Tattoos are an excellent way to express yourself, and people love to flaunt their tattoos. When it comes to tanning your tattoo after you have gotten one, there are a few things to consider to make sure that the tattoo remains vibrant and healthy.

How long should you wait before tanning after getting a tattoo?

It depends on a number of factors, including the size and location as well as the healing process of your tattoo. It is generally recommended that you wait for at least two to three weeks before tanning a tattoo in direct sunlight. This gives the skin time to heal, and the tattoo has the chance to properly set.

It’s important to remember that tattoos can take 3 months to heal completely, depending on how the skin of the person is treated and their aftercare regimen. During this period, you should keep the tattoo moisturised, avoid tanning beds or direct sun, and adhere to any aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist.

Too soon exposing a tattoo that is healing to UV rays can damage the skin, cause the tattoo to fade or blur and increase the chance of infection. It’s best to be cautious and wait until your tattoo has fully healed before tanning.

What Happens When You Tan After Getting a Tattoo?

Tattoos are wounds and require time to heal. The skin around and under the tattoo will be more sensitive after getting inked. You can damage your tattoo by exposing it to the sun or tanning bed too soon after you get inked. This may result in discoloration, fading and scarring.

After getting a tattoo, tanning can cause the skin to become dry. This can delay healing.

How can you protect your tattoo when tanning?

You can protect your tattoo if you decide to tan. Here are some tips.

• Apply sunscreen. Use a water-resistant, high-quality sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or greater on your tattoo prior to exposing it in the sun or tanning bed.
• Cover up. Wear long sleeves and hats as protective clothing to shield your tattoos from direct sun.
• Avoid peak sun hour: Avoid tanning between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is at its strongest.
• Breaks: Take frequent breaks and limit your tanning sessions.

The pros and cons of tanning after getting a tattoo

There are pros and cons for tanning after a tattoo. Consider these factors:

PRODUCTS

• You can get a bronzed appearance that will complement your new tattoo.
• You can improve your mood by tanning. It also provides a feeling of relaxation and well being.

CONS

• Tattoos can fade, become discolored, or scarred if you tan.
• The tanning process can cause your skin to dry out and delay the healing process.
• Skin cancer is increased by tanning.

Alternatives to tanning after getting a tattoo

There are several options to consider if you don’t want your tattoo to be damaged by tanning.

• Self-tanners: To achieve a bronzed appearance without exposing the tattoo to UV rays, use a self tanning lotion or spray.
• Use body makeup. Apply a temporary cover-up for tattoos or body make-up to conceal tattoos while tanning.
• You can wait for cooler weather to tan. The sun will be less intense.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE FOR CARE OF YOUR TATTOO WHILE TANNING

This is a guide that will show you how to take care of your tattoo while tanning.

1. Wait two to three weeks to expose your tattoo directly to sunlight or tanning bed.
2. Before tanning, apply a water-resistant, high-quality sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or greater.
3. Protect your tattoos from the sun by wearing long-sleeved clothing and hats.
4. Avoid tanning in the peak hours of sunlight (10am to 4pm) when sun rays are at their strongest.
5. Take frequent breaks and limit your tanning session to 20-30 mins at a stretch.
6. After tanning your tattoo, use a fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent it from drying out and cracking.

Comparison: Tannin Beds vs. Natural Sunlight

Is one option better for tanning after a tattoo? This is a comparison between tanning beds and natural sunlight.

TANNING BED

• Tanning beds emit UV-rays which can fade and damage your tattoo.
• Skin cancer can be increased by tanning beds, which are more intense than sunlight.
• Tanning beds may cause skin damage and premature aging.

Natural Sunlight

• If you do not take the necessary precautions, natural sunlight can damage tattoos.
• Vitamin D from sunlight can improve your mood and immune system.
• Tans can be more evenly distributed when using natural sunlight than with tanning beds.

TIPS TO CARE FOR YOUR TATTOO LONG-TERM

It is important to maintain a tattoo over time to keep it vibrant and healthy. Here are some tips on how to take care of your tattoo.

• Keep it moisturised: Use a fragrance-free lotion to prevent your tattoo from drying out.
• Wear loose clothing to avoid rubbing your tattoo.
• Apply sunscreen to tattoos exposed to the sun.
• Avoid swimming. Avoid swimming and soaking the tattoo in water before it is fully healed.
• Avoid damaging your tattoo by not picking at the scabs.

The Best Products to Use When Tanning After Getting a Tattoo

It is important to use products of high quality that will protect your tattoo from UV rays. Here are the best products you can use:

• Sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and has an SPF 30 or greater.
• Protective clothing: Use long-sleeved tops, hats and sunglasses to protect your tattoos from direct sunlight.
• Self-tanner : You can achieve a bronzed appearance without exposing the tattoo to UV rays.

CONCLUSION

Tattoos are a great way to express yourself, but you need to take care of them properly to maintain their beauty. It is important to wait two to three months after a tattoo before tanning or exposing the ink directly to sunlight. Wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or greater to protect your tattoo. Consider alternatives to tanning, such as body makeup or self-tanner, if you are unsure of the benefits of tanning. Your tattoo will remain vibrant and beautiful with the right care.

FAQs

1. How long does it usually take for a full healing of a tattoo? A tattoo takes two to three weeks to completely heal.

1. Can I tan if I cover my tattoo with a bandage after I get it? It is not recommended that you tan after a tattoo even if it’s covered with a bandage. Wait until your tattoo is fully healed before you expose it to sunlight or tanning bed.

1. Will sunscreen damage my tattoo? As long as you are using a water-resistant, high-quality sunscreen that is specifically designed to protect tattoos, your new tattoo will not be damaged.

1. Can I use tanning oils on my new tattoos? It is not recommended that you use tanning oils on new tattoos. Tanning oil may cause your tattoo to fade and be damaged.

1. Can I get a spray tan after getting a tattoo? After getting a tattoo, it’s best to give yourself at least 2 to 3 weeks to get a spray-tan. Consult your tattoo artist to find out when it is safe to spray tan.