The 13 Best Sunscreens For Tattoos, According to Dermatologists

If you're set on a dedicated tattoo sunscreen, dermatologists and tattoo artists alike recommend this one by Mad Rabbit. It's expensive, yes—that's the downside of tattoo sunscreens. But you can be positive it's safe for the ink you cherish. The broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen not only shields those UVA and UVB rays, but it also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, fatty acids, and potent antioxidants to keep your tattoo looking better longer.

Ask just about any dermatologist to recommend a sunscreen—for tattoos or otherwise—and this is the lotion they'll recommend. The non-greasy formula is suitable for all skin types and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. And although it's a broad spectrum SPF 50 formula that offers plenty of protection, it only contains 9 percent zinc oxide, so it won't leave as much of a white cast as some other formulas.

Sticks are great for tattoos, because they allow for highly targeted application. Toss them in your bag, and you'll have SPF at the ready at any time of the day—no need to get your fingertips all greasy, either. This water-resistant option offers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection, is water-resistant on skin, and even boasts cocoa butter to keep skin hydrated—also important for tattoos.

When it comes to protecting your ink, more is... well, more. And this super-sized pump beloved by dermatologists like Mona Gohara, MD will keep you loaded up all summer long. The water- and sweat-resistant UPF 50 formula goes on smooth and won't leave a white cast on skin, marring the vibrancy of the design you want to show off.

If your tat is located in a hard-to-reach spot like your back, you'll appreciate the convenience of a spray. Debra Jaliman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, says this spray is a good option, because it contains 14.5 percent zinc oxide, as well as soothing aloe and moisturizing shea butter and glycerin. It also contains 70 percent organic ingredients and is water-resistant for 80 minutes.

This sunscreen may smell like a tropical island, but it's entirely vegan and free of synthetic fragrances and other potential irritants, making it perfectly safe for those with tattoos. It's hardworking, too. The SPF 50 lotion protects against both UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Did we mention it's reef safe as well?

Despite what the name says, this sun lotion isn't just for babies—adults can benefit from the gentle formula, too. Though it's a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 50 shield and a whopping 23.4 percent zinc oxide, it's free from potentially harmful and irritating ingredients like parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, and more.

The main reason dermatologists are more apt to recommend standard sunscreens over sunscreens specifically-formulated for tattoos is price. And this drugstore pick is proof you don't need to fall for the markup. The mineral sunscreen is readily available at a fair price, yet is lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and offers SPF 30 protection. Check, check, check, and check again.

Mineral sunscreens come highly recommended by dermatologists because they act as a physical shield on the skin, but the downside is that, because of this, they tend to leave white residue behind. Not this one, though. Its clear formula is so advanced that it disappears on darker skin tones and tattoos. It's also infused with jojoba and avocado to help hydrate and nourish skin—another thing people with tattoos should be mindful of.

Whether you have sensitive skin or concerns about the environment (or both!), you'll love that this formula is about as clean as you can get. Still, it provides broad spectrum UV protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It's also water-resistant and has unique packaging that clues you in when it's time to slather up—when the bottle changes colors, it means harmful UV rays are present.

This sport stick may see you through all kinds of hot weather activities from swimming to hiking, but it's the hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula is one of the most suitable for sensitive skin. It doesn't contain any of the bad stuff—parabens, sulfates, phthalates, oils, or fragrances. Only the good stuff: SPF 50+ powered by 13.5 percent zinc oxide.

This SPF 50 broad spectrum sunscreen does so much more than your average lotion. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E to nourish skin and aloe to hydrate and soothe. And although it's easy to rub in, the water-resistant pick isn't at all greasy.