Summer is the season of fun, sun, and adventure! While it is tempting to get a tattoo during the warmer months, there are some risks involved that you should consider.

In this article, we will talk about the risks of getting tattoos in the summer and what precautions you can take to minimize them.

Increased Exposure to the Sun

One of the biggest risks of getting a tattoo in the summer is exposure to the sun. After getting a tattoo, it is important to keep it out of the sun for at least two weeks while it heals.

If you get a tattoo during the summer, it can be challenging to avoid exposure to the sun. Even if you cover your tattoo with clothing, you may still be exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays.

If you must go outside in the sun after getting a tattoo, be sure to keep it covered with clothing or a bandage. You should also apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the tattoo and the surrounding area.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Sweating and Swimming

Another risk of getting a tattoo in the summer is sweating and swimming. After getting a tattoo, it is important to keep it clean and dry. However, during the summer months, it can be challenging to keep a new tattoo dry.

Sweating can cause the tattoo to become moist, which can lead to infection. Swimming in the pool or ocean can also increase the risk of infection.

If you get a tattoo in the summer, try to avoid excessive sweating and swimming for at least two weeks while it heals. If you must go swimming, cover your tattoo with waterproof bandages or film to keep it dry.

Increased Risk of Infection

The warm, humid weather in the summer can increase the risk of infection for new tattoos. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, which can make it easier for infections to develop.

If you get a tattoo during the summer, be sure to follow all aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. This may include keeping the tattoo clean and dry, avoiding touching the tattoo, and using a topical antibiotic ointment.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, seek medical attention immediately.

Increased Risk of Keloid Scarring

Keloid scarring is a type of raised scar that can develop after getting a tattoo. Keloids are more common in people with dark skin and can be more difficult to treat than other types of scars.

The risk of keloid scarring can be higher in the summer, as the heat and humidity can cause the skin to produce more collagen, which can lead to raised scars.

If you are prone to keloid scarring, it may be best to avoid getting a tattoo during the summer or to choose a less visible area of the body for the tattoo.

Difficulties Healing

Getting a tattoo is a form of trauma to the skin. During the healing process, the skin may be tender, swollen, and itchy. The healing process can take several weeks to complete.

In the summer, the heat and humidity can make it more difficult for the skin to heal properly.

If you get a tattoo in the summer, take extra precautions to ensure proper healing. This may include keeping the tattoo clean and dry, avoiding tight clothing that rubs against the tattoo, and avoiding excessive sweating and swimming.

More Expensive

The demand for tattoo artists is typically higher in the summer, which can result in higher prices for tattoos. If you are on a budget, you may want to consider getting a tattoo during the off-season when prices may be lower.

Design Fading

Sun exposure can cause tattoos to fade over time. While you may take precautions to protect your tattoo from the sun after getting it, there is no way to completely prevent fading.

If you want your tattoo to look its best for years to come, it may be best to wait until after the summer months to get it.

Lost Opportunity for Other Summer Activities

Getting a tattoo requires a great deal of aftercare, which can limit your involvement in summer activities. For example, you may not be able to swim, kayak, or play outdoor sports while your tattoo heals.

If you want to enjoy all that summer has to offer, it may be best to wait until after the summer months to get a tattoo.

Conclusion

While getting a tattoo in the summer can be tempting, there are several risks involved that you should consider.

These risks include exposure to the sun, sweating and swimming, increased risk of infection, keloid scarring, difficulties healing, higher prices, design fading, and lost opportunities for other summer activities. If you do decide to get a tattoo in the summer, be sure to take extra precautions to protect your tattoo while it heals.