can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to fading and distortion of the tattoo. This is especially true for colored tattoos, as UV rays can break down the pigments and cause them to fade. This is where SPF comes in.
By applying sunscreen with a high SPF, you are creating a barrier between your tattoo and the harmful UV rays. This not only helps to prevent fading, but it also protects your skin from potential sun damage. When it comes to choosing the right SPF for your tattoo, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF, ideally 30 or higher. This will provide adequate protection for your tattoo. Secondly, look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection.
This will ensure that your tattoo is protected from both UVB and UVA rays. Lastly, consider the type of sunscreen you are using. Cream or lotion-based sunscreens tend to be more effective than spray or powder sunscreens. This is because they provide better coverage and are less likely to be rubbed off. Now that you have chosen the right SPF for your tattoo, it is crucial to know how to apply it properly. Here are some tips:
- Cleanse: Before applying sunscreen, make sure to cleanse the area around your tattoo with a gentle soap and water.
This will remove any dirt or oils that may prevent the sunscreen from properly adhering to your skin.
- Apply generously: Don't be stingy with your sunscreen application. Make sure to apply a generous amount and spread it evenly over your tattoo.
- Reapply frequently: Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. This is important to maintain the effectiveness of the SPF.
- Avoid rubbing: When reapplying sunscreen, avoid rubbing it directly on your tattoo. Instead, gently pat it on to avoid rubbing off any ink.
- Don't forget the rest of your body: While it is crucial to protect your tattoo, don't forget to apply sunscreen to the rest of your body as well.
This will ensure that your skin is protected from the sun's harmful rays.
- Avoid direct sunlight: If possible, try to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10 am - 4 pm). This is when the sun's rays are the strongest and can cause the most damage to your tattoo.
- Cover up: If you know you will be spending a lot of time in the sun, consider covering up your tattoo with clothing or a bandage. This will provide an extra layer of protection.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out in the sun.
Remember to also take other precautions such as avoiding direct sunlight and staying hydrated for optimal tattoo protection. So next time you're heading out into the sun, don't forget to slather on some SPF and protect your precious ink!.
