No, second skin doesn’t protect tattoos from the sun. It’s usually used to heal and protect (from moisture and bacteria) tattoos. It doesn’t contain any sun protection. So if you’re planning to use second skin to avoid sun exposure, I recommend using SPF sunscreen on tattoos.
In this guide, Dr. Mahnoor will tell you why it doesn’t protect your tattoo from the sun, how to protect your tattoo from the sun, and when to apply sunscreen.
Does Second Skin Protect Tattoo From Sun
The main purpose of second skin is to create a moist and protected healing environment, not to block UV rays. Here’s the quote, one of my real patients:
“I applied second skin on my tattoo and went under the UV rays, without any fear. Actually, I’m thinking that my second skin protects my tattoo from sun exposure, but after some time, what I found on my tattoo, see here in the image:”
The adhesive film is a barrier against bacteria and dirt while still allowing the skin to breathe. Note that, if you apply second skin and go under the sun, it still may fade and damage the new ink, and penetrate the skin.
How to protect your tattoo from the sun?
Simple Solution:
For the first 1-4 weeks after the new tattoo, no matter whether you’ve a second skin layer or not, just use loose, soft, and protective clothing to avoid direct sunlight. After this period, when your tattoo has healed properly then you can apply sunscreen to your tattoo.
(I recommend that you avoid direct sunlight, especially during the peak hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., no matter whether your tattoo is old or fresh.) Besides this duration, whenever you go outside, you must follow the sun exposure protection instructions as above. Even though at that time there’s no sunlight, heat still exists that may damage the tattoo.
Why should you not apply sunscreen to a new tattoo?
- Chemical sunscreens can sting and burn
Most sunscreens contain active ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octocrylene. These chemicals can irritate broken skin and cause redness, swelling, or allergic reactions. - Fragrances and preservatives can trigger inflammation
Many sunscreens include alcohols, fragrances, and stabilizers that aren’t suitable for fresh wounds. - Physical barrier disruption
A new tattoo needs oxygen to heal. Sunscreen creates a film that traps moisture and bacteria, which can lead to infection or poor ink retention.
Once healed:
- Choose a broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based).
- Reapply every 2 hours if exposed to sunlight.
Some resources say that you can use sanibalm as both a second skin and sunscreen, but remember that no single product provides 100% pros for 2 things. Although if we talk about saniblam, it’s just a balm to heal a new tattoo, not a good sunscreen, and not a good one as a second skin.
Final Sip
Second skin is just a bandage to protect your new ink from environmental damage. Don’t believe the myth that it can protect your tattoo from sun exposure.
Just follow my advice as your tattoo care expert, and enjoy your new tattoo!
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