before and after sun damaged tattoo

How Long After A Tattoo Can You Swim?

If you’re someone who loves tattoos, then it’s likely that you’ve wondered how long after a tattoo can you swim. 

After all, you don’t want to risk ruining your brand new ink by jumping in the pool or ocean too soon! In this article, we’ll answer this question and provide you with everything you need to know about swimming after getting a tattoo.

Why you need to wait to swim after getting a new tattoo

Infection Risk

During the initial healing period, the tattooed area is essentially an open wound. Swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water exposes the tattoo to bacteria, germs, and other pathogens that can increase the risk of infection. Infections can lead to complications, scarring, and a less satisfactory healing outcome.

Chemicals

Pools and hot tubs often contain chlorine and other chemicals that can be harsh on a healing tattoo. These chemicals can irritate the skin, cause itching, and potentially affect the tattoo’s appearance and longevity.

Moisture

Tattoos need to breathe and go through a natural healing process that involves scabbing and peeling. Prolonged exposure to moisture from swimming can disrupt this process, potentially leading to color fading, patchiness, or an uneven healing pattern.

Compromised Immune System

While your tattoo is healing, your body’s immune system is working to repair the damaged skin. Engaging in activities like swimming can divert your immune system’s resources away from the healing process, potentially slowing down recovery.

Color Preservation

Immersion in water, especially in natural bodies of water, can wash away some of the tattoo’s pigment and affect its vibrancy. To preserve the tattoo’s color and appearance, it’s best to avoid swimming until it has fully healed.

When Can You Swim After Getting A Tattoo?

The answer is that you should wait at least 2-3 weeks before swimming after getting a tattoo, during which the tattooed area goes through various stages of recovery, including scabbing, peeling, and settling into the skin. Swimming, especially in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water, can expose the tattoo to bacteria, chemicals, and prolonged moisture, increasing the risk of infection, color fading, and other complications. To protect your new tattoo, it’s essential to follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions diligently and avoid swimming until you receive their clearance that the tattoo is fully healed and sealed.

How To Take Care Of Your Tattoo Before and after Swimming

If you do decide to go for a swim after your tattoo has fully healed, make sure you follow these tips to properly care for your tattoo:

Before

  • Gently clean the tattooed area with mild, fragrance-free, and non-alcoholic soap.
  • Apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer to your tattoo as directed by your tattoo artist.
  • Avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds.
  • Consider using a waterproof, transparent, and breathable bandage specifically designed for covering tattoos before swimming.
  • Try to minimize the duration of your swim, as prolonged exposure to water can still pose risks to the healing tattoo.

After

  • Rinse your tattoo with clean, cool water to remove any chlorine or salt.
  • Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel.
  • Apply a moisturizer or ointment to your tattoo to keep it hydrated.
  • Avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 24 hours after swimming.

What should you do if you Already got a Tattoo Wet?

While it’s not ideal, minor exposure to water is unlikely to cause significant harm if you take the appropriate steps to minimize potential damage. Begin by gently patting the tattoo dry with a clean, disposable paper towel or tissue, avoiding any rubbing or friction. This will help remove excess moisture and contaminants without disrupting the healing process.

After drying the tattoo, ensure you clean it gently with lukewarm water if available and then pat it dry again. Following this, reapply the recommended tattoo-specific ointment or moisturizer as outlined in your aftercare instructions. Keep a close watch on the tattoo for any signs of infection or irritation, such as increased redness or swelling. By promptly addressing the situation and maintaining your regular aftercare routine, you can help ensure that the healing process continues as smoothly as possible, even after an accidental exposure to water.

FAQs 

  1. Can I go in a hot tub or sauna after getting a tattoo? No, it’s recommended to avoid hot tubs and saunas for at least 2-3 weeks after getting a tattoo as the heat and moisture can increase the risk of infection.
  2. What should I do if my tattoo gets wet before it’s fully healed? If your tattoo gets wet before it’s fully healed, gently pat it dry with a clean towel and apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer to keep it hydrated.
  3. Can I swim with a waterproof bandage covering my tattoo? Yes, using a waterproof adhesive bandage can be a good way to protect your tattoo while swimming, but make sure to change the bandage frequently and follow proper care instructions.
  4. Is it safe to swim in a pool or ocean after getting a tattoo if I have sensitive skin? If you have sensitive skin, you may need to take extra precautions when swimming after getting a tattoo. Talk to your tattoo artist and dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
  5. Can I shave over my tattoo if I want to swim? It’s generally recommended to wait until your tattoo is fully healed before shaving over it. Shaving too soon can irritate your skin and increase the risk of infection.

final Takeaway

Getting a tattoo is an exciting and personal decision, but it’s important to take proper care of your tattoo during the healing process. Waiting at least 2-3 weeks before swimming after getting a tattoo can help prevent complications and ensure that your tattoo looks its best for years to come. Remember to follow proper care instructions and talk to your tattoo artist and dermatologist if you have any concerns or questions about swimming after getting a tattoo.

12 Best Tattoo Numbing Creams to Help You Relieve the Pain

Tattoos are a fantastic way to express oneself. But the thought of having needles bore into your skin may prevent you from producing those coveted works of art. In this circumstance, the best tattoo numbing creams can be of assistance. We frequently hear tales of people arriving at the tattoo parlor and canceling the appointment after hearing the ink gun. Some clients describe getting tattooed as a horror story, which makes us question whether the experience is worthwhile. But trust us, things will get easier when you know these 12 best tattoo numbing creams.

Tattoo Goo Tattoo Balm

This balm is one of the best options you can imagine because it is made with the best mixture of humectants, essential oils, and premium natural components for moisturization, antibacterial action, anti-oxidation, and stimulation of circulation. By keeping the area lubricated and wet, it makes a tattoo softer and encourages quicker healing. Additionally, it includes a small, handy tin that makes applying it whenever necessary a breeze. Although this balm comes highly recommended, if you’re looking for a product that lasts a long time, consider elsewhere.

Redemption Tattoo Care

A ground-breaking solution designed specifically with tattoo artists in mind is called Redemption. It is notable for being the first and only petroleum substitute to obtain USDA certification, making it a dependable and environmentally responsible option. Redemption imitates the appearance and texture of petroleum-based products whilst being entirely natural. Due to its adaptability, it can be used both before and after tattooing. Redemption offers calming relaxation during the tattoo procedure, and post-tattoo application promotes recovery.

Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare

The original high-end tattoo aftercare product for both new and existing tattoos is called Hustle Butter.It is safe for most users because it contains only the best components, such as Shea, Mango, Aloe butter, Coconut, Sunflower, and Rice Bran oils, as well as Rosemary oleoresin, green tea, Vitamin E Complex, Mint Arvenis Essential Oil, and the essence of Papaya and Coconut. However, for smooth application, the texture needs body heat to dissolve.

Urban ReLeaf TATTOO SKIN SILK

This all-natural Tattoo Silk will NOT clog pores or pull out your new ink, unlike lanolin and petroleum-based lotions. This balm allows your skin to breathe while healing, protecting, and healing swiftly. These natural silk balms for rejuvenation contain raw shea butter and essential oils. The most fragile, damaged, and itchy skin is softened, replenished, restored, and repaired with natural ingredients. There are many more options available to you if you have a sensitive nose because this cream doesn’t have the best scent.

Dr. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever

Dr. Numb’s 5% Lidocaine Cream is one of the strongest tattoo numbing creams for tattoos and piercings you’ll find over the counter and is a favorite among tattoo aficionados. This medication is quite good at reducing stings on your skin with a small amount, making it also very cost-effective. Additionally, this composition has a remarkably long-lasting power of 3 to 4 hours when compared to similar goods. Additionally, the lotion absorbs into your skin like a dream, making it simpler for your tattoo artist to work more precisely. But since there isn’t much product, a little won’t get you very far.

Welmate Lidocane Numbing Cream

This pain-relief cream from Welmate boasts wonderful moisturizing qualities that your skin will adore in addition to its skin-numbing advantages. The solution not only reduces localized pain from needling or threading, but also muscle pain in places including the lower back, shoulder, knees, and arms. Additionally, you can apply it to ease small burns, bruises, stings, and anorexia. You don’t have to wait for very long before getting tattooed because the effects of this formula start working in less than 10 minutes. 

MAXOCAINE LIDOCAINE MAXIMUM STRENGTH PAIN RELIEVING ROLL-ON

This Maxocaine tattoo numbing cream has a disappearing formula that enables your tattoo artist to work precisely. The cream’s roll-on dispenser makes application hygienic and hassle-free. The potent combination, in addition to needling methods, is beneficial in reducing pain from hip pain, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, aching muscles, sports injuries, and more. The lotion calms and energizes your skin to get it ready for tattooing. It contains menthol, arnica, and aloe extracts. When you apply it, there may be a slight tingling, but that’s completely normal.

INKED INSPIRED NUMBING CREAM

This tattoo-numbing cream from Inked is another product on the list that absorbs quickly, so you don’t have to wait around for very long before getting inked. The mixture makes use of the anti-inflammatory properties of arnica, emu oil, lidocaine, and all three of these, which work wonders to soothe pain and nourish the skin. Depending on the dosage and the degree of the needle procedure, the pain-relieving benefits of this medicine should persist for 1-2 hours. 

Zensa Numbing Cream

Zensa Numbing Cream is a great option if you’re seeking the ideal over-the-counter numbing cream. The vegan and cruelty-free recipe of this FDA-approved product contains 5% lidocaine and vitamin E to help alleviate discomfort. It is also hypoallergenic and appropriate for use near the eye area. Additionally, without blood constrictors, your tattoo’s ink color won’t deteriorate or change with time. Users have 2 to 8 hours of relief from the discomfort related to having tattoos, depending on the amount of coverage required during application (which can be reapplied).

TKTX Numbing Cream

The TKTX cream has a ton of amazing components, unlike other numbing creams. Each active component functions to reduce pain, edema, and inflammation after getting a tattoo or getting a body piercing. The cream can also be used to relieve pain during microneedling, laser tattoo removal, permanent cosmetics, or hair removal. The fact that this cream is NOT healthy for those who have heart disease, high blood pressure, are pregnant or nursing, or are allergic to any of the aforementioned substances must be emphasized despite the fact that it works wonders. 

Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream

While obtaining the tattoo of your dreams, this over-the-counter numbing lotion will ease all the discomfort, agony, burning, itching, and soreness. This numbing cream’s potent 5% lidocaine concentration starts working within two to three minutes, achieves its peak within twenty to twenty-five minutes, and lasts for an additional hour. This tattoo pain relief cream eases the process and contains genuine aloe vera, vitamin E, lecithin, and allantoin. This water-based, non-greasy anesthetic cream is simple to use, suitable for all skin types, and non-greasy. It also includes a secure child-resistant cap, which is an added safety feature. Additionally, the product doesn’t have any artificial or dangerous substances. Some people, however, claimed that it adhered to their skin like glue and dried.

Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel

Because of the discomfort, the majority of us put off getting that long-awaited tattoo. For a positive experience, this product was created with the tattoo artist and the customer in mind. This long-lasting tattoo numbing gel makes your skin numb for around two hours, allowing you to consider getting that large tattoo you’ve been wanting. Aloe vera and other effective botanical extracts are combined to effectively alleviate skin inflammation and redness. Additionally, it speeds up tattoo healing and is suitable for all skin types—even the most delicate. This clear gel’s non-oily formulation ensures that there won’t be any mess or stains. It’s quite costly when compared to most products on the market.

One of the primary objections to tattoos is their discomfort. We’re all perplexed about this idea at the end of the day because no one appreciates pain, but many people think that beauty equals anguish. With our suggestions, you won’t have to worry about any pain whatsoever when getting a tattoo.