Many people ask whether or not it’s a good idea to get a tattoo in the summer. The truth is there are a lot of elements that can play into the answer. 

Tattoo Portfolio by Reko – Creative Ink Tattoo Studio

Sun

The sun plays a huge role in skin quality, and therefore, tattoo quality. Tattoos are ultimately wounds in your skin. That makes them susceptible to damage if not healed properly. Heavy exposure to sun causes dryness, premature aging, burns/peeling, and cracking of the skin. If your skin has been recently sunburned or heavily tanned, it is not the best time to get a tattoo. Similarly, if you have a new tattoo, you may want to push your beach vacation out a few weeks. Clients who know they will be out in the sun all summer often choose to schedule their tattoo appointments between Fall and Spring. To keep your tattoo in the best condition and increase its longevity, you will need to care for your skin prior to and following your appointment. Ongoing sun protection such as covering your tattoos, or using a natural SPF sun lotion are also highly recommended. 

Water

Drinking water can support the healthy healing and good quality of a tattoo by keeping your skin hydrated. Swimming, however, can be detrimental to a new tattoo. Natural bodies of water contain bacteria that can enter the wounded skin, causing infection and inflammation which impede the healing process. Pools and hottubs can also be dangerous because they contain strong chemicals which can irritate your tattoo and cause it to heal poorly. You should avoid fully submerging your tattoo in any water until it is fully healed. 

Lifestyle and Routine

Having a healthy lifestyle and skin care routine at baseline can improve the likelihood of your tattoo healing well in the summer months. Some important things to include in your regular routine are:

• Exfoliating
• Moisturizing
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Staying hydrated
• Eating nourishing foods
• Using SPF sunscreen everyday
• Keeping skin covered from the sun when possible. See foods for healthy skin.

So…can I get a tattoo in the summer? 

The answer is yes. But a more important question would be, “should I get a tattoo in the summer?” The answer to this will be based on your own routine and lifestyle. If you are unsure about whether you should get a tattoo during the summer, you should talk with your artist ahead of time to make an informed decision. Feel free to contact us with any questions about your upcoming tattoo!

References:

Foods for Healthy, Supple Skin (webmd.com)