Summer Tattoo Tips

As mentioned in previous posts, summer brings an influx of visitors from all over the world to our shop! It is always such a pleasure to be a part of clients’ travel itineraries, however many clients have also been asking us how to best care for their new tattoos amidst summer activities like swimming, visiting the beach, and being outdoors in the summer heat.

Here are some tips on how to look after your piece while enjoying your travels!

Avoid direct sun exposure

Stay in the shade when possible, use a UV blocking umbrella, or keep your new tattoo covered with lightweight pieces of clothing like a t-shirt or linen trousers. This is also helpful because it protects your tattoo from particles like sand or pollen.

Stay out of the water

It is recommended that you do not submerge a new tattoo in water until it is fully healed. A tattoo is an open wound and submerging it can complicate the healing process and increases the risk of infection. This applies to both open water and chlorinated water. So with that said…

Plan ahead!

If you travel plans include a visit to the beach or pool, try to schedule these activities before your tattoo appointment. It is quite common for clients to visit us on the final day of their trip, which we think is a great idea! It also makes for a really relaxing and memorable end to their trip. And finally…

Listen to your artist, use your aftercare products as directed, and stay hydrated :)

Make sure to gently clean your new tattoo with a unscented soap twice a day, pat dry, and use a thin layer of the aftercare product recommended by your artist. Although it is often tempting to use a generous amount of aftercare cream, less is more. It is better to use a small amount 2-3 times a day, rather than a thick layer less frequently. And because healing starts from the inside, staying hydrated not only protects you from heat exhaustion but also encourages fast and healthy healing.

And of course, when in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask your artist any questions that you may have regarding healing or aftercare. It’s just as important to us as it is to you that your tattoo heals beautifully and healthily. We look forward to welcoming you this summer at MamaInk!