Sun Exposure & Tattoo Healing: A Comprehensive Guide

Tattoos are more popular than ever. Along with this form of self-expression however, comes the responsibility of caring for your body art. Your new tattoo must be allowed to properly heal before sun exposure.

Allow At Least a Few Weeks

• According to the Mayoclinic.com, you should avoid exposing a new tattoo to the sun for "at least a few weeks."

Use Sunscreen Regularly

• If your tattoo is in an area that will be regularly exposed to the sun, WebMD recommends following up with regular use of sunscreen even after it heals. This will help prevent fading.

Keep It Covered

• If you can't stay out of the sun, at least keep your tattoo covered. Use clothing or a cloth to cover large areas, or a bandage to cover smaller ones. Remember that being inside a car on a sunny day constitutes sun exposure as well.