Summer is on the way, finally! Whether you have just got your first tattoo, or are trying to find free space for another one, you need to make sure that you protect your ink as best you can during these hotter months. Everyone loves to show off their tattoos, but if you want them to keep sharp for as long as possible, you need to look after them Here is how to protect your tattoos over the summer.
Apply Sunscreen
Obviously, you should be wearing sunscreen when it is sunny anyway, but especially on your tattoos. Be sure to apply at least SPF-30 every couple of hours; more often if in direct sunlight such as being on the beach.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the best sunscreens to be using are ‘broad-spectrum’, which protect against both UVB and UVA rays. The higher the SPF, the more protected your tattoos will be, allowing them to look great for longer.
This is especially true for people with fresh tattoos that are still healing. The sun can be very damaging to new tattoos as the skin is still healing and very susceptible to infections. As a result, protecting your tattoos over the summer is crucial.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is a good tip for anyone in summer. You sweat a lot in the heat and lose water, making you dehydrated. The best way to keep your skin and therefore your tattoos healthy is by keeping hydrated.
It is NHS recommended to drink 6 to 8 cups of water a day, but this should be increased during summer months.
Most tattoo artist will tell you to moisturise your tattoo multiple times a day after you get the tattoo. You should continue this on during summer months. The heat, along with other drying environments such as pools, sand and salt water can cause your skin to crack and create a faded look on your tattoos.
Be sure to moisturise frequently every single day, especially if you are getting in and out of a pool or lounging in the sun.
Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
The sun accelerates the aging process of your skin, meaning your tattoos will fade much quicker if you do not protect them. You can apply sunscreen and wear clothing to protect you from the sun, but the best way to avoid having to get your tattoos touched up frequently is by moving out of the sun every so often.
Maybe just be in the sun for an hour or so at a time. Then sit in shade or indoors, allowing yourself time to reapply all lotions and such before going back out there.