How to Care for Your Tattoo on Summer Holidays
- Avant Art Tattoo
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
You’ve just got a fresh piece of art on your skin, and now you’re off on a summer holiday? Perfect. Except… your tattoo isn’t ready to party just yet.
At Avant Art Tattoo Studio in Chippenham, we want your tattoo to heal beautifully, so it stays as bold and vibrant as the day you left our chair. Whether you’re jetting off to Spain, hiking through Cornwall, or catching sun in your garden, here’s your go-to guide for tattoo aftercare on summer holidays.
☀️ Why Summer Is Tricky for New Tattoos
Heat, sweat, swimming, and sun can all interfere with the healing process. Your skin is an open wound after a tattoo, so exposure to bacteria, UV rays, and friction can lead to:
• Fading or dull colours
• Blurred lines
• Infection
• Scabbing and patchy healing
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
🧴 How to Care for Your Tattoo While Travelling
1. Keep It Out of the Sun
Fresh tattoos and UV rays are not friends. Even healed tattoos will fade with too much sun, but a healing tattoo can literally get sunburned.
What to do:
• Wear loose, breathable clothing over your tattoo
• Sit in the shade where possible
• Do NOT apply sunscreen to a fresh tattoo (wait until it’s fully healed—usually 2-3 weeks)
2. No Swimming—Seriously
Whether it’s the sea, a pool, a hot tub, or a lake, do not soak your tattoo. Water can introduce bacteria, and chlorine or salt can disrupt healing.
Wait at least 2-3 weeks before swimming, even if it looks healed on the surface.
3. Wash Gently, Moisturise Wisely
Keep your tattoo clean, especially in sweaty weather. Use unscented, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel—don’t rub!
Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare balm (we recommend Butterluxe or a professional-grade balm available in our studio).
✈️ Tattoo Aftercare While Flying
If you’re catching flights with a new tattoo:
• Wear loose clothing to avoid rubbing and irritation
• Stay hydrated, planes are dry as hell and dehydration slows healing
• Bring your own tattoo care travel kit (soap, balm, clean towel)
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How Long Before I Can Sunbathe With a Tattoo?
Ideally, wait at least 3-4 weeks before exposing your new tattoo to direct sunlight. Once fully healed, apply high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) every time you go out.
Pro tip: Even older tattoos benefit from sunscreen. It keeps colours vibrant and blackwork crisp for years to come.
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Your summer plans might include various activities that could impact your new tattoo.
For example, if you're planning water sports like surfing or paddle boarding, you'll need to be extra cautious about keeping your tattoo dry and protected from the sun. Even seemingly harmless activities, like hiking or cycling, could lead to friction and irritation.
Consider washing your tattoo thoroughly afterwards.
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Proper aftercare isn't just about the first few weeks; it's about the entire lifespan of your tattoo. Consistent use of sunscreen (SPF 50+ or higher) will protect your tattoo from fading and sun damage. Keeping your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water also contributes to a vibrant and long-lasting tattoo.
Consider moisturising your tattoo with a high-quality lotion regularly, even after it's fully healed.
Book With Confidence at Avant Art Tattoo Studio, Chippenham
Here at Avant Art Tattoo Studio every piece we create is a collaboration, and we’ll always give you detailed aftercare advice tailored to your lifestyle.
Whether you’re booking a custom watercolour piece, a fine-line design, or a bold abstract statement, we’ll make sure it heals just as beautifully as it looks.
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Need More Advice?
Send us an email, we’re always happy to chat aftercare, design ideas, or booking availability.
📍 Avant Art Tattoo Studio, Chippenham, Wiltshire
📸 Follow us on Instagram [@avant.art.tattoo] for healing tips and client stories!
