Did you know the sun can actually fade a tattoo? Not to mention, tattooed skin is no different than any other skin, which means it’s not exempt from sun protection to protect against signs of aging and skin cancer, too. “Tattoos lighten over time when exposed to UV rays, and if they’re not protected, the skin is just as susceptible to sunburns, and burns can lead to scarring and further issues,” says NJ dermatologist Purvisha Patel, MD. “I recommend using a sunscreen stick with zinc or titanium oxide, which are physical blockers of UV rays.”
Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill agrees: “The most vital sunscreens are mineral sunscreens,” she says. “One of the leading causes of wrinkling and breaking down of elastin fibers and collagen is UV exposure. To prevent the skin from making pigment on top of your tattoo, you must protect your skin from visible light such as light bulbs, fluorescent lights and UV rays. These lights and UV rays can stimulate melanin synthesis, changing the shade or hue of tattoos.” These are five top options to consider, depending on your skin type and lifestyle.
