SPF 50 – sounds good, right?

From this article you’ll learn:

what SPF actually is and what the number means,
why SPF doesn’t cover everything,
what PPD is and why it’s essential for tattoos,
how to read sunscreen packaging,
what to look for if you really want to protect your tattoo.

SPF – a number that gives a false sense of security

SPF 50? Sounds great, right? That’s what most of us think.
But SPF is only half the story when it comes to sun protection.
The other half – the part we rarely talk about – is crucial for tattoo care.

What does SPF mean?

SPF tells us how much longer we can stay in the sun without getting burned by UVB rays compared to unprotected skin:

SPF 15 = 15 times longer
SPF 50 = 50 times longer

But here’s the catch: SPF only refers to UVB protection – the rays that cause sunburn, redness, and peeling.
SPF says nothing about UVA protection.

UVA – the silent enemy of tattoos

UVA radiation works differently.
It doesn’t cause burns, but it penetrates deep into the skin – right to where your ink sits. And it:

breaks down pigment molecules,
speeds up color fading,
causes outlines to become less defined,
affects skin all year round – even on cloudy days.

That’s why people with tattoos should pay special attention to UVA protection, not just UVB.

PPD – Your Ally in Protecting Tattoo Longevity

PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) is an indicator of UVA protection.

PPD 10 = your skin reacts to UVA 10 times slower
PPD 20+ = very good protection – recommended for tattooed skin

The problem? Most sunscreens don’t list their PPD rating.
Luckily, you can look for the “UVA in a circle” symbol – it means the product also protects against UVA, not just UVB.

What to look for if you want to protect your tattoo:

✅ SPF of at least 50
✅ "UVA in a circle" symbol on the packaging
✅ High PPD (if listed – aim for 20 or more)
✅ Tattoo-friendly formula – gentle and safe for inked skin
✅ Water resistance and easy reapplication

Summary

A tattoo is an investment – in your style, identity, and story.
But even the most beautiful design can lose its quality if you don’t protect it properly from the sun.

Remember – SPF 50 is only part of the protection.
What really protects your ink is a sunscreen with full UVA + UVB spectrum, high SPF, and confirmed PPD protection.

Read the labels. Choose wisely. Care for your ink – seriously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is SPF 50 enough to protect a tattoo?
No. SPF 50 protects only against UVB (sunburn). To protect your pigment, you also need UVA protection – look for the “UVA in a circle” symbol or a listed PPD value.

2. Do all sunscreens with SPF also protect against UVA?
No. Only those labeled “broad spectrum” or with the “UVA in a circle” symbol offer UVA protection.

3. Does Loveink SPF 50 protect against UVA?
Yes. It contains broad-spectrum filters that protect against both UVB and UVA. It’s safe for tattooed skin and features a gentle, natural formula.

4. How often should I apply sunscreen?
Every 2 hours, and always after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Even water-resistant formulas require regular reapplication.

5. Can I use this sunscreen on my face or skin without tattoos?
Absolutely! Loveink SPF 50 was designed with tattoos in mind, but it’s also perfect for everyday use on all skin – lightweight, non-comedogenic, and great for the face too.