The Art of Tattoo Swimming: Discover the Oceanic Ink
– Swimming with a new tattoo can be risky and can lead to infections and damage to the tattoo.
– Water from pools, lakes, and oceans is not sterile and can introduce bacteria to the healing skin.
– Chemicals in pool water, such as chlorine, can affect the color and fading of the tattoo.
– It is recommended to wait until the tattoo is fully healed before swimming, which usually takes two to six weeks or longer.
– Saltwater and chlorine can be harsh on new tattoos and can cause irritation, discomfort, infection, and ink pullout.
– Covering the tattoo with a waterproof bandage while swimming can provide some protection.
– Use a waterproof dressing such as Saniderm and limit the amount of time in the water with the dressing on.
– After swimming, dry the skin, remove the bandage and gently wash the area with soap and water.
– It is advised to keep a fresh tattoo from being submerged and to dry off the tattoo before applying aftercare products.
– During the healing phase, avoid applying sunscreen and instead protect the tattoo from sun exposure with clothing or a bandage.
– Once the skin has fully healed, use sunscreen daily to prevent tattoo pigment fading.
– Holding off from swimming for three months post-tattoo is ideal, but it may not always be feasible.
– Freshwater is fine to splash or wash off with, but it is best to avoid pools and the ocean if possible.
– The article discusses the process of healing a tattoo and suggests consulting a professional if unsure.
– It mentions that if necessary, a waterproof dressing like Saniderm can be applied to protect a new tattoo while swimming.
– It advises to clean the tattoo immediately after swimming and pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
– The article mentions that swimming with a fresh tattoo without precautions is not common but can lead to problems such as bubbling, fading, scarring, and infection.
– It advises seeking medical attention for signs of infection such as continued or worsening redness, spreading redness, hot skin, severe pain, rash or blistering, open sores, smelly discharge or pus, bleeding, fever, and chills.
