She points out that the final stage of the healing process is often peeling, or shedding. If there’s no more peeling, scabbing, or peeling, your tattoo is likely healed enough to swim.
What happens if I go swimming while my tattoo is healing?
According to Dr. Murphy-Rose, the process of getting a tattoo involves intentionally damaging the skin (think of it like an open wound), which can provide an entry point for microorganisms that can cause infections. produces. “Water can be contaminated, increasing the risk of tattoo healing,” she says. “Infections can increase the risk of scarring, ruin the tattoo, and slow healing.”
Dr. Shirazi agrees. “Pools, lakes, and ocean water carry bacteria that can invade newly tattooed skin,” she adds, adding that salt and chlorinated water can be irritating and slow the healing process of a new tattoo. It added that there is a possibility of delay.
Valentine added that swimming can also affect the final look of the tattoo. “Water can leach out some of the ink as the tattoo heals, which can make it less vivid,” she says.
What should I do if I accidentally submerge my new tattoo in water?
If for some reason you end up soaking your tattoo in water and it gets wet, there are steps you can take that may help. Dr. Shirazi recommends cleaning with a mild detergent, patting dry, and applying Aquaphor or CeraVe healing ointment. This can be helpful, but if you notice any signs of infection, see a dermatologist for treatment as soon as possible.
How can I make my swimming tattoo waterproof?
Considering the effects, it’s best to avoid it completely until it’s fully healed.But if you really MustDr. Shirazi suggests applying a thin layer of an occlusive ointment, such as Vaseline, followed by a 3M Nexcare Tegaderm dressing, a sterile, waterproof bandage that adheres completely to the skin.
Valentine also recommends using a waterproof, second-skin bandage. (She suggests Dermshield by Recovery.) But the most important thing she brought up is to make sure there are no gaps and the bandage is tight. completely Sealed with no bubbles or openings along the edges. “Even the smallest holes can allow water to enter, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and increasing the likelihood of infection,” she says.
“After you’ve finished swimming, remove the bandage and gently wash the area with soap and water,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “This will help wash away any potential contaminants from the bandage and clean the area.”
Dr. Shirazi emphasizes that there is no need to keep the wound covered all the time. “Bandages contain adhesives, which can cause skin irritation if left in place for too long.” She says it’s best to give the wound time to air (by doing so) (so that the skin does not become too moist and macerated).
TL;DR
Skip pool time until your tattoo is fully healed. “Carefully follow the aftercare instructions given to you by your tattoo artist,” says Valentine, and also consider when you get your tattoo. According to Valentine, summer used to be the busiest season for her shop, but “recently, more and more people are getting tattoos during other seasons because they want to enjoy the summer and don’t want to get a soothing tattoo.” It is said that If you get a tattoo, she says, “always keep it clean and moisturize with unscented lotion.” “Please don’t touch, scratch, or pinch!”
