Summer Tattoo Care Guide
Getting a tattoo during the warm summer months poses a few challenges when it comes to proper after-care;many of the most enjoyable summer pursuits can be damaging to a new tattoo if you aren't careful. Fortunately, you have the following guide to help you avoid any problems with your new tattoo this summer.
Avoid sun exposure
The number one reason for premature fading of a tattoo is sun exposure before it has healed correctly. During the first two weeks after getting a tattoo, make sure it is not exposed to the sun at all. This means wearing clothing that fully covers the tattoo any time you plan to be outside for more than a few minutes. If this isn't possible, then apply a large bandage over the tattoo, using medical tape to hold it in place. Even a few minutes of direct sun exposure can cause the colors to fade quite a bit when a tattoo is new.
Once the tattoo has healed, you can use sunblock to prevent sun exposure. Use the highest SPF you can find, preferably over 35 SPF, and apply it liberally every hour you are out in the sun. Covering is still the best option, but a high SPF sunblock can allow you to enjoy more comfortable clothing on a hot day.
Skip the pool
This can be a challenge when you get an invite to a pool party or everyone decides to head to the lake right after you get a new tattoo. Unfortunately, spending too much time in the water (including the bath or shower at home) can affect how well the color holds after the tattoo has healed. You need to stay out of the water except for brief bathing for at least the two weeks it takes to heal completely.
Chemicals like chlorine in pools can also affect the color, possibly even resulting in a chemical reaction that changes tattoo colors altogether. Lakes and other natural bodies of water can hold more sinister problems, since a new tattoo is very much an open wound that can allow in bacteria from the water.
Don't forget to moisturize
Even if sun and water aren't part of your summer plans, a combination of outdoor heat and the dry air in an over-air conditioned building can cause your skin to dry out. This in turn affects how well your tattoo heals.
The key to avoiding dry skin issues with your tattoo is to moisturize liberally and often. Many artists have specific tattoo creams or ointments they recommend. If your artist doesn't recommend a specific product, any tattoo lotion or other brand of unscented, unmedicated lotion will work.
For more help, talk with a tattoo artist such as those at SEVENTATTOOSTUDIO.COM .
