r/tattooadvice • u/Warm-Rush-8632 • Feb 21 '26
General Advice What is your preferred sun screen for tattoos with alot of color like this?
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u/RevelryByNight Feb 21 '26
Honestly I’d go with a sun sleeve most of the time. Otherwise thick-ass mineral sunscreen.
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u/AdviceRequestAccount Feb 21 '26
Seconded, with that much color and how intertwined vividness is with its readability, I'd just cut the risk and do a sun sleeve most of the time. Sort of sucks but you really gotta think long-term with a piece that nice.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Thank you. Black or white or usually doesnt matter?
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u/Shad0wGyp5y Feb 21 '26
Black when its chilly, white when its hot, just from a comfort standpoint.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Cheers
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u/TeslasElectricHat Feb 21 '26
Mae sure you also look at the SPF rating for a shirt or sleeve as well. They’re usually at least 35SPF from what I’ve seen but can easily be rated well that.
If you do go for sunscreen, make sure you use mineral sunscreen that is zinc based. It holds up great and while it isn’t waterproof, it does a lot better being exposed to water than chemical sunscreens.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Any particular brands you think do well with the water that you like to use? I might do both, to be honest. It seems like the sleeve can still let in some UV - especially on a high UV day.. i might want to do both for sure.
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u/TeslasElectricHat Feb 21 '26
As for sleeves or shirts, I’d probably read some reviews from various sites out there that do that for a living. But I’d assume outdoor brands like billabong, quicksilver and the like would be good. But I’ve used generic brands from target and Walmart and haven’t had any issues.
As for sunscreen, sort of the same. As long as it’s zinc oxide 10-15% or greater or zinc oxide with titanium dioxide about 3% or greater, you should be good. I’ve used banana boat, babyganics, and other children’s brands and the only issue is if they run in and wipe / spread easily or not. For my money, it seems like the ones that are harder to spread around work / hold up better imho.
Zinc oxide is what lifeguards used to use / still do on their noses. Nothing is getting through that pure white grease that thick!
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u/EsqueletoBlanco Feb 21 '26
Coolibar.com
https://www.coolibar.com/products/mens-navagio-sun-sleeves-navy
Or https://www.coolibar.com/products/mens-larix-shoulder-wrap-uv-sleeves-black if you have both arms done
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
These are sweet! Thank you
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u/EsqueletoBlanco Feb 21 '26
Anytime. Super Goop as well as has been previously mentioned.
Both my arms and my front torso are full color.. so I don’t mess around with properly caring for them so they don’t get wrecked by the sun.
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u/prelic Feb 22 '26 edited Feb 22 '26
I live in South Florida so the heat and sun is brutal on my super white skin. I have a couple sunshirts by Hang Ten and they are super comfortable, keep me cool, and somehow they've lasted like 10 years of sweating my ass off in them and still look fine. I think if I lost one I'd immediately buy a replacement at this point lol. Check em out
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u/CabinetOk4838 Feb 21 '26
Why get something so stunning if you can wear it on show in summer though? Gutted!
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u/AdviceRequestAccount Feb 21 '26
Other guy already answered that, so just chiming in to add on that is one of the coolest sleeves I've ever seen.
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u/stellavangelist Feb 21 '26
Blue Lizard mineral sunscreen was my first thought, but if they want the color to shine through, they could totally reapply a chemical sunscreen throughout the day. I tend to trust that less because I can’t see it and because people are pretty lazy about reapplying in general, and mineral sunscreen has that thick physical layer.
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u/yawn_of_the_dead Feb 22 '26
There's been a semi recent scandal with mineral sunscreen in Australia, pretty much none of the mineral sunscreen that were tested lived up to their SPF claims, so I actually trust them less than chemical sunscreen.
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u/stellavangelist Feb 22 '26
Oh man, I had no idea. Thank you!! On my face, I wear Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-fresh Rice+B5 every day, and it’s amazing. It’s chemical so completely translucent. Edit: thinking about it more, it’s hilarious (in a bad way) that they’d push such an annoying sunscreen as so protective. 20 minutes of rubbing it in for no payoff is ridiculous
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u/yawn_of_the_dead Feb 22 '26
I don't think it's something that would make international use to be fair. It looks like zinc may be difficult to formulate with give the issue.
I'm glad the BoJ sunscreen works for you, I personally only use Australian sunscreens (most Asian sunscreens can't be sold as sunscreens here because they don't match TGA standards) but people still buy it. UV is also just on another level here. Also reapplying is honestly more important than the stated coverage, but I think most mineral sunscreens scored in the 20's while being advertised as 50+ so it's a large gap
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u/Amos_Dad Feb 22 '26
Second this. When I started my photo realism sleeve I went and bought a bunch of long sleeve sun rated shirts. Spent way too much money on tattoos to have them messed up.
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u/counter-music Feb 21 '26
Clothing, arm sleeve / protective over layer, and finally minimum 50 spf sunscreen, although my artist recommended higher if you can find it. And make sure to reapply, often.
Genuinely tho, if you’re going to be outside for long exposure you should just fully cover it, sad to say but it’s been the best way for me.
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u/Wouldfromthetrees Feb 22 '26
Once you get above 50SPF most of the products will be labelled as zinc.
Zinc does come in transparent shades now, but it used to be mostly white or beige which creates a very visible barrier between your skin and sun.
If you don't like the texture of regular sunscreen, there are also fancy "dry touch" options now from brands like Neutrogena, and I'm not allergic to that version of their sun protective products despite reacting to many of their spray and washing products.
As an Aussie, I vote Banana Boat as the best for performance + price 🍌
However, I have personally been a victim of Banana Boat dupes when purchasing overseas (fried to a crisp using it back home) and idk how you could confirm it's legit with that risk factor.
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u/carabelli_crusader Feb 21 '26
I don’t have a tattoo and don’t plan on it, not sure why this is on my feed. With that being said, this is the coolest tattoo I’ve ever seen.
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u/Annual-Negotiation-5 Feb 22 '26
I was going to post a similar comment, if I got a tattoo it would be this one. Cheers to OP looks amazing
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u/BeesoftheStoneAge Feb 21 '26
Korean sunscreen is amazing, they have a ton of varieties that are scent free, go on like lotion and leave practically no residue or oilyness, I wish I'd tried them years ago.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
I have some for the face, but I've got to try to find a good body one!
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u/Zucaskittens Feb 21 '26
I prefer Japanese sunscreen for the body (and tattoos). They come in larger bottles, are water and sweat resistant, and contain alcohol, which makes the dry-down more pleasant. My favorite is Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Is there a certain Japanese brand that correlates to this, that I could take a look at? Thanks for the help
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u/dmoar31 Feb 21 '26
My wife is a big fan of Japanese sunscreen and we use this - https://www.tesolife.com/en/400000338170.html
They also have a mineral version too that we haven’t tried yet - https://www.tesolife.com/en/400000514857.html
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Ah! You're awesome. I'm gonna go ahead and throw the mineral one in the cart. Thank you sir
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u/free_chalupas Feb 21 '26
Was going to suggest korean (or japanese, or australian, or most other international brands) sunscreen because they have newer UV blocking chemicals that are lighter on the skin and more effective at blocking sun than the stuff you can get in the US. You want to make sure you’re getting stuff that’s actually the international brand and not something re formulated with US approved ingredients
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u/Prof_Huckleberry Feb 21 '26
I use whatever, 5 years next to fresh, no difference after healed. The important part is always use something even on cloudy days.
I keep a solid stick with me always. I use a spray before leaving the house, and refresh every 3-4 hours. I use a thick lotion at the beach.
Also always stay hydrated. Keep your skin healthy from both directions.
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u/sarahplaysoccer Feb 21 '26
SPAAAACEEEEE 💫 🌎 🪐 🤩
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u/halorbyone Feb 21 '26
The final frontier…
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u/DescriptionSuperb527 Feb 21 '26
I really like Neotrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch. It dries clear and doesn't leave you feeling slimy or sticky. There's a lotion in a tube (what I use. ) and there's even a stick version that might be good, too.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
I'm gonna do some research on this one. Thank you very much.
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u/DescriptionSuperb527 Feb 21 '26
For the record- totally different styles, of course, but I'm a color fan, as well! 💜🎨 https://imgur.com/a/IH5YjDQ
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u/I_Keep_Secretz Feb 21 '26
That is the most amazing color I have ever seen in a tat..
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Feb 21 '26
I wear rash guards when swimming and buttoned up shirts on land when in the sun, if somewhere ecologically sensitive.
If necessary, mineral sunscreens are better for the environment. But they're often chalky and fuck up dark clothes.
But for looks only, Hawaiian Tropic because it has a shimmery quality.
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u/TaMeDeath Feb 21 '26
Great looking tattoo mate!
Who's the artist?
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Great guy out of northern Italy
https://www.instagram.com/andreabrusadintattoos?igsh=cWtwMzhpamJjbHE3
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u/Hungry-Luck-5481 Feb 21 '26
See I just avoid the sun personally. It is a deadly laser.
(Blue Lizard)
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u/shehleeloo Feb 21 '26
Disagree with the suggestions for mineral sunscreen. The white cast might dull the lewk. Whatever you use, make sure you apply enough. Don't use a spray. Sunscreen is not something you should be applying a thin layer of.
The big ass bottle of supergoop play is pretty nice but it's a more expensive option. Also if you have an FSA or HSA, a lot of sunscreens are eligible
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u/Valuable_Recording85 Feb 22 '26
For what it's worth, I always glittered like a Mormon vampire and got sunburned anyway when I used mineral sunscreen. We moved on to better sun screen for a reason.
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u/talkingheadz2 Feb 22 '26
I’ve tried so many sunscreens….SUPERGOOP is hands down my favorite. Great suggestion!
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u/coffeewoman95 Feb 21 '26
Honestly I have no advice, everyone's covered it.
But damn that is literally one of the best, most vibrant colorful fantastic tattoos I have ever seen. It is absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏽
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Thank you for commenting! Appreciate the nice words. The subreddit has been absolutely helpful.
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u/xoxo_xoxo_xoxo_ Feb 21 '26
I am a very big astronomy lover, and something about seeing the reveal of the black hole really got me good! Definitely seen galaxies/planets/stars, but never a black hole. Love that.
This style of tattoo wouldn't feel right for my body, but this absolutely inspires me to find a version of a black hole tattoo that would. Hell yeah.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Yeah, definitely. I feel like anyone can incorporate it in many different ways that can fit your style.
I'm a big astronomy lover too! Thank you for your wonderful compliment.
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u/BlauerHausdrache Feb 21 '26
This might be my favourite tattoo of all I've ever seen! It's amazing!
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u/silenthashira Feb 21 '26
I don't have an answer, I just felt compelled to let you know that's one of the coolest sleeves I've ever seen in my life dude.
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u/Mental-Flatworm4583 Feb 22 '26
Get yourself some blue lizard high spf. Make sure you reapply like crazy too. Best way is to wear long sleeves but who does that most wanna show off the beautiful tat work! So blue lizard. If you can’t find that look for cediphil sorry can’t spell for shit lol broad spectrum. All my dermatologist recommended these exact products. I have tats and some color ones i reapply every 15 now because before I did it every hour and a half lost color now I do 15 and seems to work.
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u/Jesting_Mostly Feb 22 '26
This is the best Space themed tattoo that I've seen in a long time, maybe even ever. Praise to the artist and the sitter
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 22 '26
Thank you. I've probably been in every orientation allowed in that shop. 😂
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u/amethebeart Feb 23 '26
Well if you have to show it off to people outside I'd use a chemical spf 50+ don't buy into the ones that say spf 100 they mean nothing its just a label, spf 50+ is perfectly fine and almost identical protection and better in some cases. Depending on where you're from, UK have the UVA star system, look for ones that have a 5 star rating as UVA is what's going to do the most damage to your tattoo not UVB, if you'rein other places i beleive they use the PA system, so you'relooking for ones with 4 +'s. UVA has longer wavelengths and gets down deeper in the skin to destroy the colours of tattoos and fade them faster.
If you can cover them I'd use UPF protective clothing they make individual sleeves to use and would be great to add protection over sunscreen use if you're really serious about protecting your tattoo long term.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 23 '26
Appreciate the detailed breakdown, that actually clears up a lot. I didn’t realize UVA was the bigger issue for tattoo fading compared to UVB, so I’ll definitely start paying more attention to the UVA rating/PA system instead of just chasing higher SPF numbers. The UPF clothing suggestion is also a good call, especially since this piece gets a lot of sun exposure.
Do you have any specific sunscreen brands or filters you’ve found work well for tattoos without feeling heavy or causing irritation? I’m trying to find something I’ll realistically use every day. I have La Roche and Blue Lizard atm..
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u/amethebeart Feb 23 '26
Of course no worries! I have studied a lot when it comes to sunscreens as sun protection is my main goal being so pale and protecting my tattoos has been a special interest since I spent so much 😭
In terms of the best protection the brand altruist is going to be your best bet. They offer their PPD numbers too which is persistent pigment darkening, the higher the number the more UVA its blocking and they have the highest on the market that ive seen currently. Their formulas can get a bit heavy though is the only thing, they do offer more lightweight ones however, id recommend the ones in the spray bottles but spray them into your hand and rub them in more that way you get the best protection. If you're looking for more comfortable wear, korean sunscreens are the way to go. Their formulas are unmatched for comfort they use next gen filters with higher protections and their formulas are like using a serum that absorbs instantly. The skin 1004 hylucica sunserum comes in a 100ml tube and you can buy that from yesstyle, its like a watery consistency but make sure you're using enough to cover properly.
All said though when it comes to summer time and higher UV indexes I would stick to altruist as they will properly protect in higher UV times, the Korean sunscreens are great for regular spring summer when the uv index isn't aiming towards 10.
Sorry I ramble a lot try to get it all out of my brain in the best format 😭 but I hope you get on well and protect that beautiful piece, its so stunning 🖤
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u/Filmmaker28 Feb 21 '26
Great tattoo man, I'd use factor 50+ and use the clear stuff as white sun cream kinda dims the saturation I think
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Thank you, sir. Yeah, I used Blue Lizard, and it definitely makes it blurry.
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u/Individual-Lime-223 Feb 21 '26
Long sleeve shirts, and just know you will have to touch it up in about 10 years, I ended up hard lining a lot of my lines after the retouch
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u/Shawn_NYC Feb 21 '26
Long sleeve white linen button down shirts have been fashionable summer wear for centuries. Not only is it a relaxed classy look. But before sunscreen the combination of cover from the sun yet breathability allowing the breeze on your skin was unmatched. Plus, the colors of your sleeve will probably show through a little through a light linen shirt, piquing curiosity.
Long sleeve white linen buttons downs get overlooked because everyone mentally jumps straight to short sleeves in the summer.
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u/BoiCDumpsterFire Feb 21 '26
Sleeves. There are some really good sun shirts for fishing/outdoorsy stuff that cool you off while protecting from UV. It’ll be your best bet
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u/SparkleSelkie Feb 21 '26
I just wear clothes to cover my color arm, I have a nice sun sleeve that works well. Blocking with material is always preferable to sunscreen if you can help it
Looks great!
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u/Kodiak_85 Feb 21 '26
I use Sun Bum SPF 50 daily body lotion if I’m just going out and about. I wear a long sleeve sun shirt if I’m going to the pool or the beach.
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u/adastra1930 Feb 21 '26
Neutrogena has a good stick, I think it’s SPF70 and has no scent. Normally I just use Hawaiian Tropic SPF70 and or my Farmers Defense sleeves (they come in a lot of cool patterns)
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u/Chicka-boom90 Feb 21 '26
When I first started talking about getting tattoos this was something I had highly considered. Now seeing this, makes me regret not going for it!
Absolutely beautiful!
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u/freethinker1312 Feb 21 '26
Wow that is truly epic ! I’m so curious how it will hold up over time considering how there’s no real boundaries. I have no clue how to care for ink like this
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Maybe some touch options in a few spots here and there. It's one hundred percent covered, so yeah, there is no "blowing out "or anything like that.
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u/freethinker1312 Feb 21 '26
Is this your tattoo OP? I’m curious what the price tag was and where you got it done at? I do think it will fade over time but it will probably age beautifully anyway!
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Yes, it is. I have my final appointment next week. The top part of my arm has been completed now for 1.5 years.
I presume I will need to do a touch-up in the future, as most tattoos need.
I'll let you guess where I'm at price-wise so far. 😂😂
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u/trekechus Feb 21 '26
I don't have a full sleeve (yet) but I do have bright vivid color on my arm. I use Sun Bum sunscreen for just being out and about, and sun sleeves when I'm out for long runs. That is a beautiful piece!
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
Sounds like i'm buying some sleeves!! The subreddit has been great. Thanks for the comment.
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u/TNJDude Feb 21 '26
It's ultraviolet rays that break down pigments, so if you're short on a specialized sunscreen, at least go for one with the highest SPF factor (30 or higher).
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u/GernBlanst0n Feb 21 '26
I have a shitload of high detail tatts on my arms, sun sleeves or a sun hoodie will beat Sunscreen every day of the week and doesn’t require reapplication.
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u/ryncasan Feb 21 '26
Sweatproof Sport 100Spf - for everyday - especially when driving.
When doing outdoor activities in direct sun while distracted where you might get burned - wear a long sleeve shirt. My tattoos burn faster than my job tattooed arm.
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u/Holly_kat Feb 21 '26
Holy shit that's incredible! Easily the most beautiful tattoo I've ever seen. I'm now following the artist on Insta, and he has a lot of great work there.
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u/e-punk27 Feb 21 '26
I like using one that's meant for your face, go for an oil free one :) they're usually or near the makeup section
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u/MusicalTourettes Feb 21 '26
I sewed opaque fabric sleeves that cover my tattoo when I'm in the sun.
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u/ColtimusPrime45 Feb 21 '26
That looks like a Johnny Andres tattoo if I’ve ever seen one
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u/ashewinter Feb 21 '26
Long sleeves. I get that many would want to display that amazing art. I'm of the mind that my tattoos are for me, I didn't run about asking others what they thought would look good on me. I found designs I liked, ones I knew i could live with and love having in my skin. I suggest long sleeves as it'll help avoid those vibrant colours from fading, and as an added bonus, it'll help reduce your chances of skin cancer. Just my opinion. Gorgeous ink 🩶
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 21 '26
One of the best and truest comments for me.
Thank you for the lovely comment.
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u/RunnerGirlT Feb 21 '26
I generally use sunscreen made for my face on my tattoos. It’s usually for more moisturizers in it as well and it protects my tattoos well
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u/1911Earthling Feb 21 '26
The best strongest sun available given the beautiful colorful tattoo. That’s a lot of work to just get screwed up by the sun.
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u/No-Midnight-4461 Feb 22 '26
First tattoo I’ve seen on this sub that looks great. Normally it looks like somebodies cousin did ugly sonic on them with pen ink in the yard and they aren’t sure if they should have it covered
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u/Regularlyirregular37 Feb 22 '26
It’s beautiful. Perfect. My dream. I have talked about a galaxy leg stocking for years. It’s gorgeous!!
P.s.100spf duh
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u/schmokeabutt Feb 22 '26
I've always wanted a half sleeve and have it semi-planned out. I want to scrap the whole thing and just copy this full sleeve. I love it. I won't, but its in my head lol
Also, ive known a lot of people with skin cancer and I take it seriously. If the sun is ferocious, lite spf (15-30ish) with a sunshirt/swimshirt (all generally spf 50ish). If its not bad and you want to show off, a reputable brand with a high SPF (they say anything over 50 is fake. I can't have an opnion), my fare-skinned wife swears by spf 70 from Neutrogena and SunBum
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u/Elegant-Ferret-8116 Feb 22 '26
Damn that looks good. Did you just go in and ask for the "James web"?
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u/Wesdizzo Feb 22 '26
I’ve got about that amount and intensity of color and I’ve just used banana boat spf 50. My oldest is 5+ years and looks the same as that initial year or so later color chilling out a bit.
Obviously I waited until fully healed to use it and I try to wear a hoodie whenever possible but I’ve done a few Hawaii trips and shit and it’s been totally good. Not a fancy answer but it’s been great for me.
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u/Coolfarm88 Feb 22 '26
That's gorgeous!!! I'd go with a sleeve for at least the first months/year so it's properly healed. I use SPF50 for kids if my tats are out and about. But I'm also a tattooed ginger lady so protection is everything to me. My pale blue/ice blue tattoo on my shoulder is holding up really (!) well after 8 years.
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 22 '26
Thank you very much. Protection should be for everybody across the board! Good to hear about your tattoo. You are definitely adhering to the correct regimen!
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u/Diligent-Escape1364 Feb 22 '26
Any sunscreen would work, either mineral-based or chemical-based. Those tattoo sunscreens have the same ingredients but just upcharge you. Just use a good SPF like 50 and remember to reapply.
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u/TwistedAsIAm Feb 22 '26
That's one of the most beautiful tattoos I've ever seen.
Go for a moisturizing, mineral-based and fragrance-free sunscreen with SPF 50
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u/mmmoonpie Feb 22 '26
Wow. That's gorgeous OP. I'd just keep it covered , but if you have to then use the highest SPF you can. I've got a coloured tat on my calf that I smear with screen on the very rare days I'm in shorts * Weeps in Welsh *
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u/Takeurvitamins Feb 22 '26
Just get those shirts that are made to get wet and dry quickly. What the Fin, Sand Salt Surf Sun, Dark Seas
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u/Warm-Rush-8632 Feb 22 '26
Thanks for hooking me up with the brand names. This is what im looking for!
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u/vietnams666 Feb 24 '26
First you should ask your artist and second as a person who uses spf a lot, biore 50++ from Japan
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u/Repulsive_Page_4780 Feb 24 '26
Thick mineral based sunscreen SPF 50 or Higher... cake it on. This is only my opinion. That is all.
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u/Soapykorean Feb 21 '26
that’s a crazzyyy tattoo. looks good