Hey there, tattoo lovers! Summer is officially in full swing, and while that means more time spent outdoors in the sunshine, it also means your tattoos get a lot of sun exposure. Let’s talk about why that matters and how to make sure your artwork stays crisp and vibrant for years to come.

Why Sunscreen Is A Must To Protect Your Tattoo

UV rays — both UVA and UVB — can silently wreak havoc on your artwork. They penetrate deep into the dermis where your tattoo lives and start breaking down pigment molecules. This makes colors fade, lines blur, and UVA also breaks down collagen, leading to wrinkles and saggy skin that can distort your tattoo over time.

You’ll want to be even more careful with fresh tattoos: they are like open wounds and extra vulnerable. Sunburn can cause swelling, blistering, scarring, and ruin your design before it has a chance to fully heal.

Bottom line: Once healed, your tattoo still needs daily SPF. I recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

Moisturize = Tattoo Glow

Keeping skin hydrated helps your tattoo stand out better. Dry, peeling skin dulls every color. A tattoo-friendly moisturizer or skin oil (especially one free of fragrances and harsh ingredients) helps preserve vibrancy, keeps your skin barrier strong, and makes your artwork pop.

Shield It: Clothing & Shade

When possible, cover up your tattoo with UPF clothing, hats, or just stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., if possible — that’s when UV rays are strongest.

Why I Swear by My Face Moisturizer + SPF 30

Personally, I use a face moisturizer with SPF 30 every day. My skin is super sensitive, and this combo keeps my tattooed areas smooth, hydrated, and protected. If you go this route, just be sure to check the ingredient list to avoid potentially harmful chemicals.

Support Your Skin from the Inside Out

Good skin care isn’t just topical; it starts with what you feed your body. Your skin needs certain nutrients to stay healthy, elastic, and strong, which directly impacts how your tattoos look over time. A few important ones to include in your diet (or take as supplements if needed):

Vitamin C: essential for collagen production and skin repair
Vitamin E: protects against oxidative stress and sun damage
Vitamin A: supports cell regeneration
Zinc: important for skin healing and immune function
Omega-3 fatty acids: help keep your skin barrier healthy and reduce inflammation

Hydration also plays a huge role. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin supple and your tattoos looking fresh.

For Inquiries, please feel free to reach out via email: contact@danielmeyertattoo.com

I look forward to working with you on your next story.

Summer Is Here, Sun Is Out — Protect Your Tattoos.

Tattoo Designs for Bob