What to know before getting tattooed in summer

Summer can be a tempting time for a new tattoo, but plan the appointment around holidays, swimming and sun exposure. Tattoos can be created in any season; what matters is allowing time and space for careful healing.

Keep a fresh tattoo out of direct sunlight until it has healed. Use suitable loose clothing rather than relying on sunscreen on healing skin.

Use the aftercare product as instructed by your artist and choose breathable
clothing that does not stick or rub.

Once healed, protect exposed tattooed skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, following the product’s directions.

Avoid swimming and soaking until the tattoo is fully healed. Follow your artist’s specific instructions and contact a healthcare professional if you are worried about a reaction or healing.

For more seasonal advice, read “Caring for tattoos in summer”, which explores the subject further.