Skin that has been tattooed should be kept out of the sun until it has healed completely. Your tattoo will remain sensitive to sunlight permanently. Since sunlight may fade the vibrant colors, a tattoo will require some care when sunbathing. Apply sunscreen to protect both your skin and your artwork.
Initial Considerations
You should wait until your new tattoo has healed before exposing it to sunlight. Minimize the delay by learning some simple rules for helping your tattoo to heal. Since infections are the most common problem, the first rule is to find a hygienic, licensed tattooist. Make a preliminary visit. You should see an autoclave for sterilizing the equipment, disposable gloves, needles in plastic pouches and inks in single-use containers.
Early Healing
Aftercare is important for your new tattoo. Your tattooist will cover it in gauze; keep it covered for 24 hours. Once you remove the gauze, treat the tattoo gently. Don't soak it in water, rub or pick at it. If scabs form, let them work their own way loose. Your tattooist will recommend a cream to use as it heals. Wear clothes that won't rub or irritate the tattoo, and keep it out of the sun completely at this stage.
In the Sun
A new layer of skin should form within two weeks. You will then be able to expose your tattoo to some sunlight. Newly tattooed skin is very sensitive to ultraviolet light, so use a sunscreen cream labeled as "sunblock" or with an SPF greater than 30. Try to avoid sustained sunbathing for three months. Your skin will take this long to heal completely, and you will risk both burning your skin and fading your tattoo.
Ongoing Care
Your tattoo will remain sensitive to sunlight permanently. If you work outdoors or sunbathe frequently, it will need constant protection. An SPF 30 sunscreen cream should suffice. Bear in mind that some clothing, such as a white cotton long-sleeve shirt, will let UV light through and risk fading the tattoo's colors.
Warning
It is unwise to get a tattoo if you suffer from some medical problems and skin disorders, especially if your immune system is affected. Ask a doctor if you aren't sure, and always check that your vaccinations are up to date before being tattooed. If a new tattoo becomes red, hot and swollen, it may be infected. See a doctor right away.
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