Sun and Tattoos — How UV Fades Tattoos and How to Protect Them

Protect the skin that carries your tattoo. Keep a new tattoo out of direct sun while it heals. Once healed, include the tattoo in your usual sun-protection routine. Moisturiser and sunscreen have different jobs.

While the tattoo is healing

Use shade and suitable clothing that does not rub the area. Do not put sunscreen onto unhealed tattooed skin as a workaround for sun exposure. If a holiday or outdoor activity clashes with healing, plan coverage and discuss it with your artist.

After healing

Cancer Council Australia recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen when UV levels reach 3 or above, together with clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses. Apply and reapply according to the sunscreen label. Read Cancer Council’s sunscreen guidance.

Does Remedy Cream provide sun protection?

No. Ink Nurse Remedy Cream is not sunscreen. Use it for moisturising tattooed skin. Do not mix it into sunscreen or count it toward the sunscreen’s protection.

Can cream restore faded ink?

Moisturiser can improve how dry skin looks and feels, but it does not replace tattoo pigment. If you want to change the appearance of a healed tattoo, discuss options with your artist.

Does a darker tattoo still need protection?

Yes. Protect the skin regardless of the ink colour. No sunscreen blocks all UV, and no aftercare product can promise that a tattoo will never change over time.

Can I use sunscreen if my tattoo is still peeling?

Treat an actively healing tattoo as healing skin. Cover it appropriately and seek advice if you are unsure whether it is ready for your normal skincare routine.

Keep reading: Healing time · Touch-ups · Moisturising

Further reading: EADV tattoo aftercare leaflet and Cancer Council Australia. General education; seek medical advice for a skin reaction.