The sun, the moon and the stars: people have been looking up at them and telling stories about them for thousands of years. No wonder they're hugely popular as tattoos too. They're simple, recognisable and full of meaning. And they're perfect to get together. In this post you'll learn what a sun and moon tattoo often means, which ideas are out there and where to put them.
What does a sun and moon tattoo mean?
The sun and moon are opposites: day and night, light and dark, warm and cool. Together they often stand for balance and for two things that belong together, even though they're very different. That's why many people get a sun and moon tattoo with someone else: one takes the sun, the other the moon.
Popular combinations:
- Friendship: you're the sun, your best friend is the moon.
- Mother and daughter: each with your own half of the same design.
- Siblings or partners: a shared symbol that always connects you.
What does a moon tattoo mean?
The moon keeps changing shape, yet it always comes back. That's why a moon tattoo often stands for change, intuition and new phases in your life. A row of moon phases, from new moon to full moon, is a much-loved design along your spine, on your forearm or on the back of your neck. A small crescent behind your ear or on your wrist is nice and subtle.
What does a star tattoo mean?
Stars have guided people through the dark for centuries. That's why a star tattoo often stands for hope, dreams and direction. A few tiny stars around your ankle or behind your ear make a popular first tattoo. You can also choose a constellation that means something to you, such as your zodiac sign or the night sky of a special date.
Still deciding whether to go for it? Read 10 life lessons people with tattoos can teach you.
Which style suits it?
- Fine line: thin lines and small details, ideal for tiny stars and a crescent moon.
- Minimalist: a circle and a crescent are all you need. Clean and timeless.
- Black and grey: shading gives the moon depth, craters and character.
- Symbolic: a sun with a little face, a moon surrounded by stars or a mix with other symbols.
Great placements
Matching sun and moon tattoos look great in the same spot on both of you, for example on the wrist, ankle or forearm. Moon phases work well on a long, narrow area like your spine or forearm. Want little stars on your fingers? Read Finger tattoos first, because tattoos there tend to fade quickly.
Tips for getting tattooed together
- Choose together, but for yourself. You'll wear the tattoo for life, so you both need to truly love it.
- Make it your own. The same sun and moon, but each in your own style or placement, can look beautiful too.
- Plan together. Walk in together or book an appointment so you're both up around the same time.
- Don't forget your ID. We tattoo from age 18, also when you come together.
Aftercare for your tattoo
You'll get aftercare advice from us, and everything is in our tattoo aftercare instructions (PDF). In short:
- healing usually takes about 2 weeks;
- touch your tattoo as little as possible, wash it twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry;
- if you like, apply a thin layer of Bepanthen Wound Cream or another suitable tattoo aftercare cream, and don't share your cream with each other; regular Bepanthen only once your tattoo is fully healed;
- no Sterilon or Betadine, no plasters or bandages and no tight or dirty clothing over it;
- while it heals: no swimming pools, hot tubs, natural water, saunas or steam baths (showering is fine) and no sun or tanning beds, even with sunscreen; after that, always use a high SPF;
- extreme redness, swelling, pus or severe pain? Contact your doctor straight away.
Frequently asked questions
Do matching tattoos have to be exactly the same?
No. Two halves of one design, or the same symbol in a different style, makes it even more personal.
Can we come in at the same time?
Yes. Walk in together or book a tattoo appointment in advance and we'll plan it as well as we can.
How much does a sun and moon tattoo cost?
That depends on size, detail and placement. You always get a personal quote. Read how the price of a tattoo is determined.
Ready for your sun, moon or stars?
Piercings Works has been around since 1998 and at Reguliersbreestraat 46, right in the heart of Amsterdam, since 2004. We hold a GGD licence, have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages. We tattoo from age 18. Walk in and talk through your idea with our artist.