With the arrival of good weather, a key question arises for those with tattoos: how does the sun affect my tattooed skin? There are many beliefs on this subject, but not all of them are true. Here we debunk 5 common myths and give you real recommendations to keep your ink looking vibrant.
1. “If it has already regenerated, there is no harm in sunbathing.”
❌ FALSE
Even if your tattoo is completely healed, the sun is still its silent enemy. UV radiation can alter the pigments, causing them to lose intensity and leaving the skin dry. Over time, your tattoo may look duller, blurrier, and aged.
Always protect your tattoo, no matter how long ago you got it.
2. “If my tattoo is black, it doesn't need sunscreen.”
❌ FALSE
All ink colors are affected by sunlight. Blacks tend to turn grayish and lose definition, while bright colors (such as reds, greens, or blues) fade even faster.
Your tattoo, whatever its color, needs adequate sun protection to preserve its intensity, and the best option is Bepanthol® Tattoo Sun Protection Cream SPF 50+.


3. “The sun can damage your tattoo even years after it has been done.”
✅ TRUE
It doesn't matter if your tattoo is 6 months old or 6 years old: constant sun exposure degrades the pigments over time. It's a slow but inevitable process if you don't protect your skin.
Protection should be a lifelong habit, not just during the initial healing process.
4. “I don't need sunscreen if I'm in the shade.”
❌ FALSE
Being under an umbrella does not mean you are safe. UV radiation reflects off surfaces such as water, sand, or even concrete, and can reach your skin indirectly.
Even in the shade, apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo.

5. “An old tattoo no longer needs special care.”
❌ FALSE
Tattoos age, just like skin. Over time, they can lose definition, fade, or become distorted if they are not properly moisturized and protected from the sun. Even tattoos that look fine may be deteriorating without you noticing. Keep your skin moisturized and protected all year round so that your tattoo continues to look sharp and defined.
Remember that tattooed skin needs adequate sun protection to preserve its intensity. We recommend Bepanthol® Tattoo Sun Protection Cream SPF 50+. Its antioxidant formula is quickly absorbed without leaving any residue. Highly water-resistant, it helps strengthen the tattooed skin's barrier, keeping the tattoo colors vibrant.
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