In a warm climate like Cali’s, a new tattoo needs three extra precautions while healing: protect it from the sun (cover it with clothing, not sunscreen while it is open), manage sweat by keeping it clean and dry, and do not submerge it in pools, rivers or the sea until it has healed. Above all, follow your artist’s instructions.
Cali has heat and strong sun all year, and that affects how skin heals. These tips complement the instructions we give you at the studio; if anything differs, follow what your artist tells you.
1. The sun: a new tattoo’s worst enemy
Sunlight irritates healing skin and, in the long run, fades the ink. While the tattoo is healing:
- Cover it with loose clothing made of soft fabric when you go out.
- Avoid the strongest sun hours when you can.
- Do not apply sunscreen on open skin: use it only once the tattoo has healed.
After healing, sunscreen is your best ally to keep blacks and greys strong: we explain it in how to protect a tattoo from the sun without damaging the ink.
2. Heat and sweat
Sweat building up on a new tattoo encourages irritation. On the hottest days:
- Keep the area clean and dry, following the washing instructions we gave you.
- Wear loose clothing that does not rub or stick to the tattoo.
- Prefer cool or ventilated spaces.
3. Pools, rivers and the sea: better to wait
In Cali, a weekend at the pool or the river is very common. While the tattoo is healing, do not submerge it: chlorine, river or sea water and bacteria can irritate or infect it. If you have a trip coming up, mention it in the consultation to plan the appointment date.
Once healed, you can swim with no problem: read how long a tattoo takes to heal depending on size and placement.
4. Exercise and the gym
Sweat, friction and stretching can affect a fresh tattoo, especially on arms and legs. In the first days, lower the intensity and avoid exercises that stretch or rub the area.
More details in how to train without stretching a new tattoo.
