Tattoo's and cycling

[Toni]

Quick question...I just got a tattoo on the back of my calf.....I am soooo concerned about it fading in the sun (deep in the heart of Texas!!). What do any of you other tattooed cyclists put on it so it will not fade? Any help would be appreciated. As soon as it heals up a bit more I want to start riding again, but want to make sure I protect it from the sun.

[uk elephant]

I've never been to concerned with my tattoo fading. It's only black anyway. But when I got the tattoo, I was told to keep it well covered in sun-block or at least high spf sunscreen. Being very fair skinned I cover myself in that stuff anyway so my tattoo hasn't faded much over the years (over 10 years now). A friend of mine would always put sunblock only on the tattoo and always had a patch of very pale skin around their tattoo so It's a trade off I guess.

[missymaya]

Definately use a higher end SPF like 30. I have 3 with color and use sunscreen and since there on my shoulders and arm, I wear a short sleeved shirt, which helps also. Nice color!

[bikerHen]

Love the tat! I got a sunscreen roll-on stick at a tanning salon that's just for tattoos. You can control where you apply it better than lotion.

I don't worry about the tats on my calves as much as the ones on my arms. My arms seem to get way more sun than my legs. I don't apply the stick for my daily commutes, but do use it when I'm going to be out on the bike most of the day. bikerHen

[jeannierides]

I can't really help with the fading issue - I don't have any tatoos, but I wanted to say I love yours! My dso has one of BooBoo on his hip.

[coyote]

It will fade over time. I kept mine covered for about 5 years. It was easier in a colder climite. Now I keep sunscreen on it when ever I go out. The tatoo area burns easier, each burn will cause fading.

Cool tatoo by the way. The Ace of Spades is a nice touch.

[Tri Girl]

I just had to say I like your tattoo! Very cool!!