Tattoos are a form of self-expression that requires proper care and attention to maintain their vibrancy and longevity. With the arrival of summer, it becomes crucial to pay extra attention to your tattoo, as exposure to sunlight, heat, and increased physical activities can impact its appearance and health. In this article, we will cover some essential tips on how to look after your tattoos, focusing specifically on summer care. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tattoos remain vibrant, protected, and beautifully preserved throughout the sunny season.
One of the most crucial aspects of summer tattoo care is protecting your ink from harmful UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can cause your tattoo to fade, blur, or even develop sunburn-like symptoms. To shield your tattoo, follow these steps:
Before heading out in the sun, generously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, preferably 50. Make sure to reapply every few hours, especially if you’re swimming or perspiring.
Whenever possible, cover your tattoo with lightweight clothing that provides a physical barrier against UV rays. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your skin.
In the scorching summer heat, it’s vital to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised, as it directly impacts the health of your tattoo. Dehydrated skin can cause ink to fade and lose its vibrancy. Follow these tips to maintain healthy, moisturised skin:
Hydration starts from within, so make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water to keep your skin supple and help your tattoo retain its colours.
Regularly moisturise your tattooed skin with a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturiser or a tattoo-specific aftercare product. Apply it gently after washing or as needed to prevent dryness and maintain vibrant ink.
During the summer, sweat and friction can pose a challenge to your tattoo’s healing process and overall appearance. To minimise potential issues, follow these recommendations:
Try to avoid prolonged exposure to intense heat or high humidity, as excessive sweat can cause irritation and damage existing tattoos or hinder the healing process of new ones. Seek shade, and use fans or air conditioning whenever possible.
Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimise friction and allow your tattoo to breathe. Tight or abrasive fabrics can irritate your skin and potentially damage your tattoo.
While it’s fine to get tattooed in any season, tattoo aftercare during the summer has more elements to consider and you should think about how getting tattooed may impact your favourite summer activities until it has fully healed. It is crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure proper healing. Additionally, these tips will help promote a successful healing process and maintain the appearance of your new tattoo throughout the summer and beyond.
A fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound, and submerging it in water immediately can cause fading and hinder the healing process, potentially leading to infections. Whether it’s chlorinated pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water like oceans, rivers, or lakes, they all present risks. Open water harbours bacteria that can result in infections and scarring, while chlorinated pools, spas, and hot tubs contain harsh chemicals that can cause pain, swelling and peeling. It’s crucial to avoid exposing your healing tattoo to any water sources.
Newly-inked tattoos are especially vulnerable to sunburn and harmful UV rays. Until your tattoo has completely healed, you cannot apply sunscreen, so your only option is to avoid direct sun exposure. Stay in the shade whenever possible or utilise an umbrella for added protection. Even better, cover your tattoo with clothing that has built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to provide an extra layer of defence. Moreover, covering your tattoo with protective clothing during the summer will also safeguard it against sand and other particles that may irritate the skin and potentially lead to infections.
Just because it’s the summer, it doesn’t mean you have to hide away and ignore your favourite activities, but we do advise taking precautions to avoid infection and sunburn. Your tattoos are precious works of art that deserve proper care, so it is important to look after them. If you have any further questions, check out our FAQ page for further advice and tips, or if you are looking to get tattooed by any of the artists at No Regrets, get in touch to speak to one of our friendly tattoo consultants.ÂÂ
